Butter Croissants From Scratch

Name: Butter Croissants From Scratch
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 5 h
Yield: 12 croissants
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 tablespoon instant yeast; 1 1/4 cups whole milk, warmed; 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and divided; 1 large egg, for egg wash

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I absolutely love making butter croissants from scratch! There’s something truly rewarding about transforming simple ingredients into these flaky, buttery pastries. The aroma of freshly baked croissants fills my kitchen and instantly lifts my mood. Plus, the satisfaction of rolling the dough and achieving that perfect flaky texture is unlike anything else. Whether for breakfast or a special treat, these croissants delight both family and friends. I can't wait to share this delicious recipe with you, so let’s dive in!

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-02-15T07:29:36.393Z

When I first attempted making croissants, I was both excited and nervous. After experimenting with different techniques, I found that allowing the dough to rest and chill between folds drastically improved the flakiness. This method helps develop the layers while keeping the butter from melting into the dough too soon.

What really made a difference was using high-quality butter. The richer the butter, the more flavorful your croissants become. I always opt for European-style butter, as it contains a higher fat content and adds that luxurious taste I crave in a good croissant.

Why You'll Love These Croissants

Flaky, buttery layers that melt in your mouth
Perfectly golden brown crust for a delightful crunch
A baking project that impresses family and friends

Understanding the Dough

The dough is the backbone of your croissants, and achieving the right texture is crucial for success. When mixing ingredients, ensure your milk is warmed to about 110°F (43°C); this helps activate the yeast without killing it. Kneading the dough for a solid 10 minutes is essential to develop gluten, resulting in that desired chewy texture. It's important that the dough becomes smooth and elastic, making it easier to roll out later.

Allowing the dough to rise properly is another vital step. You should cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap in a warm place to create a cozy environment. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the dough near a preheated oven or on a warm (not hot) stovetop. The goal is for it to double in size, which typically takes about an hour. This proves the yeast is active and is key for creating those flakey layers.

Mastering Lamination

Laminating the dough is where the magic happens. The process of encasing the cold butter in the dough is crucial for achieving those signature layers. It's important that your butter remains cold; if it becomes too soft, it will mix with the dough rather than create distinct layers. When rolling and folding the dough, aim for an even thickness—about 1/2 inch—this ensures uniform layers and baking results. Don’t rush this step; chill for at least 30 minutes between folds.

During each fold, take care to seal the edges well to keep the butter from leaking. A common mistake is overworking the dough during the rolling phase, which can lead to toughness. Instead, use a light touch and let the dough relax if it resists. You might notice that the dough becomes easier to work with after a short rest. Trust this process; each fold multiplies the buttery layers, resulting in that irresistible flakiness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a successful croissant-making adventure:

Dough Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 1/4 cups whole milk, warmed
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and divided
1 large egg, for egg wash

Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready before you start for a smoother process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect butter croissants:

Prepare Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add the warm milk and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth, then shape into a ball and place in a greased bowl. Cover and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Laminate the Dough

Place cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper and pound it into a 1/2 inch thick rectangle. Roll out the risen dough into a large rectangle. Place the butter in the center, folding the dough over to encase the butter completely. Roll out the dough again, folding it into thirds like a letter. Chill for 30 minutes.

Shape Croissants

Roll the dough out to a larger rectangle and cut it into triangles. Starting from the base of each triangle, roll them up towards the tip, forming croissants. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and allow to rise for another 1-2 hours.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush the croissants with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before enjoying.

Serve warm with your favorite jam or butter!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle a little sea salt on top before baking for added flavor.

Serving and Enjoying

Croissants are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but they can also be served warm later in the day. For an elegant touch, consider pairing them with a fresh fruit preserve or a simple honey drizzle. You can also slice them open and fill them with savory ingredients like smoked salmon and cream cheese or ham and cheese for a delightful brunch option.

If you have leftover croissants, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, for longer storage, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Variations and Tips

Feel free to experiment with different croissant fillings. For a sweet twist, add chocolate chips or almond paste before rolling the triangles. Consider using flavored butter, such as garlic or herb-infused, to enhance savory rolls. These variations can elevate your croissants and impress guests beyond the classic recipe.

When scaling this recipe, remember that the dough requires a sufficient rise time when increased or decreased. Whichever size batch you choose, the key remains in handling the dough delicately to ensure the layers form properly. And for an extra shine, brush the croissants with egg wash before baking; this gives them a beautiful golden hue and an appealing finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought puff pastry instead?

Yes, but the flavor and texture will be different than made from scratch.

→ How do I store leftover croissants?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze croissants?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before or after baking. Just remember to wrap them tightly.

→ What can I serve with croissants?

They pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or as part of a brunch spread with cheeses and fruits.