Easy Homemade Croissants – Flaky & Buttery

why make this recipe

Making croissants at home can feel like a journey into French baking. They are light, flaky pastries perfect for breakfast or a snack. With a little patience, you can create delicious croissants that impress everyone. This recipe is easy to follow and brings the wonderful taste of homemade pastries right to your kitchen.

how to make croissant

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk, warm
• 1/2 cup water, warm
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, cold
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Directions:

1. Start by mixing the warm milk, warm water, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s foamy.
2. In another bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, then shape it into a ball. Cover it and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
4. While the dough rises, prepare the butter. Place the cold butter between two pieces of parchment paper and pound it into a flat rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick. Chill in the refrigerator.
5. Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle. Place the chilled butter in the center and fold the dough over it like a letter, sealing the edges.
6. Roll the dough out again to create a long rectangle, then fold it in thirds. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
7. Repeat the rolling and folding process two more times, chilling between each fold.
8. Roll the dough out one last time and cut it into triangles. Roll each triangle from the wide end to the tip to form a croissant shape.
9. Place the rolled croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them rise for about 30 minutes until puffy.
10. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Beat the egg and brush it over each croissant.
11. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

how to serve croissant

Croissants are best served fresh and warm. You can enjoy them plain or spread with butter, jam, or chocolate. They also pair nicely with coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat.

how to store croissant

To keep your croissants fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for about 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each croissant in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

tips to make croissant

• Make sure your butter is cold to create those flaky layers.
• Don’t rush the rising times; they are key to getting a light croissant.
• Practice rolling and folding the dough carefully; this will help create layers.

variation

You can fill your croissants with chocolate, almond paste, or ham and cheese for a savory twist. Just add the filling before rolling them up.

FAQs

1. Can I make croissant dough in advance?
Yes, you can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.

2. Why are my croissants not flaky?
If your croissants are not flaky, it could be due to the butter being too warm or not rolling the dough enough.

3. Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can use whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture. It’s best to stick with all-purpose flour for traditional croissants.