1. Activate the Yeast:
a. In a bowl, combine warm milk, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Make the Dough:
a. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
b. Pour the activated yeast mixture into the flour and stir until a dough forms.
c. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth.
d. Form the dough into a rectangle, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
3. Prepare the Butter Layer:
a. While the dough is chilling, cut the cold butter into cubes and toss them with flour until well coated.
b. Place the butter-flour mixture between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it into a rectangle, roughly the same size as the chilled dough.
c. Chill the butter layer in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
4. Laminate the Dough:
a. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a larger rectangle.
b. Place the chilled butter layer on two-thirds of the dough.
c. Fold the uncovered third over the butter layer and then fold the other third over the top, creating three layers.
d. This completes one fold. Chill the dough for 30 minutes. Repeat this process for a total of three to four folds.
5. Shape the Croissants:
a. Roll out the laminated dough into a large rectangle.
b. Cut the dough into triangles.
c. Make a small slit at the base of each triangle and roll it up towards the tip.
6. Proof and Bake:
a. Place the shaped croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
b. Whisk together the egg and water to make the egg wash. Brush each croissant with the egg wash.
c. Allow the croissants to proof in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until they double in size.
d. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
e. Bake the croissants for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
7. Enjoy:
a. Allow the freshly baked croissants to cool slightly before indulging in their buttery, flaky goodness.
Conclusion:
Mastering the art of making croissants at home is a rewarding experience that brings the joy of freshly baked, flaky pastries to your table. With this Easy Croissants Recipe, you’ll be amazed at the layers of buttery perfection you can achieve in your own kitchen. Whether enjoyed plain, with a spread of jam, or as the foundation for a breakfast sandwich, these homemade croissants are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Happy baking!