Name: Croissants Recipe: Flaky and Buttery
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 245 min
Ingredients: Dough:; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp active dry yeast; 1 1/4 cups warm milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); Butter Layer:; 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (cold); Assembly:; 1 egg (beaten); Optional: Powdered sugar (berries); Suggested Pairings: Jam (coffee)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Croissants are a classic, indulgent pastry, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or special occasions. These golden, flaky pastries, featuring layers of buttery dough folded to perfection, deliver rich, satisfying flavors in every bite. Presented on a white ceramic platter, garnished with a dusting of powdered sugar or fresh berries, these Croissants offer a vibrant, inviting aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, and ideal for home bakers seeking a crowd-pleasing pastry that brings French-inspired elegance to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp salt
1 tbsp active dry yeast
1 1/4 cups warm milk (110°F/45°C)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Butter Layer:

1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, cold

Assembly:

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Serving:

Optional: Powdered sugar, fresh berries
Suggested Accompaniments: Jam, clotted cream
Suggested Pairings: Coffee, tea
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: Mixing bowl, rolling pin, plastic wrap, baking sheets, parchment paper, pastry brush, measuring cups/spoons, sharp knife

Step-by-Step Process

Make Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add warm milk and melted butter, stirring until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Taste a small pinch of dough and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt or sugar for a balanced flavor. Shape into a ball, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled.
Prepare Butter Layer: Place cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper. Pound with a rolling pin into a 7×7-inch square, keeping it cold. Chill if it softens.
Laminate Dough: Roll dough into a 10×10-inch square. Place the butter square in the center, fold the dough edges over to encase the butter, sealing tightly. Roll into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Fold into thirds (like a letter). Wrap and chill for 30 minutes. Repeat rolling and folding twice more, chilling 30 minutes between each.
Shape Croissants: Roll dough into a 12×24-inch rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick. Cut into 12 triangles (base about 4 inches wide). Make a small slit at the base of each triangle, then roll from base to tip to form croissants. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets, curving ends slightly.
Proof and Bake: Cover croissants loosely and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours until puffy. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush croissants with egg wash. Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden and flaky.
Serve: Arrange on a white ceramic platter, garnish with powdered sugar or fresh berries. Serve warm with jam, clotted cream, coffee, or tea.

Tips for Better Croissants

Use cold butter for the butter layer to ensure distinct, flaky layers.
Taste the dough before shaping to balance subtle sweetness and saltiness.
Keep the dough and butter cold during lamination to prevent butter from melting into the dough.
Roll evenly to maintain consistent layers; avoid pressing too hard.
Use a white ceramic platter for a vibrant presentation, highlighting the golden croissants and colorful garnishes.
Make ahead: Shape croissants, refrigerate overnight, then proof and bake fresh.
Check doneness by ensuring a deep golden color and crisp texture.
Enhance aesthetic: Present on a white ceramic platter with powdered sugar or berries for an elegant, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Croissants: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and ensure yeast is gluten-free; note that the texture may vary.
Vegan Croissants: Replace butter with vegan butter, use plant-based milk, and use a plant-based egg wash (e.g., almond milk).
Chocolate Croissants: Place a small piece of dark chocolate at the base of each triangle before rolling.
Savory Croissants: Add 1/2 cup shredded cheese or herbs (e.g., thyme) to the dough.
Almond Croissants: Fill with 1 tsp almond paste before rolling; top with sliced almonds before baking.
Low-Sugar Croissants: Reduce sugar to 2 tbsp in the dough.
Spiced Croissants: Add 1/2 tsp cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a warm flavor.
Mini Croissants: Cut smaller triangles for bite-sized croissants; reduce bake time to 12–15 minutes.

Storage and Serving Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days; reheat at 350°F for 5 minutes to restore crispness.
Freeze baked croissants for up to 2 months; wrap individually in foil, thaw at room temperature, and reheat.
Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Use leftovers as bases for sandwiches or bread pudding.
Pair with jam or cream to complement the buttery, flaky flavor.
Presented on a white ceramic platter with vibrant garnishes for an elegant, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 12 servings (1 croissant each):

Calories: 320 kcal
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 350mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 5g
Vitamin A: 15% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 0% Daily Value
Calcium: 4% Daily Value
Iron: 10% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand. High in fat; pair with fruit for balance.

Conclusion

This Croissant recipe offers a flaky, buttery pastry, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a French-inspired classic. Its detailed preparation and elegant presentation make it a favorite. The crisp layers and rich flavor delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its indulgent, versatile appeal.