There’s nothing quite like the buttery, flaky layers of a freshly baked croissant. This traditional French pastry requires time and patience, but the result is well worth the effort. Follow this detailed recipe to create authentic, golden croissants right in your own kitchen.

Servings: 12 croissants

Preparation Time: 2 days

Baking Time: 20 minutes

Difficulty Level: Advanced

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon (10 g) salt
• 1 tablespoon (10 g) instant yeast
• 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) whole milk, warmed
• 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter, softened

For the Butter Block:

• 1 1/4 cups (285 g) unsalted butter, cold

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) milk

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Instructions

Preparing the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
2. Add the warmed milk and softened butter, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight.

Preparing the Butter Block:

1. Place the cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper.
2. Roll it into a 7×7-inch (18×18 cm) square.
3. Refrigerate until firm.

Laminating the Dough:

1. Roll out the chilled dough into a 10×10-inch (25×25 cm) square.
2. Place the butter block in the center and fold the dough over it like an envelope.
3. Roll into a 20×10-inch (50×25 cm) rectangle, then fold into thirds.
4. Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
5. Repeat this rolling and folding process two more times, chilling between each turn.

Shaping the Croissants:

1. Roll out the dough to a 16×12-inch (40×30 cm) rectangle.
2. Cut into 12 triangles.
3. Roll each triangle tightly from the base to the tip.
4. Place on a baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 2 hours at room temperature.

Baking the Croissants:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Whisk the egg with milk and brush over the croissants.
3. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
4. Let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your homemade croissants with jam, butter, or on their own!