Easy Croissants Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold
• 2/3 cup milk, cold
• 1 egg for egg wash

Directions:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt until well combined.
2. Add Butter: Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture becomes coarse and crumbly.
3. Incorporate Milk: Gradually add the cold milk, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead briefly until it just comes together.
5. First Roll and Fold: Roll the dough into a rectangle, then fold it into thirds like a letter.
6. Repeat Process: Repeat the rolling and folding process two more times.
7. Chill Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
8. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
9. Shape Croissants: Roll out the dough into a large rectangle and cut it into triangles.
10. Form Croissants: Roll each triangle tightly from the wide end to form croissants.
11. Prepare for Baking: Place the croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
12. Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the croissants to give them a golden finish.
13. Bake: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the croissants are golden brown and flaky.
14. Enjoy: Serve your freshly baked, buttery croissants warm.

Additional Information:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes + chilling time
• Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes (including chilling time)
• Servings: Makes 12 croissants
• Calories: Varies based on serving size