Ingredients

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
24 tablespoons unsalted butter , European-style very cold
1 3/4 cups whole milk
4 teaspoons instant yeast or 4 teaspoons fast rise yeast
4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
salt
1 large egg
1 teaspoon cold water
Croissants are buttery, flaky rolls that originated in Austria over 300 years ago. Nowadays, croissants are commonly associated with French cuisine. Croissants are pastries made of a laminated dough, which contains layers of butter that give them their flaky texture. They got their name from their crescent shape, which is made by rolling and folding the dough. They are not only popular in France but around the world as well. Croissants are commonly paired with tea or coffee and can be eaten plain or with fillings like chocolate, ham, or cheese. They are a versatile pastry that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Instructions

1.Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat for about 2 to 3 minutes. Set it aside.
2.In a separate bowl, whisk 4 teaspoons of instant yeast or 4 teaspoons of fast rise yeast in ¾ cup of warm water. Set it aside for 5 minutes.
3.In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well.
4.Now add 1 ¾ cups of whole milk, 1 beaten egg, and 1 teaspoon of cold water to the flour mixture. Mix well until well combined.
5.Add the melted butter in the flour mixture. Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes.
6.Place the dough in a greased bowl and let it rest for 20 minutes at room temperature.
7.After 20 minutes, wrap the dough in a plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to overnight.
8.Divide the chilled dough into 3 equal portions. Roll and stretch the dough into a rectangle using a rolling pin. Spread 8 tablespoons of softened butter on the rolled-out dough.
9.Fold the dough as you would fold a letter. Place the folded dough in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
10.Repeat step 8 and 9 two times more.
11.Roll the dough into a thin layer and cut it into triangles. Roll the triangles in the croissant shape.
12.Place the croissants on a lined baking tray. Cover them with plastic wrap and let them rest for 1 hour.
13.Preheat your oven to 400°F. Beat 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Brush the croissants with the beaten egg.
14.Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown on the outside.

PROS

Homemade croissants offer quality and taste that one cannot find in packed croissants.
Croissants are an excellent morning treat that personify the French culture.
They are perfect for breakfast or brunch.

CONS

Croissants are not the most nutritious of foods due to their high-fat content.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

A croissant provides about 200-300 calories. Croissants contain good fats that support brain function and development. They are also an excellent source of fiber, minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients. Croissants contain vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects your body cells.

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