Soft croissants with jam

Soft Croissants with Jam - A Recipe that Combines Tradition and Comfort

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Number of servings: 12 croissants

Croissants with jam are a delight that reminds us of family moments and the little joys of everyday life. These fluffy treats are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack during the day. This recipe brings together simple yet essential ingredients to achieve an exceptional result.

Let's embark on the cooking adventure!

Necessary ingredients:

- 550 g of flour
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (25 g)
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 300 ml of warm milk
- 30 g of melted butter (plus extra for greasing)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- Strawberry jam (or your favorite jam)
- 1 egg (for brushing)

Preparing the dough:

1. Sifting the flour: Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step is not only to remove any impurities but also to aerate the flour, making the dough fluffier.

2. Activating the yeast: In the center of the flour, create a well. Here, add the freshly dissolved yeast in 50 ml of warm milk (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast), along with the two tablespoons of honey. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.

3. Mixing the ingredients: Once the yeast is activated, add the remaining warm milk, vanilla sugar, salt, and melted butter. Gently mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until the ingredients begin to combine.

4. Kneading the dough: Transfer the mixture to a work surface and knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and non-sticky. If necessary, you can add a little flour, but avoid adding too much, as you want a soft and fluffy dough.

5. Rising the dough: Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Shaping the croissants:

6. Forming the circle: After the dough has risen, transfer it to a work surface greased with a little oil. Take a large piece of dough and roll it into a circle with a diameter of about 30 cm. Use a sharp knife or a grater to cut the circle into triangles (12-16, depending on the desired size of the croissants).

7. Filling with jam: In the center of each triangle, place a teaspoon of strawberry jam (or your favorite jam). You can experiment with different fillings, such as peach jam, plums, or even chocolate for a more decadent version.

8. Rolling the croissants: Start rolling the triangles from the wider base towards the pointed tip. Make sure to shape them well so that the filling doesn't leak during baking. Place the croissants on a greased baking tray, leaving enough space between them to expand.

Baking:

9. Brushing with egg: Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush each croissant with a thin layer. This will give them a golden appetizing color and a crispy texture on the outside.

10. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the croissants for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and fluffy. It is essential to keep an eye on them, as every oven is different.

11. Cooling: Once the croissants are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Don't forget to enjoy their inviting aroma that will fill the entire house!

Serving:

Croissants with jam are best served warm, straight from the oven. You can accompany them with a cup of warm milk or a cup of fragrant tea. They are also delicious with a serving of whipped cream or ice cream for a more decadent dessert.

Practical tips:

- Always use fresh ingredients; choosing a quality jam will make a difference in the final taste.
- If you have more time, you can let the dough rise even longer, which will improve its texture.
- Substitute strawberry jam with apple compote or chocolate cream to create interesting variations.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to use the appropriate amount (about 7 g) and activate it according to the instructions on the package.

- Can I freeze the croissants?
Yes, unbaked croissants can be frozen. Place them in an airtight container and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

- How can I enhance the flavor of the croissants?
You can add grated lemon or orange zest to the dough for a fresh note. Additionally, vanilla or cinnamon can add a wonderful aroma.

These soft croissants with jam are a delight that brings a touch of joy in every bite. Whether you enjoy them alone or share them with loved ones, they are sure to bring smiles to everyone's faces. So put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious culinary experience!