breakfast croissants

Breakfast Croissants with Jam – A Flavorful Indulgence for Your Mornings

Introduction
Mornings can become brighter and more delicious with a serving of freshly baked croissants filled with jam or Nutella. This simple and quick breakfast croissant recipe is perfect for starting your day with a smile. The origins of croissants are lost in history, but they have become a symbol of good taste and comfort, and now, with the help of this recipe, you can prepare them right in the comfort of your home.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 55 minutes
Number of Servings: 12 croissants

Ingredients
For the dough:
- 700 g all-purpose flour
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 20 g honey
- 150 g sunflower oil
- 20 g fresh yeast
- 190 g lukewarm milk
- 3 eggs
- a pinch of salt
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar

For filling and finishing:
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- a splash of milk
- apricot jam (or Nutella, as preferred)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Dough
Start by preparing the dough, which is the base of these delicious croissants. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, honey, oil, eggs, salt, and vanilla sugar.

2. Activating the Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm milk (not hot, as it will kill the yeast). Let the mixture sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy – this is a sign that the yeast is active.

3. Kneading
Add the yeast mixture to the bowl with the dry ingredients and start kneading the dough. Knead for about 20 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If you find the dough too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

4. Rising
After kneading the dough well, cover the bowl with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for one hour. An effective method is to preheat the oven to a low temperature for a few minutes, then turn it off before placing the dough inside.

5. Shaping the Croissants
After an hour, the dough should have risen considerably. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet about 0.5 cm thick. Cut it into triangles, ensuring the sizes are uniform for even baking.

6. Filling
On each triangle, place a tablespoon of apricot jam or Nutella, depending on your preferences. Roll the triangles from the base to the tip to form the croissants. Make sure to shape them well so they don't unravel during baking.

7. Second Rising
Place the croissants on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them to allow for expansion. Cover them with a towel and let them rise again for one hour.

8. Finishing
In a deep plate, beat the egg yolks with the sugar and a splash of milk. Use the mixture to brush the croissants, giving them a golden and glossy finish. You can also sprinkle some sugar granules for a crispy and appealing look.

9. Baking
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and bake the croissants for 25 minutes or until they are golden and browned. The aromas that spread during baking are simply irresistible!

10. Serving
After removing them from the oven, let the croissants cool slightly before enjoying them. They are delicious both warm and cold and can be served alongside a cup of coffee or aromatic tea.

Practical Tips
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth dough.
- You can experiment with different fillings, such as chocolate, fruit jam, or even sweet cheese, depending on your preferences.
- If you want to keep the croissants longer, you can freeze them before baking. Place them on a tray in the freezer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. You can bake the croissants directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I replace fresh yeast with another type of yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to follow the instructions on the package for activation.

2. How can I make the croissants lower in calories?
Replace the oil with a healthier ingredient, such as Greek yogurt, or use sugar-free jam.

3. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, but keep in mind that the texture and taste of the croissants will be different. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid.

Nutritional Benefits
These croissants are an excellent source of energy due to the carbohydrates from the flour and sugar. They also provide protein from the eggs, and the jam adds a touch of vitamins and antioxidants, depending on the type chosen. However, moderate consumption is recommended, considering the sugar content.

A Personal Note
For an extra touch of flavor, I recommend adding a pinch of cinnamon or grated lemon zest to the dough. This will bring a subtle aroma and complexity that will make your croissants truly special.

Now it's time to get cooking! These breakfast croissants with jam are not only easy to make but also a wonderful way to start your day on a sweet note. Enjoy!