A simple, clear guide to make flaky homemade croissants at home.

introduction

This recipe shows you how to make classic homemade croissants with basic steps and simple ingredients. If you like warm pastries, you may also enjoy our best homemade cinnamon rolls for another easy bake.

why make this recipe

Making croissants at home gives you fresh, buttery pastries with real layers. You control the ingredients. The smell while baking feels great. Home croissants taste better than store-bought ones and you can make them plain or filled.

how to make Homemade Croissants

Follow these simple parts: ingredients and directions.

Ingredients :
4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon salt, 1 tablespoon instant yeast, 1 1/4 cups whole milk, warm, 1 cup unsalted butter, cold, 1 large egg, for egg wash

Directions :

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Gradually add warm milk and mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
Shape into a ball, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Roll out the cold butter into a rectangle. Roll out the dough into a larger rectangle and place the butter in the center.
Fold the dough over the butter, sealing the edges. Roll out and fold the dough (turning it like a book) several times to create layers.
Cut the dough into triangles, roll them up from the base to the tip to form croissants.
Place on a baking sheet, cover, and let rise for about 1 to 2 hours.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush croissants with egg wash.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving.

how to serve Homemade Croissants

Serve warm. Enjoy plain, with butter, jam, or cheese. These croissants also go well with soups from the list 27 best homemade soup recipes ever for a simple meal.

how to store Homemade Croissants

Cool fully before storing. Keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 1-2 days. For longer storage, freeze wrapped croissants for up to 1 month. Reheat in a warm oven to refresh layers.

tips to make Homemade Croissants

Keep butter and dough cold to make good layers.
Use a light hand when folding; do not press out the layers.
Chill between folds so butter stays firm.
Use a sharp knife to cut triangles to keep edges neat.
Do not overbake; watch for a deep golden color.

variation (if any)

Chocolate croissants: place a small bar of chocolate at the base before rolling.
Almond croissants: fill with almond paste and top with sliced almonds.
Cheese croissants: add a thin strip of cheese before rolling.

FAQs

Q: How long does making croissants take?
A: Active work takes about 45–60 minutes, but chilling adds 4+ hours or overnight.

Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Butter gives the best flavor and texture. Margarine may work but results differ.

Q: Do I need special flour?
A: No. Use all-purpose flour as listed. Bread flour can make a chewier croissant.

Q: Can I freeze croissants before baking?
A: Yes. Freeze shaped croissants on a sheet, then move to a bag. Bake from frozen but allow extra proofing time.

Conclusion

For another clear step-by-step guide and extra tips, check this detailed croissant tutorial: How to Make Croissants – Sally’s Baking Addiction.