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Croissants are more than just a delightful pastry; they are a symbol of culinary artistry and a staple of French culture. Originating from Austria and gaining popularity in France, croissants have become synonymous with breakfast and brunch, embodying the delicate balance of buttery, flaky layers that make each bite a moment of indulgence. The allure of homemade croissants lies in their freshness and the ability to customize them according to taste, but the thought of making them from scratch can often feel daunting, requiring meticulous attention to detail and a considerable time investment.

Buttery Croissants – Easy Shortcut Recipe!

Discover the joy of baking with an easy shortcut for buttery croissants using frozen puff pastry. This simple recipe allows you to create delicious, flaky pastries without the typical time commitment. Learn about the essential ingredients and techniques for achieving that perfect golden finish. Customize your croissants with optional fillings like chocolate or almond paste. Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, this guide transforms your kitchen into a delightful bakery experience. Enjoy fresh homemade croissants with minimal effort!

Ingredients
  

1 (17.3 oz) package of frozen puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed

1 cup unsalted butter, softened (divided into 1/2 cup and 1/2 cup)

1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dusting)

1 large egg (beaten, for egg wash)

1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for sweetness)

Pinch of salt

Optional: 1/4 cup chocolate chips or almond paste for filling

Instructions
 

Prepare the Puff Pastry:

    - Unroll the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If it’s too sticky, dust it lightly with flour. Use a rolling pin to smooth it out and increase the size slightly.

      Make the Butter Layer:

        - Take 1/2 cup of softened butter and spread it evenly across one sheet of puff pastry, leaving a border of about half an inch around the edges.

          Fold and Roll:

            - Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top of the first, pressing down gently. Use a rolling pin to roll everything out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

              Create Layers:

                - With the long side of the rectangle facing you, fold the pastry into thirds (like a letter). Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour.

                  Shape the Croissants:

                    - Roll the chilled pastry into a larger rectangle (about 1/4 inch thick). Cut into triangles (base about 4 inches wide). If you want to add fillings like chocolate chips or almond paste, place them at the wide end of each triangle.

                      Rolling Up:

                        - Starting from the base of each triangle, roll the dough towards the tip, tucking the tip underneath the croissant to secure it. Place each croissant on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

                          Egg Wash and Rest:

                            - Brush the tops of the croissants with a beaten egg for a golden finish. Let them rest for about 30 minutes while you preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

                              Bake:

                                - Bake the croissants in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden and puffed.

                                  Serve:

                                    - Once baked, let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Enjoy your buttery croissants warm, or store them in an airtight container for a delightful treat later!

                                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 12 croissants