Hello, Lykkers! Are you ready to embark on a delicious journey to create your own croissants?
These flaky pastries are not only a breakfast favorite but also a fun baking project that you can master in your kitchen.
Ingredients You'll Need
To make croissants at home, gather the following ingredients:
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold)
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 ½ cups warm milk (about 110°F)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast:Combine the warm milk and yeast in a small bowl, and let it sit for approximately 5-10 minutes, or until frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture.
3. Form the Dough: Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Prepare the Butter: While the dough is rising, take the cold butter and place it between two sheets of parchment paper. Use a rolling pin to pound it into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Refrigerate the butter while the dough rises.
5. Incorporate the Butter: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it into a rectangle (about 10x20 inches). Place the chilled butter in the center, folding the dough over to encase the butter completely.
6. Laminate the Dough: Roll the dough into a long rectangle again, then fold it into thirds (like a letter). This is your first fold. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Repeat this process two more times, chilling between each fold.
7. Shape the Croissants: After the final fold, roll the dough into a large rectangle (about 1/4 inch thick). Cut triangles (base about 4 inches wide). Roll each triangle from the base to the tip, placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Final Rise: Cover the rolled croissants with a cloth and let them rise for about 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
9. Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the croissants with a beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
How to Store Croissants
To keep your delicious croissants fresh:
• Room Temperature: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked croissants. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. They can be kept for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Now, Lykkers, are you excited to try making these flaky, buttery croissants at home? Share your baking adventures and let us know how they turn out!
From Flour to Flakiness: Mastering the Art of Croissant Making. #pastry
Video by ELT Buzz English
