Simple fluffy croissants

Fluffy Simple Croissants – A Delight That Will Win Your Heart

Fluffy croissants are a perfect choice for breakfast, a delicious snack, or even a savory dessert. These treats are not only easy to make, but they are also incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy them plain, with jam, or alongside a cup of coffee, each bite is an explosion of flavor and texture. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into fluffy croissants that will delight any meal.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Servings: 12 croissants

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g flour (preferably type 000 or type 550 for a finer texture)
- 260 ml milk (ideally at room temperature)
- 25 g fresh yeast (one cube)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (white sugar dissolves faster, but you can also use brown sugar for a more caramelized taste)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar (for an extra flavor)
- 50 g butter (melted, preferably of high quality)
- 1 egg (at room temperature, to help homogenize the dough)
- Salt (to taste, a pinch is sufficient)
- 2 tablespoons oil (to add elasticity to the dough)
- 100 g melted butter (for brushing the dough)
- Poppy seeds (for decoration)
- 1 egg (for brushing the croissants)

The history of fluffy croissants

Croissants have a long history, being a tradition in many culinary cultures. Over time, they have evolved, adapting to available ingredients and local preferences. Easy to prepare and incredibly tasty, croissants have become a symbol of culinary comfort, bringing back childhood memories and special moments around the family table.

Making fluffy croissants – Step by step

1. Sift the flour – Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step is essential to aerate the flour and avoid lumps in the dough. Make sure you have a clean and well-organized workspace.

2. Prepare the yeast mixture – In a small saucepan, melt the butter in the milk. Add the two tablespoons of sugar and mix well. Allow the mixture to cool slightly until it is warm but not hot (about 37-40 degrees Celsius is ideal). In the warm milk, dissolve the yeast and mix until well combined.

3. Form the dough – Make a well in the center of the sifted flour and add the yeast mixture. Mix in a little flour from the sides until the yeast is incorporated. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise for 20 minutes in a warm place.

4. Add the ingredients – Once the yeast mixture has risen (it will double in volume), add the egg, vanilla sugar, salt, and mix well. Start kneading the dough, gradually adding the oil. Continue kneading for 10-15 minutes until you achieve an elastic and smooth dough.

5. Let the dough rise – Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rise for 40-50 minutes or until it doubles in volume.

6. Divide and roll – After the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal parts. Roll each part into a thin sheet (about 5 mm thick). Brush each sheet with melted butter, then roll them into croissants.

7. Arrange on a tray – Place the formed croissants on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them to rise. Let them rise for another 20 minutes.

8. Prepare for baking – Before placing the croissants in the oven, brush them with beaten egg and sprinkle poppy seeds on top for a delicious and crispy appearance.

9. Bake the croissants – Preheat the oven to a medium temperature (180 degrees Celsius) and bake the croissants for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden and fluffy.

10. Cooling – Once baked, remove the croissants from the oven and let them cool on a rack before enjoying.

Serving and variations

Fluffy croissants can be served plain, but you can customize them to your liking. Try filling them with apricot jam, melted chocolate, or ground nuts before rolling. You can also use various flavors, such as cinnamon or lemon zest, to give them a unique taste.

For an extra treat, serve the croissants with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a fragrant tea. They are also perfect for a weekend brunch, alongside a fresh fruit salad.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but you will need to adjust the amount. Typically, 7-8 g of dry yeast is equivalent to one cube of fresh yeast.

2. How can I tell when the croissants are baked?
The croissants are ready when they are golden on the surface and sound hollow when tapped gently on the bottom.

3. Can I freeze the croissants?
Yes, the croissants can be frozen. Let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. When you want to consume them, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven.

Nutritional benefits

Fluffy croissants, while a treat, can be integrated into a balanced diet. The flour provides carbohydrates that are essential for energy, while the butter and egg contribute healthy fats and proteins. Depending on the chosen filling, you can also add vitamins and minerals, such as those from fruits.

In conclusion, simple fluffy croissants are a versatile and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for any occasion. So, don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe and enjoy the moments spent in the kitchen, creating unforgettable memories with loved ones. Bon appétit!