Classic Buttery Croissants (Quick Recipe)

Croissants are the ultimate buttery, flaky pastry, and while the traditional method takes hours (sometimes days), this quick version gives you all the delicious layers in a fraction of the time. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you’re craving something indulgent!

🛒 Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour

  • ½ cup warm water

  • ½ cup warm milk

  • ¼ cup sugar

  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 cup cold unsalted butter (for laminating)

  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1 – Activate the Yeast

  1. In a bowl, mix warm water, warm milk, sugar, and yeast.

  2. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2 – Make the Dough

  1. Add flour, salt, and softened butter to the yeast mixture.

  2. Mix until a dough forms, then knead 5–7 minutes until smooth.

  3. Cover and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 3 – Prepare the Butter Block

  1. Place cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper.

  2. Pound and roll into a flat square (about 6×6 inches).

  3. Refrigerate until firm but pliable.

Step 4 – Laminate the Dough

  1. Roll out dough into a rectangle (about 12×8 inches).

  2. Place butter block in the center and fold dough over it like an envelope.

  3. Roll out again, fold into thirds (like a letter), then chill for 20 minutes.

  4. Repeat rolling and folding 2 more times, chilling in between.

Step 5 – Shape the Croissants

  1. Roll dough into a large rectangle (¼ inch thick).

  2. Cut into long triangles.

  3. Starting at the wide end, roll each triangle into a crescent shape.

  4. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6 – Final Rise & Bake

  1. Cover loosely and let croissants rise for 45 minutes.

  2. Brush with egg wash.

  3. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, until golden and puffed.

💡 Tips for Perfect Croissants

  • Keep butter cold during lamination to ensure flaky layers.

  • Don’t skip chilling between folds—it prevents butter from melting into the dough.

  • For extra shine, brush croissants twice with egg wash (before baking and halfway through).

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