Classic French Croissants

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic French Croissants.

1. Step 1

   To start your croissant adventure, grab a small bowl and mix together warm water, yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar.

2. Step 2

   Let this sit for about five minutes until the yeast softens and forms a lovely creamy foam on top.

3. Step 3

   In a larger mixing bowl, measure out your flour.

4. Step 4

   In another bowl, combine warm milk, two teaspoons of sugar, and a pinch of salt.

5. Step 5

   Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Pour the milk mixture, the foamy yeast mixture, and a splash of vegetable oil into the flour.

6. Step 6

   Mix it all up until it’s well combined, then knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic.

7. Step 7

   Once your dough is ready, cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot until it triples in size—this should take about three hours.

8. Step 8

   After the first rise, gently deflate the dough and let it rise again until it doubles in size, which will take another three hours.

9. Step 9

   When that’s done, give the dough a gentle deflate and pop it in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to chill.

10. Step 10

    While the dough is cooling, take your chilled butter and massage it until it’s soft and pliable, but not greasy.

11. Step 11

    Roll your dough out into a rectangle measuring 14 by 8 inches, then spread the softened butter over the top two-thirds, leaving a little margin around the edges.

12. Step 12

    Now, fold the unbuttered third over the middle third, and then fold the buttered top third down over that.

13. Step 13

    Turn the dough 90 degrees so the folds are on the left and right sides.

14. Step 14

    Roll it out again to a 14 by 6-inch rectangle and fold it into thirds once more.

15. Step 15

    Lightly sprinkle some flour on it, place it in a resealable plastic bag, and let it chill in the fridge for two hours.

16. Step 16

    After the chilling time, take the dough out, sprinkle it with a bit more flour, and gently deflate it.

17. Step 17

    Roll it out to a 14 by 6-inch rectangle again and fold it one last time.

18. Step 18

    Turn it 90 degrees and repeat the rolling and folding process.

19. Step 19

    Wrap it up and chill for another two hours to let those layers develop beautifully.

20. Step 20

    Now, it’s time to preheat your oven to a sizzling 475°F (245°C).

21. Step 21

    To shape your croissants, roll the dough out into a 20 by 5-inch rectangle.

22. Step 22

    Cut this in half crosswise and set one half aside in the fridge while you work with the other half.

23. Step 23

    Roll the remaining half into a 15 by 5-inch rectangle and cut it into three 5 by 5-inch squares.

24. Step 24

    Slice each square diagonally to create triangles.

25. Step 25

    To shape your croissants, lightly roll each triangle to elongate the point, making it about 7 inches long.

26. Step 26

    Grab the two points of the triangle and gently stretch them as you roll the dough up towards the point, creating that classic croissant shape.

27. Step 27

    Place your beautifully shaped croissants on a baking sheet, giving them a slight curve.

28. Step 28

    Allow them to rise until they’re puffy and light.

29. Step 29

    In a small bowl, whisk together an egg and a tablespoon of water to create a shiny egg wash.

30. Step 30

    Brush this mixture over your croissants for that golden finish.

31. Step 31

    Now, it’s time to bake! Pop them in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they’re crisp, flaky, and a gorgeous golden brown.

32. Step 32

    Enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as you await your delicious homemade croissants!.