Easy Croissants Recipe

### **Instructions**

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Dough**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Stir to mix.
2. Gradually add the warm milk, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
3. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

#### **Step 2: Prepare the Butter Layer**
4. Place the cold slices of butter between two sheets of parchment paper. Using a rolling pin, flatten and shape the butter into a 6×8-inch rectangle.
5. Refrigerate the butter layer while the dough chills.

#### **Step 3: Enclose the Butter**
6. Roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle about 10×15 inches. Place the butter layer in the center of the dough.
7. Fold the dough over the butter like a letter, sealing the edges to enclose the butter completely.

#### **Step 4: Laminate the Dough**
8. Roll the dough out into a long rectangle again. Fold it into thirds like a letter, then turn it 90 degrees.
9. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Repeat this rolling, folding, and chilling process two more times.

#### **Step 5: Shape the Croissants**
10. Roll out the laminated dough into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Cut the dough into triangles.
11. Starting at the wide end, roll each triangle tightly into a crescent shape. Place the shaped croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

#### **Step 6: Proof and Bake**
12. Cover the croissants with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until puffy.
13. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the croissants with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
14. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.

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### **Tips for Success**

1. **Use Cold Butter:** Keeping the butter cold ensures the layers stay distinct during baking, creating that signature flaky texture.
2. **Chill Between Steps:** Don’t skip the refrigeration—it’s crucial for easy handling and perfect layers.
3. **Roll Evenly:** Keep the dough as even as possible to ensure uniform croissants.
4. **Be Patient:** While this simplified recipe is faster than traditional methods, take your time with each step for the best results.

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### **Serving Suggestions**

– **Classic:** Enjoy plain with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
– **Sweet Fillings:** Add chocolate chips, almond paste, or jam before rolling the dough into crescent shapes.
– **Savory Options:** Fill with ham and cheese for a satisfying breakfast or lunch.
– **Deluxe:** Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or alongside a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

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### **Variations**

1. **Chocolate Croissants:** Place a small piece of chocolate on each triangle before rolling.
2. **Almond Croissants:** Brush baked croissants with sugar syrup, sprinkle with sliced almonds, and bake for 5 more minutes.
3. **Mini Croissants:** Cut smaller triangles for bite-sized versions, perfect for parties or snacks.
4. **Whole Wheat:** Substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.

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### **Why This Recipe Works**

This easy croissant recipe uses a simplified lamination process, making it accessible for home bakers while maintaining the essential elements of flaky layers and buttery flavor. By keeping the butter cold and rolling the dough carefully, you achieve a bakery-quality result without the intimidation of traditional methods.

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### **The Bottom Line**

Making croissants at home may sound challenging, but this **Easy Croissants Recipe** makes it achievable and rewarding. With a few simple steps and a bit of patience, you’ll have flaky, golden pastries that rival anything you’d find at a bakery.

So roll up your sleeves, warm up the oven, and treat yourself to the magic of homemade croissants. You’ll savor every buttery, flaky bite!