Why Make This Recipe
Making homemade croissants is a rewarding experience. The smell of fresh, buttery pastries fills your kitchen, and the taste is truly unmatched. Although the process may seem a bit long, it is well worth the effort. You will enjoy delicious, flaky croissants that you have made with your own hands, and they are perfect for breakfast or any time of day.
How to Make Homemade Croissants
Ingredients
- 35g starter
- 70g flour
- 70g water
- 450g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 40g sugar
- 230ml water
- 150g active sourdough starter
- 250g unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons flour
- 1 egg plus 1 tbsp water
Directions
- In the morning, feed your starter by combining the starter, flour, and water in a bowl. Mix until well combined. Let it double or triple in size.
- Prepare the dough by mixing all dough ingredients to form a sticky dough ball. Knead for 5-8 minutes until smooth, then let it ferment for 3 hours.
- Refrigerate the dough overnight.
- In the morning, mix the flour and butter together, then roll it into a rectangle and chill.
- Roll out the dough, sandwich the butter in between, and fold as instructed.
- After several folds and chilling periods, roll the dough into a rectangle and cut triangles.
- Roll the triangles into croissants and proof for 4-5 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 205 degrees Celsius.
- Brush the croissants with egg wash and bake for about 20 minutes until they are browned.
- Serve them fresh, or freeze for later baking.
How to Serve Homemade Croissants
Homemade croissants are best served warm. You can enjoy them plain or fill them with your favorite spreads like jam, chocolate, or almond paste. They also pair well with coffee or hot chocolate for a delightful breakfast or snack.
How to Store Homemade Croissants
To store homemade croissants, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for a day or two. For longer storage, it’s best to freeze them. Wrap each croissant in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for about a month.
Tips to Make Homemade Croissants
- Ensure your butter is at the right temperature. It should be soft but not melted.
- Be patient with the folding and chilling steps; they are key to creating flaky layers.
- If you find the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a bit of flour on your work surface to make it easier to handle.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for cutting the triangles to ensure clean edges.
Variation
You can make chocolate-filled croissants by placing a few pieces of chocolate at the wide end of the triangle before rolling them up. You can also add almond paste or ham and cheese for savory options.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pastry dough instead?
Yes, you can use store-bought dough for a quicker option, but homemade croissants will have a more authentic flavor and texture.
2. How do I know when the croissants are ready to bake?
The croissants are ready to bake when they have doubled in size and feel light and airy.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out.
Croissants
Ingredients
Method
- In the morning, feed your starter by combining the starter, flour, and water in a bowl. Mix until well combined. Let it double or triple in size.
- Prepare the dough by mixing all dough ingredients to form a sticky dough ball. Knead for 5-8 minutes until smooth.
- Let it ferment for 3 hours.
- Refrigerate the dough overnight.
- In the morning, mix the flour and butter together, then roll it into a rectangle and chill.
- Roll out the dough, sandwich the butter in between, and fold as instructed.
- After several folds and chilling periods, roll the dough into a rectangle and cut triangles.
- Roll the triangles into croissants and proof for 4-5 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 205 degrees Celsius.
- Brush the croissants with egg wash and bake for about 20 minutes until they are browned.