Lykkers, if you're a fan of buttery, flaky croissants that melt in your mouth, you've come to the right place! These croissants, with their delicate layers, are not just delicious; they're also fun to make.
Imagine tearing a piece off and enjoying that soft, airy texture. It's like magic in every bite. So, let's dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and create the perfect croissants at home!
Ingredients – What We Need
To make these amazing croissants, we'll need the following ingredients:
• 280g High-gluten flour (gives the croissants that chewy, airy texture)
• 4g Yeast (this helps the dough rise beautifully)
• 2.5g Salt (for a balanced flavor)
• 40g Egg liquid (adds richness to the dough)
• 45g Heavy cream (for that buttery, soft texture)
• 90g Milk (helps the dough come together)
• 50g Sugar (adds a touch of sweetness)
• 30g Butter (the key to those flaky layers)
• Egg wash (to brush the croissants before baking)
Now, let's get started on this delicious journey!
Step 1: Mixing and Kneading the Dough
First, we'll combine all the ingredients, except for the butter, into a mixing bowl. Mix them well until the dough starts to come together. Then, we'll knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic. The key here is to work the dough until it's in the extension stage. This means we can stretch the dough thin enough to see light through it, but not so thin that it breaks. Once we reach this stage, we'll add the butter, cut into small cubes, and continue kneading until it's fully incorporated.
This step is crucial for developing that perfect texture, so don't rush it! Take your time and feel the dough as it comes together.
Step 2: First Proofing – Let the Dough Rise
Next, we need to let our dough rise. Place it in a warm, humid spot and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. We want it to double in size, which usually takes about an hour. Here's a pro tip: To check if it's ready, gently poke the dough with your finger. If the hole stays without closing up, then it's ready for the next step. If not, give it a bit more time to rise.
Step 3: Shaping the Croissants
Once the dough has risen, we'll gently punch it down to release the air and divide it into eight equal pieces. Roll each piece into a little log, then let them rest for about 15 minutes under plastic wrap. This resting period allows the dough to relax, making it easier to shape.
Now, let's roll out each piece into a long, roughly 35cm by 18cm triangle. The base of the triangle should be wide enough to form the flaky layers we all love. Once the dough is shaped, we'll start rolling it up from the wider end, forming a beautiful croissant shape. Don't forget to keep the ends slightly tucked in for that signature crescent look.
Step 4: Second Proofing – Let's Wait Again
Once we've shaped all the croissants, we'll place them on a baking tray. Cover them again and let them rise for another hour or so, until they've expanded to about 1.5 times their original size. This second proofing is essential for creating that light, airy texture inside the croissants.
Step 5: Egg Wash – Get That Golden Finish
Before we bake, let's give our croissants a shiny, golden finish by brushing them with a thin layer of egg wash. This step is what gives the croissants that perfect, crispy, golden exterior. Use a soft pastry brush to apply a light coat – we want to avoid overloading the surface with too much egg wash.
Step 6: Baking the Croissants
Now, it's time for the croissants to go into a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F). Bake them for around 16 minutes, or until they're golden brown and have that perfect flaky exterior. Keep an eye on them while they bake – we want them to turn out just right, not undercooked or too dark.
Step 7: Cooling and Storing the Croissants
Once the croissants are out of the oven, let them cool until they're still warm but not hot. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. These croissants are best enjoyed fresh, but they can last for a couple of days if stored properly.
Conclusion – Enjoy Your Perfect Croissants!
And there you have it, Lykkers! You've made your own homemade croissants – flaky, buttery, and absolutely delicious. The process may take some time, but it's definitely worth the effort. With a little patience and attention to detail, we can enjoy bakery-quality croissants right at home. So, what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen, try this recipe, and treat yourself to the most amazing croissants you've ever had!
We'd love to hear about your croissant-making adventures. How did they turn out? Any tips you want to share with fellow bakers? Let us know!
