Name: Twice-Baked Almond Croissants
Cook time: 2 1/2 hr
Total time: 20 hr
Yield: Makes 8 pastries
Ingredients: 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup water; 1 vanilla bean; 1/4 cup fresh orange juice; 1/2 cup natural almonds (2 1/2 ounces); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup almond paste (not marzipan; 2 ounces), cut into pieces; 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon rum; 1/2 teaspoon pure almond extract; 8 (day-old) croissants; 3/4 cup sliced natural almonds (3 ounces), toasted; Confectioners sugar for dusting; a pastry brush, parchment paper

Brushed with sweet orange syrup, filled with almond cream, and covered with toasted almonds, even the most run-of-the-mill store-bought croissants are transformed into something heavenly.

Cooks' note:

•Orange syrup and almond cream may be made, and almonds may be toasted, 1 day ahead and chilled, covered.

Recipe notes

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Our Favorite French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Golden Mushroom Soup With Orzo & a Pat of Butter

This is the type of soup that, at first glance, might seem a little…unexciting. But you’re underestimating the power of mushrooms, which do the heavy lifting.

Crème Anglaise

The silky French vanilla sauce that goes with everything.

Smashed Broccoli Pasta

A feel-good dinner designed to cram a ton of veg in each serving.

Butternut Squash–Kale Salad With Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette

Round out these autumn greens with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pepitas, and a shower of Parmesan.

Mascarpone Cheesecake

An extra-silky filling (no water bath needed!) and a smooth sour cream topping make this the ultimate cheesecake.