Quick croissants with butter and honey

Quick Butter and Honey Croissants

Welcome to the world of French delights! If you’re looking for the perfect start to your day, nothing compares to a warm serving of fluffy croissants, slathered with butter and honey. This quick yet sophisticated treat will transport you straight to the heart of Paris, and each bite will be an explosion of flavor and texture. Let’s discover together how to make these quick croissants with a simple and clear recipe that will make you feel like a true French chef.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 12 croissants

Ingredients needed:

- 1 small packet (13g) fresh yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 3/4 cup skim milk
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 5 cups flour
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1 beaten egg (for brushing)

The history of the croissant:

The croissant has a fascinating history, deeply rooted in European baking traditions. While we often associate croissants with France, their origin is believed to be linked to a pastry product from Austria. This dessert has evolved over time, becoming emblematic of French culinary culture. With its flaky layers and airy texture, the croissant is not just a simple pastry; it’s a tasting experience that brings joy and comfort.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the base dough:
Start by dissolving the yeast in warm water in a large bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes creamy and bubbles form. Add the milk, salt, one egg, sugar, and a measure of flour. Mix everything well until a fluffy dough forms, then let it rest.

Helpful tips: Make sure the water isn’t too hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast. Ideal temperatures are between 37-43°C.

2. Creating the butter crumbs:
In another bowl, mix the cold cubed butter with the remaining 4 cups of flour. Use your fingers or a fork to achieve a crumb-like texture, similar to that of breadcrumbs. Add the fluffy dough on top of this mixture and gently mix with a spatula until everything is well combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Trick: This step is essential to achieve fine, airy layers in the croissants. The refrigerator will help firm up the butter, creating those delicious layers.

3. Shaping the croissants:
After chilling the dough, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1 cm thick. Cut the sheet into small squares. Begin folding each square, making sure to eliminate the air inside. Use a cutter to make a small cut in the center of each square, then twist it several times to form a croissant.

Frequently asked question: Why is it important to twist each square? Twisting helps shape the croissant’s characteristic form and ensures an even texture.

4. Proofing the croissants:
Place the shaped croissants on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving 2 cm of space between them. Cover them with a damp towel and let them rise at room temperature until they double in size.

5. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 165 degrees Celsius. Brush the croissants with the beaten egg for a golden and appetizing crust. Bake them for 35 minutes, or until they turn golden and crispy.

Serving suggestion: For an extra burst of flavor, prepare a delicious syrup from a cube of butter, 4 tablespoons of honey, and 3 tablespoons of sugar, melting them together. After taking the croissants out of the oven, brush them with this syrup for an irresistible aroma.

6. Enjoy!
Quick butter and honey croissants are perfect for breakfast, served alongside a glass of fresh milk or a cup of aromatic coffee. Their fluffy and sweet taste will pamper you, bringing a smile to your face.

Nutritional benefits:
These croissants are rich in carbohydrates, providing you with the energy needed to start your day. The butter adds healthy fats, while honey is a natural source of antioxidants, contributing to a strong immune system.

Possible variations:
To add a personal touch to your recipe, you can experiment with various fillings. Try adding chocolate, fruit jam, or even ground almonds to create croissants with diverse flavors. Of course, don’t forget to adjust the baking time according to the filling you choose!

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking and enjoy the delights of this recipe. Don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family, because nothing compares to the joy of savoring a freshly made croissant at home! Bon appétit!