Easy Croissants Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold
- 2/3 cup milk, cold
- 1 egg for egg wash
Directions:
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.
- Incorporate the Butter: Cut the cold unsalted butter into small cubes. Add the butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the cold milk, mixing until a dough begins to form. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it briefly, just until it comes together and is smooth.
- First Fold: Roll the dough out into a rectangular shape. Fold it into thirds as you would a letter.
- Repeat the Process: Roll out the dough again into a rectangle and fold into thirds. Repeat this process two more times to create layers.
- Chill the Dough: Wrap the folded dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. This chilling time is crucial for the layers to develop.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Shape the Croissants: Roll out the chilled dough into a large rectangle. Cut it into triangles of your desired size.
- Form the Croissants: Starting from the wide end, roll each triangle tightly to form croissants. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the croissants to give them a golden finish when baked.
- Bake: Bake the croissants in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky.
- Enjoy: Allow the croissants to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your freshly baked, buttery croissants!
Additional Information:
Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes (including chilling time)
Calories: Varies based on serving size
Servings: Makes 12 croissants