Fluffy croissants with nuts and chocolate

Fluffy Croissants with Nuts and Chocolate

Who doesn't love the enticing smell of freshly baked croissants? These fluffy croissants with nuts and chocolate are not just a delight, but also a sweet memory of childhood, when every morning began with lovingly prepared treats. Get ready to transform your kitchen into a true pastry workshop, where simple ingredients turn into extraordinary goodies!

Preparation Time
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Rising time: 1.5 hours
- Baking time: 30-40 minutes
- Total: 2 hours and 5 minutes
- Servings: 18 croissants

Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 250 ml lukewarm milk
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 6 tablespoons oil
- 500 g flour (type 000)
- 25 g fresh yeast (about 2 cubes)
- 2 nuts (optional, for filling)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 egg for brushing
- Essences: rum, vanilla, lemon zest (to taste)
- Chocolate (chunks or broken bar) and crushed nuts (for filling)

Nutritional Information (per croissant)
- Calories: approximately 180 kcal
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Protein: 3 g

Dough Preparation
1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, add the lukewarm milk and dissolve the fresh yeast in it. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This step is essential to activate the yeast, ensuring the croissants are fluffy and airy.

2. Beating the eggs: In a large bowl, beat the two eggs with the sugar until you achieve a homogeneous and fluffy mixture. It is recommended to use a whisk or an electric mixer to obtain an airy texture.

3. Combining the ingredients: Add the milk with the yeast to the egg mixture and mix well. Then, gradually start adding the sifted flour, salt, and flavors (rum and vanilla essences and lemon zest). Mix with a spatula or by hand until the flour is completely incorporated.

4. Kneading the dough: Finally, add the oil and knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. This is a crucial moment; a well-kneaded dough will lead to fluffy croissants.

5. Rising: Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and leave it in a warm place. The dough should double in volume in about an hour.

Shaping the Croissants
1. Dividing the dough: Once the dough has risen, divide it into three equal parts. This will ensure that the croissants will be uniform.

2. Shaping: Roll out each part on a floured surface, forming a circle with a diameter of about 30 cm. Use a plate to cut out the circle, then cut it into six triangles.

3. Filling: On each triangle, add a piece of chocolate and a teaspoon of crushed nuts. If desired, you can also add a whole nut for extra texture and flavor.

4. Rolling: Roll each triangle from the base to the tip, forming the croissant. Make sure the tip is well secured so it doesn't open during baking.

Baking
1. Preparing for the oven: Place the croissants on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Let them rise for another 15-20 minutes, covered with a towel.

2. Brushing: Beat an egg with a tablespoon of milk and brush each croissant. This step will give a golden color and a shiny texture.

3. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the croissants for 30-40 minutes until they are golden and fluffy. Aromatic pheromones will fill the entire house!

Serving and Variations
Fluffy croissants with nuts and chocolate are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack. You can serve them plain or with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. A raspberry jam or vanilla sauce can add an extra touch of refinement.

Variations: Instead of chocolate, you can try fillings with fruit jam, almond paste, or even sweet cheese. Additionally, for a more exotic flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough or filling.

Tips and Tricks
- Flour: Make sure to use good quality flour for optimal results.
- Rising: If it is winter or in cooler rooms, the dough will need more time to rise. You can let it rise in the preheated oven at 50°C, then turn it off.
- Storage: Croissants store well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can freeze them to enjoy later!

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can replace fresh yeast with dry yeast, using about 7 g (one packet).

2. How can I check if the dough is well risen?
The dough is ready when it doubles in volume and if you gently press it, it will slowly return to its original shape.

3. Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Of course! Dried fruits, sunflower seeds, or white chocolate are just a few delicious options.

These fluffy croissants with nuts and chocolate are more than just a simple recipe; they are an invitation to share pleasant moments with loved ones. So, put on your apron and get ready to indulge your taste buds! Bon appétit!