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Easy Homemade Croissants – Step-by-Step Guide
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## Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Slowly add the warm milk while mixing to form a dough. Knead it gently for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
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## Step 2: Prepare the Butter Layer
While the dough is rising, place the cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper. Use a rolling pin to flatten it into a square roughly 8 x 8 inches (20 x 20 cm). Chill the butter in the fridge so it stays firm.
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## Step 3: Roll and Fold – The Lamination Process
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 16 x 10 inches (40 x 25 cm). Place the chilled butter square in the center of the dough and fold the dough edges over to fully encase the butter.
Now it’s time to laminate! Roll the dough gently into a long rectangle again, then fold it into thirds like a letter. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes. Repeat this rolling and folding process two more times, chilling the dough between each turn. This layering of dough and butter creates the croissant’s famous flaky texture.
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## Step 4: Shape Your Croissants
After the final chill, roll out the dough into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick. Cut the dough into triangles with a base of about 4 inches (10 cm).
Starting at the wide end, roll each triangle tightly toward the tip to form the classic crescent shape. Place the shaped croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart to allow for rising.
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## Step 5: Proof and Bake
Cover the croissants lightly with a towel and let them proof (rise) for about 1 to 1.5 hours until puffy.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the croissants gently with beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish. Bake for 15-20 minutes until puffed, flaky, and golden brown.
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## Enjoy Your Fresh Homemade Croissants!
Let the croissants cool slightly, then savor the warm, buttery layers with jam, honey, or simply on their own. Making croissants at home is a rewarding experience — and with this guide, you’ve mastered the basics to impress yourself and your guests!
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### Tips for Success:
* Keep your butter cold throughout the process to get those perfect layers.
* Don’t rush the resting times — chilling helps the dough relax and the butter stay firm.
* Practice makes perfect! Your croissants will get even flakier with each attempt.
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If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how your croissants turned out or any personal twists you added. Happy baking!
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