The Lazy Baker’s Guide to Homemade Croissants That Are Soft, Buttery, and Totally Worth It
Homemade croissants have a reputation for being a weekend-long commitment. But this one-day croissant recipe simplifies the method without compromising on those buttery, soft layers. If making croissants has been sitting on your baking bucket list, this version skips the stress and gets you from dough to the oven in under two hours.
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Why This Croissant Recipe Works
This shortcut approach uses softened butter instead of the traditional cold block, making the folding process much easier for beginners. There’s no need for special tools or a full day of proofing. You’ll still get that golden, tender texture that makes freshly baked croissants so satisfying. It’s a great addition to your collection of homemade bread recipes, easy enough for a relaxed weekend or even a weekday morning.
Ingredients
See the recipe card for the complete list of ingredients and quantities.
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the warm milk to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
Step 2: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until smooth.
Step 3: Roll out the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
Step 4: Fold the dough into thirds, like a letter, then turn it 90 degrees and roll it out again into a rectangle. Repeat the folding process two more times, then wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Step 6: Roll out the chilled dough into a large rectangle and cut it into triangles. Roll each triangle from the wide end towards the tip to form croissants. Brush the tops of the croissants with egg wash for a shiny finish.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Allow these homemade croissants to cool slightly before serving.
Expert Tips
- If your kitchen is warm, chill the dough for 10–15 minutes between folds to keep the butter from melting too quickly.
- Don’t overfill the dough with butter, or it may leak during baking.
- For even baking, space the croissants well on the tray and rotate the sheet halfway through.
Croissant Ideas: Fillings and Flavor Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic version, try switching things up with these easy croissant ideas. Fold in a bit of filling before rolling, or add toppings before baking.
- White Chocolate Croissant: Add a piece of white chocolate to the center before rolling.
- Pistachio Croissant Filling: Mix pistachio paste with powdered sugar and spread a thin layer inside.
- Chocolate Croissant: Tuck in a few chocolate chips for a classic pain au chocolat feel.
- Candied Croissant: Brush with honey and sprinkle chopped candied orange peel before baking.
- Almond Croissant Recipe: Use a quick almond filling (almond flour, sugar, and butter) inside, and top with sliced almonds before baking.
- White Chocolate Pastry: Drizzle baked croissants with melted white chocolate for a café-style finish.
These variations make your homemade croissants feel just like something you’d find in a cozy café. Serve with a strong coffee or enjoy as part of a breakfast pastries spread.
How to Store and Reheat
Store any leftover croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place in a low oven (around 300℉) for 5 minutes. They’ll taste almost as good as fresh from the oven.
You can also freeze unbaked croissants. Shape them, freeze them on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the time.
Serve It Up
- With jam or honey for a classic breakfast pairing.
- Filled with ham and cheese for a quick, savory brunch.
- Split and toasted with butter for an easy weekday breakfast.
- As part of a cafe-style spread with fruit, coffee, and other breakfast pastries.
- Served homemade croissants alongside a latte for a cozy coffee break.
More Bread Recipes
- Nothing beats the flavor of fresh garlic butter naan! Simple to make and irresistibly soft, this recipe is perfect for pairing with curries, soups, or enjoying on its own. Your new favorite comfort bread is just a skillet away!
- Get ready to bake your own perfect French baguette with this simple, easy-to-follow recipe. The result is a crusty, golden exterior with a soft, airy interior—just like the baguettes you’d find in Parisian boulangeries.
- These Red Lentil Bread Rolls are next-level delicious! Made with pantry staples, they’re high-protein, gluten-free, and ready in a flash!
- Light, fluffy, buttery, and golden—these homemade buttermilk drop biscuits check all the right boxes. They’re easy to make, super satisfying, and a perfect side for just about any meal. You’ll want to make a double batch.
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet instant yeast (2¼ teaspoon)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup warm milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the warm milk to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
- Fold the dough into thirds, like a letter, then turn it 90 degrees and roll it out again into a rectangle. Repeat the folding process two more times, then wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375℉ and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the chilled dough into a large rectangle and cut it into triangles. Roll each triangle from the wide end towards the tip to form croissants.
- Place the croissants on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Brush the tops of the croissants with egg wash for a shiny finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the croissants to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your easy homemade croissants!
Notes
- If your kitchen is warm, chill the dough for 10–15 minutes between folds to keep the butter from melting too quickly.
- Don’t overfill the dough with butter, or it may leak during baking.
- For even baking, space the croissants well on the tray and rotate the sheet halfway through.
