Sunflower Oil-based Oleogel as Fat Replacer in Croissants: Textural and Sensory Characterisation

Abstract Croissants are made using solid fats that predominantly contain saturated fatty acids and trans fatty acids. In this study, an oleogel consisting of sunflower oil structured with hydroxypropyl methylcellulose was used as a conventional fat replacer in puff pastry thus improving its nutritional profile. Oleogel (OG)-shortening (SH) blends were prepared as a fat replacer for partial (50, 60, 70%) and full shortening (100%) substitution. These replacements implied a reduction of up to 45% of saturated fat and an increase of up to 47% of unsaturated fat, especially monounsaturated fatty acids. Physical characterisation was conducted using texture profile analysis and penetration tests to evaluate the oleogel effect on a baked croissant matrix structure. Sensory analysis was also performed to evaluate the organoleptic properties of the croissant. Shortening replacement using oleogel resulted in croissants with lower saturated fat content, lower bite firmness, and a texture profile similar to croissants made with commercial shortening. The presence of oleogel up to 100% did not contribute negatively to the firmness or springiness of the croissants, although they became chewier and more cohesive as the oleogel increased. In terms of sensory perception, the SH50:OG50 croissant sample was the most similar to the solid fat control. The use of sunflower oil-cellulose-based oleogel was suitable for the formulation of puff pastry products with a healthier fat profile while maintaining the physical and sensory characteristics of conventional croissants.