Plain Croissant Recipe

Making the Croissants

1. 1

   Prepare the Dough

   In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and milk. Mix until a dough forms.

2. 2

   Knead the Dough

   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

3. 3

   Prepare the Butter

   While the dough rises, prepare the butter. Place the unsalted butter between two sheets of parchment paper and flatten it with a rolling pin into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Refrigerate until firm.

4. 4

   Laminate the Dough

   Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Place the chilled butter in the center, fold the dough over it, and seal the edges. Roll out the dough and fold it into thirds. Repeat this process 3-4 times, chilling the dough between folds.

5. 5

   Shape the Croissants

   Roll out the final dough into a large rectangle and cut it into triangles. Starting from the base of each triangle, roll it up tightly to form a croissant shape. Place the croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. 6

   Proof the Croissants

   Cover the croissants with a cloth and let them rise for about 1 hour until puffy.

7. 7

   Bake the Croissants

   Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Beat the egg and brush it over the croissants for a golden finish. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

8. 8

   Cool and Serve

   Remove the croissants from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Serve warm.