Certainly! Making super soft croissants is a delightful process that involves some patience, but the results are totally worth it. Here’s a basic recipe for you:
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold
For the Butter Block:
- 1 1/4 cups unsalted butter, cold
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and activated yeast mixture.
- Add the flour and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth.
- Shape the dough into a rectangle and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
3. Make the Butter Block:
- Flatten the cold butter on a floured surface into a rectangle.
- Place the butter block in the center of the rolled-out dough.
- Fold the dough over the butter like a letter, sealing the edges. This is one turn.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes. Repeat this process for a total of three turns.
4. Roll and Shape:
- After the final turn, chill the dough for another 1-2 hours or overnight.
- Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut triangles from the dough and roll them up, starting from the wider end.
5. Proofing:
- Place the shaped croissants on a baking sheet, cover with a cloth, and let them proof for 2-3 hours, or until they have doubled in size.
6. Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the croissants for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
7. Enjoy:
- Allow the croissants to cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed fresh!
Remember, making croissants can take some practice, so don’t be discouraged if your first batch isn’t perfect. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
