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The Ultimate Homemade Croissant Recipe


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4.2 from 70 reviews

  • Author: Amina
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 croissants

Description

Master the art of flaky, buttery croissants with this ultimate homemade recipe. From mixing a tender dough infused with yeast to the meticulous folding and rolling technique that creates signature layers, these croissants are baked to golden perfection with a shiny egg wash finish. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this recipe yields irresistible croissants with a delicate crumb and rich flavor.


Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup warm milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

Finish

  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)


Instructions

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt thoroughly to ensure even distribution of leavening and flavor.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients: Gradually pour the warm milk into the dry mixture, stirring continuously until a rough dough begins to form.
  3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which helps develop gluten for structure.
  4. Roll Out Dough: Using a rolling pin, flatten the dough into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick to prepare for layering.
  5. Spread Butter: Evenly spread the softened unsalted butter over the entire surface of the rolled dough to create the buttery layers characteristic of croissants.
  6. First Fold and Roll: Fold the dough into thirds like a letter, turn it 90 degrees, then roll it out again into a rectangle. This folding technique creates thin layers of dough and butter.
  7. Repeat Folding: Repeat the folding and rolling process two additional times to build multiple buttery layers. Then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour to rest and chill.
  8. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
  9. Shape Croissants: Roll out the chilled dough into a large rectangle and cut it into triangles. Starting from the wide end, roll each triangle tightly toward the tip to form classic croissant shapes.
  10. Arrange Croissants: Place the roll-shaped croissants spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet, allowing room for expansion during baking.
  11. Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of each croissant with a beaten egg to give them a shiny, golden-brown finish when baked.
  12. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the croissants are puffed up and have a deep golden brown color.
  13. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the croissants to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm and enjoy the buttery, flaky deliciousness.

Notes

  • Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Use cold butter for spreading but softened enough to spread easily; avoid melting butter.
  • Resting the dough in the refrigerator is crucial for flaky layers and easier handling.
  • Brush the egg wash just before baking to get a glossy, appealing crust.
  • For best texture, consume croissants the same day or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast Pastry
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French