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Making croissants from scratch can seem daunting, but using a stand mixer simplifies the process. This step-by-step guide will help you create flaky, buttery croissants at home with ease.
Ingredients Needed
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups cold milk
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Attach the dough hook and mix on low until well combined. Gradually add the cold milk while mixing. Continue kneading on medium-low for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Butter Block
While the dough chills, prepare the butter. Place the cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper. Using a rolling pin, pound and roll the butter into a flat, rectangular block about 8×8 inches. Keep it cold.
Step 3: Incorporate the Butter
Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Roll it out into a rectangle roughly twice the size of the butter block. Place the butter in the center and fold the dough over it, sealing the edges. Roll out gently into a long rectangle. Fold into thirds like a letter. Chill for 20 minutes.
Step 4: Laminate the Dough
Repeat the rolling and folding process two more times, chilling for 20 minutes between each fold. This creates the layers needed for flaky croissants. After the final fold, refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour or overnight.
Step 5: Shape the Croissants
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into triangles. Roll each triangle from the wide end to the tip to form a crescent shape. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 6: Egg Wash and Bake
Beat the egg with water to make an egg wash. Brush this over the croissants to give them a shiny, golden finish. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the croissants are puffed and golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy Your Homemade Croissants
Freshly baked croissants are best enjoyed warm. They make a perfect breakfast or snack, especially when paired with jam or butter. With practice, you’ll master this delicious pastry using your stand mixer and simple techniques.