Easy Croissant Recipe: Flaky, Buttery Perfection at Home

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Add the warm milk and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and knead the dough until smooth, about 5-7 minutes.
Let the Dough Rise:

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Roll Out the Dough:

Punch down the dough to release the air, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 10×15 inches in size.
Laminating the Dough:

Place the cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap and pound it with a rolling pin until it’s about 1/2 inch thick and forms a square. Place this cold butter square in the center of the dough rectangle. Fold the dough over the butter like an envelope, sealing the edges.
Rolling and Folding:

Roll the dough into a long rectangle, then fold it into thirds, like a letter. This is the first “fold.” Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 30 minutes to an hour. Repeat the rolling and folding process two more times, refrigerating between each fold.
Shape the Croissants:

After the final fold, roll the dough out into a large rectangle again, about 1/8-inch thick. Cut the dough into triangles. To shape the croissants, gently stretch each triangle and roll it up tightly from the wide end to the point.
Let the Croissants Rise:

Place the shaped croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another hour, or until they have doubled in size.
Egg Wash and Bake:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Beat the egg and brush it over the croissants for a golden, shiny finish. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the croissants are golden brown and crisp.
Serve:

Allow the croissants to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with butter, jam, or any filling of your choice!
Serving and Storage Tips: