Easy Homemade Croissants

Name: Easy Homemade Croissants
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 10 h
Yield: 12 croissants
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 tablespoon instant yeast; 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (cold); 1 1/4 cups milk (warm); 1 egg; 1 tablespoon milk

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making croissants at home. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching the dough transform into beautifully flaky pastries. The process takes some time, but trust me, it’s worth every minute. I enjoy the way the buttery aroma fills my kitchen, drawing everyone in. Once you see those golden layers emerge from the oven, you’ll understand why this recipe is a favorite in our household. Whether it’s for breakfast or an afternoon treat, these croissants never fail to impress.

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:46:13.257Z

Every time I make these homemade croissants, I remember the first batch I ever attempted. I was nervous about the lamination process, but I learned that patience is key. Folding the dough multiple times creates those flaky layers we all crave. The secret is to use cold butter and work quickly to retain the temperature. It may take a bit of practice, but the result is so rewarding.

I also discovered that letting the dough rest in the fridge overnight enhances the flavor significantly. When baked, the croissants puff up beautifully and are delightfully crisp outside with a soft, buttery center. Trust me, they are worth the wait!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The incredible buttery aroma that fills your kitchen
Perfectly flaky layers that melt in your mouth
A homemade treat that rivals any bakery's croissant

      

Mastering the Croissant Technique

The key to achieving those flaky layers in your croissant lies in the lamination technique. This is where the alternating layers of dough and butter are created. When rolling out the dough, aim for a 1/4-inch thickness and maintain even pressure. If the dough feels resistant, let it rest for a few minutes before continuing. Proper chilling is critical; if the butter starts to soften during the lamination process, it can blend into the dough rather than create those distinct layers.

Another essential aspect is the shaping of the croissants. When you cut the triangles, make sure to maintain a uniform thickness, so they bake evenly. Roll the dough tightly from the base to the tip while keeping the edge of the dough tucked underneath to help them hold their shape during rising and baking. If they unravel, it’s often a sign that the dough is too warm or not rolled tightly enough.

Understanding Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a vital role in the overall success of your croissants. The all-purpose flour provides the necessary protein for structure, while the sugar not only adds a touch of sweetness but facilitates browning during baking. Using instant yeast is advantageous as it can be mixed directly with dry ingredients, saving you time and making the rising process more reliable.

Butter is the star ingredient, so opting for high-quality unsalted butter can significantly elevate your pastries. The cold temperature of the butter helps to create those elusive flaky layers when baked—warm butter will not yield the same results. If you’re looking to modify the recipe for dietary preferences, you can substitute a dairy-free butter spread, though the flavor and texture might vary.

Storing and Reheating Croissants

Once baked, homemade croissants are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers. To keep them from getting stale, place the croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to extend their life, consider freezing them. Wrap each croissant tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.

To reheat, allow the frozen croissants to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy. This method revitalizes the texture, ensuring you enjoy them almost as if they were just baked.

Ingredients

For the Croissant Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (cold)
1 1/4 cups milk (warm)

For the Egg Wash

1 egg
1 tablespoon milk

Make sure all your ingredients are at the right temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Gradually add warm milk and mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, then let it rise for 1 hour.

Incorporate the Butter

Roll the cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper into a 1/2-inch thick rectangle. Chill for at least 30 minutes.

Laminate the Dough

Roll the dough into a rectangle, place the butter in the center, fold the dough over the butter, and roll out again. Fold into thirds like a letter. Chill for 30 minutes. Repeat this process twice.

Cut the Croissants

Roll the dough into a large rectangle and cut into triangles. Roll each triangle from the base to the tip, forming a crescent shape. Place on a baking sheet and let them rise for 2 hours.

Bake the Croissants

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Whisk together the egg and milk for the egg wash. Brush over the croissants and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Enjoy your warm, flaky croissants straight from the oven!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a bit of vanilla or almond extract to the dough.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your croissants don’t rise as expected, check the freshness of your yeast. Instant yeast should be active and bubbly when you mix it with warm milk. If necessary, perform a yeast test by adding it to warm water with sugar; it should foam within a few minutes. Additionally, ensure your dough is correctly kneaded, as under-kneaded dough can lead to dense pastries.

Another common issue is overly soft dough during shaping. If it becomes difficult to handle, chill it for 10-15 minutes to firm up before continuing. Proper chilling helps keep the butter from melting into the dough and ensures those beautiful layers formed during lamination can be achieved.

Serving Suggestions

Croissants can be enjoyed simply, with a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness, or you can elevate your breakfast game by serving them with homemade jam or decadent spreads. For a twist, try stuffing them with almond paste or chocolate before baking for a delightful variation.

Pair your croissants with a robust cup of coffee or freshly brewed tea. Their buttery flavor complements a variety of beverages beautifully. If you're hosting brunch, consider serving them alongside a fruit salad or a light quiche for an impressive spread that will surely delight your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but the texture will be denser. You might want to blend with all-purpose flour.

→ How do I store leftover croissants?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ What can I fill these croissants with?

You can fill them with chocolate, almond paste, or even cheese before rolling for a savory treat.

→ Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can refrigerate it overnight and roll it out the next day.