These Cult-Favorite Croissants Have Fewer Carbs and More Protein. But Do They Taste Like the Real Thing?

Happy National Croissant Day to all who celebrate! That’s right, January 30 is dedicated to recognizing these flaky, buttery pastries that are just as good on their own as they are stuffed into a breakfast or lunch sandwich. Unfortunately, a classic croissant doesn’t exactly have a reputation for being a health food. Many come in close to 300 calories and are loaded with fat, which makes them more of a once-in-a-blue-moon treat than an everyday staple for health-conscious eaters.

Sure, National Croissant Day definitely warrants an appropriate excuse to enjoy them. But first, let us put you onto a healthier twist on croissants that you can actually enjoy more frequently: Hero croissants. I tried them myself and was pleasantly surprised. Each croissant contains 2g net carbs, 0g sugar, 20g fiber, 10g protein, and just 170 calories. And, most importantly, they actually taste good.

Hero, the fast-growing better-for-you bread brand, has become something of a cult favorite in the wellness world. Along with their croissants, which recently hit a 19,000-person waitlist, they also offer bagels, biscuits, tortillas, and sliced bread.

Related: The Healthiest Bread You Can Buy, According to Sports Dietitians

By replacing traditional flour with a blend of plant-based fibers and proteins sourced from wheat and fava beans, Hero’s croissants manage to deliver the look, smell, and pull-apart texture you’d expect from a bakery croissant, but with a dramatically improved nutrition profile.

Hero was kind enough to send some croissants over for us to try, and they certainly didn’t disappoint. I toasted one and turned it into a turkey sandwich, and I’m still thinking about it. They’re flaky and satisfying, but don't leave you feeling bloated off of butter. They also fit well into a wide range of diets, from low-carb and keto to protein-conscious diets.

The main drawback is the price. A subscription for a six-pack is currently listed at $36.99, which may seem steep compared to standard bakery croissants. Still, for the croissant lovers prioritizing macros, fiber intake, or blood sugar control, it may be worth carving out room in your food budget!

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