Classic Butter Croissants

Breakfast

Classic Butter Croissants

Golden, flaky, buttery croissants made with delicate laminated dough — perfect for breakfast, brunch, or bakery-style treats at home.

Ingredients

Dough

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (500 g)
  • 1/4 cup sugar (50 g)
  • 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (7 g)
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup warm milk (240 ml)
  • 1/4 cup warm water (60 ml)
  • 2 tbsp butter, softened (30 g)

Butter Layer

  • 1 1/4 cups unsalted butter (280 g)

Egg Wash

  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp milk

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
  2. Add warm milk, warm water, and softened butter.
  3. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. Cover the dough and refrigerate for 1–2 hours.

Prepare the Butter Block

  1. Place the butter between two sheets of parchment paper.
  2. Roll into a flat rectangle.
  3. Refrigerate until firm but still flexible.

Laminate the Dough

  1. Roll the chilled dough into a large rectangle.
  2. Place the butter block in the center.
  3. Fold the dough over the butter like an envelope.
  4. Roll out gently and fold into thirds.
  5. Chill for 30 minutes.
  6. Repeat the rolling and folding process 3 times total, chilling between each fold.

Shape the Croissants

  1. Roll the dough into a large thin rectangle.
  2. Cut into long triangles.
  3. Roll each triangle tightly from the wide end to the tip.
  4. Curve slightly to create the classic crescent shape.

Proof

  1. Arrange croissants on baking trays lined with parchment paper.
  2. Cover loosely and let rise until puffy, about 1–2 hours.

Bake

  1. Mix the egg and milk to make the egg wash.
  2. Brush over the croissants.
  3. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 18–22 minutes or until deep golden brown.

Tips for Perfect Croissants

  • Keep the butter cold at all times.
  • Chill the dough whenever it becomes soft.
  • Avoid overproofing to prevent butter leakage.
  • Use high-quality butter for richer flavor and flaky layers.

Optional Fillings

  • Chocolate
  • Almond cream
  • Ham and cheese
  • Nutella
  • Custard

Fresh homemade croissants are best enjoyed warm with coffee or tea. 🥐

You may also like...