How to Make Croissants at Home: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Making croissants at home might seem intimidating, but with the right steps, you can achieve bakery-quality results. Follow this simple guide to create delicious, flaky croissants in your own kitchen.

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

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the yeast mixture and warm milk to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

1. Shape the Butter: Place the cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper. Use a rolling pin to flatten it into a 7x7-inch square.
2. Chill the Butter: Place the butter block in the refrigerator to keep it cold while the dough rises.

1. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a 10x10-inch square.
2. Enclose the Butter: Place the chilled butter block in the center of the dough. Fold the corners of the dough over the butter to enclose it completely.
3. Roll and Fold: Roll the dough into a 20x10-inch rectangle. Fold it into thirds, like a letter. This is the first "turn."
4. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. Repeat the Process: Repeat the rolling and folding process two more times, chilling the dough for 30 minutes between each turn.

1. Roll Out the Dough: Roll the dough into a 24x12-inch rectangle.
2. Cut the Dough: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into triangles with a base of about 4 inches.
3. Shape the Croissants: Starting from the base, roll each triangle tightly towards the tip to form a crescent shape. Place the croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

1. Proof the Croissants: Cover the croissants with a damp cloth and let them rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until they double in size.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the croissants for a golden finish.
4. Bake: Bake the croissants for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky.

Enjoy Your Homemade Croissants

The easiest bit!

Let the croissants cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy them plain, with butter, or your favorite jam.

By following these simple steps, you can make delicious, flaky croissants at home. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this guide will help you create a bakery-quality treat that will impress your family and friends.

For more baking tips and recipes, check out these helpful resources:

• The Science of Croissants
• 10 Tips for Better Croissants
• How to Make Perfect Croissants

Happy baking!

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