Homemade Butter Croissant Recipe: Flaky, Buttery Perfection

Nothing compares to the golden, flaky layers of a freshly baked butter croissant. While making them at home requires patience, the result is well worth the effort. Follow this step-by-step guide to create the perfect homemade butter croissants .

Ingredients:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 1/4 cups warm milk
1 1/4 cups unsalted butter (cold)
1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes. Add sugar, flour, and salt, and mix until a dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

2. Prepare the Butter Block: Place cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it into a 7x7-inch square. Refrigerate until firm.

3. Laminate the Dough: Roll out the dough into a 10x10-inch square. Place the butter in the center and fold the dough over it like an envelope. Roll out into a 20x10-inch rectangle and fold into thirds. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Repeat this rolling and folding process two more times to create flaky layers.

4. Shape the Croissants: Roll the dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle. Cut into triangles, about 4 inches wide at the base. Roll each triangle from the base to the tip to form a crescent shape. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

5. Proofing: Cover and let the croissants rise at room temperature for 2 hours until doubled in size.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the croissants with an egg wash (1 beaten egg with a splash of milk). Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Let the croissants cool slightly before indulging in their buttery, flaky goodness. Serve with jam, honey, or eat them plain for a classic treat.

Making croissants at home is a labor of love, but the delicious results are well worth the effort. Enjoy your homemade buttery masterpiece!