Unlocking the Secrets of Delicious Homemade Croissants: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients:

• 500g croissant dough (available in most supermarkets)
• 100g butter (for laminating)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• A little flour for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preparation of the dough:

   • Take the croissant dough out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften slightly.
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

2. Preparation of the laminating butter:

   • Place a sheet of plastic wrap on your work surface and put the butter in the center.
   • Cover the butter with another sheet of plastic wrap.
   • Use a rolling pin to flatten the butter, shaping it into a square about 15cm (6 inches) on each side.

3. Assembly of the dough and butter:

   • Roll out the croissant dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Make sure the dough is cold.
   • Place the butter square in the center of the dough.
   • Fold the edges of the dough over the butter to completely encase it.
   • Gently roll out the dough into a large rectangle and then fold it into thirds, like folding a letter.
   • Turn the dough a quarter turn and repeat the rolling and folding process.
   • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 30 minutes.

4. Shaping the croissants:

   • Once the dough has chilled, roll it out into a large rectangle about 0.5cm (0.2 inches) thick.
   • Cut the dough into triangles and roll them up, starting from the wide base of the triangle.
   • Place the croissants on the baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

5. Egg wash and baking:

   • Beat the egg and brush it over the croissants to give them a golden finish.
   • Bake the croissants in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and well puffed.

6. Enjoy:

   • Let them cool slightly before enjoying your homemade croissants. They are delicious for breakfast or a delightful snack.