Buttery Croissant Recipes At Home

Name: Buttery Croissant Recipes At Home
Prep time: 3 h
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Yield: 12 croissants
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 tablespoon instant yeast; 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, chilled; 1 1/4 cups milk, warmed; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon milk

Highlighted under: Homemade Dessert Favorites

I’ve always been mesmerized by the flaky layers of a freshly baked croissant. Making buttery croissants at home seemed like an impossible dream until I decided to take the plunge. With a bit of patience and careful folding, the results are genuinely worth the effort. The golden, crisp exterior and the soft, airy interior come together to create a perfect pastry that’s delightful with coffee or on its own. Join me on this buttery adventure, and let's make croissants you'll be proud of.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:28:07.090Z

When I first attempted making croissants at home, I was both excited and nervous. The idea of laminating dough was daunting, but I quickly learned that the temperature of the butter and dough are crucial. I found that working in a cool environment helps keep the butter from melting, ensuring those beautiful layers.

After making several batches, I discovered the secret to achieving that perfect flaky texture is all in the folding technique. Each fold enhances the layers, and soon, I had croissants that were not only delicious but also Instagram-worthy!

Why You'll Love These Croissants
Flaky layers that melt in your mouth
Buttery aroma fills your kitchen
Perfectly pairs with your morning coffee

Mastering the Lamination Process

The key to achieving those coveted flaky layers lies in the lamination process. When you envelop the chilled butter in the dough, ensure the butter is not too soft; it should be firm yet pliable. If the butter begins to ooze out during rolling, it may be too warm. A good trick is to place the butter in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes before starting. Each fold during the process creates layers of butter and dough, which will expand in the oven to create that airy texture.

After rolling out the dough and folding it into thirds, always chill it for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up again, making the next rolling easier. If you're looking to create even more layers, you can repeat the folding process for a total of three times, chilling the dough for 30 minutes in between. This extra step can result in even flakier croissants.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Using high-quality butter makes a significant difference in the final taste of your croissants. Go for unsalted butter to control the salt levels in your pastry. If you’re adventurous, try a European-style butter that usually has a higher fat content, leading to even richer flavor. Additionally, selecting a good quality flour is crucial; all-purpose flour works well, but if you can find bread flour, it can provide a bit more strength and chewy texture due to its higher protein content.

When it comes to yeast, instant yeast is recommended for its ease of use and reliability. If you only have active dry yeast, you can use it, but activate it first in warm milk with a pinch of sugar for about 5-10 minutes. If you're short on time, consider making the dough the night before and allowing it to rise slowly in the refrigerator. This overnight method can enhance flavor and develop a more complex taste without the stress of same-day preparation.

Ingredients

For the Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, chilled
1 1/4 cups milk, warmed

For the Egg Wash

1 egg
1 tablespoon milk

Make sure all ingredients, especially the butter, are chilled before starting the process for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Gradually add the warm milk until combined. Knead the dough until smooth, then let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Laminate the Dough

Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Place chilled butter in the center, fold the dough over the butter, and seal the edges. Roll out the dough into a larger rectangle and fold it into thirds. Chill for 30 minutes.

Shape the Croissants

Roll out the dough again into a larger rectangle. Cut into triangles and roll each triangle from the base to the tip. Place on a baking sheet and let rise for 30 minutes.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix the egg and milk to create an egg wash, brushing it over the croissants. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy!

Let the croissants cool slightly before serving to enjoy the incredible flakiness.

Pro Tips

Ensure your workspace is cool while working with the dough to maintain the buttery layers.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Croissants are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze baked croissants. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy exterior.

If you find yourself with too many unbaked croissants, you can also freeze them at the shaping stage. Arrange them on a baking sheet and flash freeze them for an hour before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; simply brush with egg wash and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Croissants can be delightful on their own, but they also serve as a perfect canvas for various toppings. Slather a warm croissant with homemade jam or almond paste for a sweet treat. For a savory twist, sandwich it with ham and cheese, then pop it back in the oven until the cheese melts. Your guests will love the contrast of the flaky pastry with the gooey center.

Pair your croissants with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a stylish brunch spread featuring pastries, fruits, and spreads. Consider adding a simple salad on the side to balance out the richness of the croissants, making them suitable for a brunch gathering or a cozy breakfast at home.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the croissant dough before shaping. Just ensure it's well-wrapped.

→ How long can I store baked croissants?

Baked croissants can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

→ What can I serve with croissants?

They pair wonderfully with butter, jam, or even as a sandwich base.

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but it will affect the texture.