The aroma of buttery croissants mingling with freshly brewed espresso. A lineup of macarons adding a pop of color to the counter. When it comes to cafes, coffee is only half the story.
While a great cup of joe may draw guests in, it’s often the pastry pairings that keep them lingering and coming back for more.
For cafe owners, French pastries offer the perfect blend of indulgence and sophistication. From flaky classics like pain au chocolat to elegant tarts, these baked goods are timeless crowd-pleasers. And thanks to ready-to-bake solutions, offering them is easier than ever—no rolling pins or experienced pastry chefs required.
Ready to take your menu beyond the brew? Let’s explore the best café pastries that pair perfectly with every cup.
No cafe menu is complete without the iconic croissant. This buttery, flaky pastry is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether enjoyed plain or filled with cheese, ham, or almond paste, croissants are a crowd-pleaser for customers seeking both sweet and savory options.
Pairing suggestion: A warm croissant is the perfect match for a frothy latte or a bold Americano, balancing richness with a satisfying crunch.
Pain au chocolat (chocolate croissant) is a must-have for those with a sweet tooth. These pastries combine the buttery layers of a croissant with rich, dark chocolate nestled inside.
The result? A decadent treat that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon bite.
Pairing suggestion: Serve alongside a mocha or hot chocolate for a truly indulgent experience.
From fruity options like blueberry and apple to cheese or custard fillings, there’s a Danish for everyone. Their delicate layers and vibrant toppings make them delicious and visually appealing — a great way to catch a customer’s eye at the counter.
Check out seven variations of Danish twists from our chefs >>
Pairing suggestion: A fruit Danish complements a light, floral tea, while a cheese Danish pairs well with a smooth flat white.
Though traditionally associated with British tea time, scones have earned a spot on cafe menus worldwide. Their slightly crumbly texture and subtle sweetness make them a fantastic canvas for jams, clotted cream, or butter.
Offer them in classic flavors like plain or blueberry, or go bold with cranberry orange, cheese, or pumpkin variations.
Pairing suggestion: Pair with a strong black tea or a creamy cappuccino for a harmonious balance of flavors.
Delicate, colorful, and irresistibly sweet, macarons are a luxurious menu addition. These meringue-based confections, sandwiched with buttercream, ganache, or jam, come in a variety of flavors to delight every customer.
Pairing suggestion: Enjoy macarons with a light jasmine tea or an espresso to balance their sweetness.
French tarts are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Options like fruit tarts topped with fresh berries, rich chocolate tarts, or savory tarts are perfect for customers looking for a more robust pastry.
Pairing suggestion: A tart pairs beautifully with a bold French roast or a cappuccino, complementing their rich and tangy flavors.
Cafés that balance their menu with both sweet and savory items can attract a broader audience and encourage repeat visits throughout the day. While classic pastries like croissants and pain au chocolat are staples for morning coffee runs, offering savory options satisfies diverse preferences. Plus, it can ensure guests think of your café for brunch and lunch—not just breakfast.
Quiche is an excellent savory option to complement pastries. Its rich, creamy filling and buttery crust align with the indulgent feel of a pastry menu, while offering a distinct, satisfying alternative. Quiches are highly customizable, allowing you to showcase seasonal ingredients or signature flavors. For inspiration, consider a classic Quiche Lorraine with smoky bacon and gruyère, a vegetarian spinach and feta quiche, or a gourmet mushroom and truffle quiche.
Adding popular coffee shop pastries to your menu doesn’t have to mean investing in a full-scale bakery operation. Ready-to-bake pastries provide a solution that combines convenience with premium quality.
Some of the benefits are:
French pastries aren’t just menu items — they’re a surefire way to elevate your cafe or coffee shop experience, delighting customers with a sensory experience they won’t forget.
With ready-to-bake options from Bon Patissier, you can offer premium pastries without the complexity of scratch baking. Browse our product line here, and get everything you need to go beyond the brew.