Easy Homemade Croissants

Name: Easy Homemade Croissants
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 12 croissants
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 tablespoon instant yeast; 1 1/4 cups whole milk, warm; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup unsalted butter, cold; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon water

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these easy homemade croissants because they transform my kitchen into a delightful bakery. The process may seem intimidating, but once you get the hang of laminating the dough, it becomes quite enjoyable. The aroma that fills the air while they bake is simply irresistible, and the golden, flaky layers are worth every minute spent in the kitchen. I can't wait to share this recipe with you so you can enjoy these buttery treats just as much as I do!

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:37:18.887Z

When I first attempted to make croissants, I was nervous but excited. I researched techniques and found that the secret is in the folding and rolling of the dough. Each fold creates those beautiful layers, which is what makes croissants so flaky.

After a few tries, I developed a rhythm that worked for me. I realized that allowing the dough to rest in the fridge helped with the rolling process, making it easier to achieve that perfect puff. The first time I pulled a tray of freshly baked croissants from the oven, I felt a sense of pride!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Buttery layers that melt in your mouth
Freshly baked aroma that fills your home
Customizable with sweet or savory fillings

      

Mastering the Dough

The key to making perfect croissant dough lies in the precise balance of ingredients and technique. When you mix the warm milk with the dry ingredients, aim for a dough that is slightly tacky but not overly sticky. If it seems too wet, a tablespoon of flour can be added, but be careful not to overdo it. Kneading for five minutes should give you a soft, elastic dough that will rise well during proofing.

During the first rise, make sure to cover the dough completely with a cloth. This helps maintain moisture and warmth, crucial for yeast activation. Choose a warm spot in your kitchen, perhaps near a preheated oven or in a sunny area, to encourage it to double in size. This initial rise is essential for developing the bread-like texture that croissants are famous for.

The Art of Lamination

Lamination is what gives croissants their iconic flaky layers. When rolling out the dough, be sure to work quickly to prevent the butter from softening too much. Use cold equipment, including the rolling pin and work surface, for best results. Properly enclosing the butter layer and folding the dough in thirds will create the desired layers, so be meticulous during this process. The more folds, the flakier the croissants will be!

Refrigerating the dough after each roll and fold is non-negotiable; this helps the gluten relax and keeps the butter solid. When you roll out the dough, look for a smooth, consistent texture. If you notice any cracks, try to patch them lightly with your fingers. It's better to keep the dough as cool as possible while you work; if it gets too soft, let it chill in the fridge briefly before proceeding.

Ingredients

Gather everything you need to make the perfect croissants!

For the Dough

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

For the Butter Layer

1 cup unsalted butter, cold

For Egg Wash

1 large egg
1 tablespoon water

Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready to ensure a smooth process.

Instructions

Let's get started on creating these delicious croissants!

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Gradually add in the warm milk and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 5 minutes.

Cover and let rise for 1 hour.

Make 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 rectangular shape about 1/2 inch thick. Refrigerate until firm.

Laminate the Dough

Roll the risen dough into a large rectangle. Place the butter layer in the center and fold the dough over it in thirds like a letter. Roll out again to form a larger rectangle, fold into thirds, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Repeat this process two more times.

Shape the Croissants

Once laminated, roll the dough into a large rectangle and cut into triangles. Starting from the base, roll each triangle tightly towards the tip. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Proof the Croissants

Cover the croissants with a clean cloth and let them rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Bake the Croissants

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

Enjoy your freshly baked croissants warm from the oven!

Pro Tips

Make sure your ingredients are at the right temperature for best results. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour during the rolling process.

Ingredient Insights

Using high-quality unsalted butter is crucial for rich flavor in your croissants. The fat content in butter affects how well it layers, and premium butter often has a higher fat content, which contributes to the croissant’s flakiness. If you're dairy-free, try using a high-quality plant-based butter alternative; however, make sure it remains cold throughout the lamination process for optimal results.

For those with dietary restrictions, the all-purpose flour can be substituted with a gluten-free blend, but keep in mind the texture may vary slightly. To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg to the dough for a hint of warmth, or try a flavored butter layer with herbs or spices, taking care not to overpower the buttery essence of the croissants.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Freshly baked croissants can be enjoyed immediately, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them after baking. Wrap each croissant tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be reheated directly from the freezer in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through, restoring the crispiness.

You can enjoy your croissants plain, but they can also be elevated with a variety of fillings. Sweet options like chocolate, almond paste, or jam are classic choices. For a savory twist, try adding cheese or ham before rolling the triangles. The fun of making croissants is that you can customize them to your taste, so feel free to experiment with combinations that excite your palate!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before rolling and baking.

→ What can I fill the croissants with?

You can fill them with chocolate, almond paste, cheese, or ham!

→ How should I store leftover croissants?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

→ Why do my croissants not rise?

Ensure your yeast is active and that the dough is kept in a warm environment to rise properly.