Croissant Cookie Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of combining the buttery, flaky richness of a croissant with the sweet, delicate crunch of a cookie, then this Croissant Cookie Recipe is about to become your new obsession. This delightful treat brings together the best of both worlds: tender layers of laminated dough infused with just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of vanilla. Perfectly golden and irresistibly flaky, these croissant cookies are a feast for both the eyes and the palate, making them a sublime addition to any dessert table or afternoon tea.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Though this Croissant Cookie Recipe uses a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, each element plays a vital role in creating that perfect texture and flavor. From the cold butter that builds flaky layers to the yeast that gives the dough a gentle lift, every ingredient is essential for success.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your dough, providing structure and tenderness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Key to those flaky layers, make sure it stays cold for best results.
• 1/4 cup sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the cookie without overdoing it.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the buttery flavor.
• 1/2 cup milk: Activates the yeast and moistens the dough for softness.
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast: Gives a light rise, perfect for that tender croissant texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting aroma that elevates the flavor.
• 1 large egg: Provides richness and helps bind the dough together.
• 1 tablespoon water: Adds moisture to balance the dough consistency.

How to Make Croissant Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt together in a large bowl. This dry base sets the stage for all the magic that follows, ensuring your cookies have just the right balance of sweetness and seasoning.

Step 2: Cut Butter into Flour

Next, introduce the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it looks like coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces. These bits of butter are what create those iconic croissant-like layers when baked.

Step 3: Activate the Yeast

In a separate small bowl, combine milk with the instant yeast and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy. This step wakes up the yeast and is crucial for giving your Croissant Cookie Recipe its tender lift and flaky texture.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add the vanilla extract, large egg, and water into the yeast mixture, whisking to blend everything smoothly. This flavorful blend will add moisture and richness to the dough, complementing the buttery layers beautifully.

Step 5: Bring the Dough Together

Make a well in your dry ingredient bowl and pour in the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or your hands until the dough begins to clump together. Don’t worry if it feels a bit rough — that’s intentional to keep the layers light and flaky.

Step 6: Knead for Smoothness

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for about five minutes. The goal is to develop elasticity without overworking it. This effort helps create a dough that’s tender but strong enough for rolling and folding in the next steps.

Step 7: Rest the Dough

Shape your dough into a smooth ball, cover it with a towel or plastic wrap, and allow it to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. Resting relaxes the gluten and prepares the dough for easy rolling and folding.

Step 8: Roll and Fold

Roll your dough into a 1/4-inch thick rectangle on a floured surface. Fold it into thirds like a letter, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This lamination technique is repeated two more times — rolling out, folding, then chilling — to build delicate layers reminiscent of a classic croissant.

Step 9: Shape the Cookies

After the final fold and rest, roll out the dough again and cut it into your desired shapes, whether squares or circles. These bite-sized pieces will puff effortlessly in the oven, turning into flaky, scrumptious cookies.

Step 10: Prepare to Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange your cut dough pieces neatly, giving each piece room to expand and crisp up beautifully.

Step 11: Egg Wash for Shine

Brush a lightly beaten egg over the tops of the dough pieces. This simple step ensures a shiny, golden finish that makes these croissant cookies as visually appealing as they are delicious.

Step 12: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they’re puffed and golden brown. The oven’s heat does the rest, turning your carefully layered dough into flaky, light cookies that practically melt in your mouth.

Step 13: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set perfectly without losing that signature delicate crumb. Now, your Croissant Cookie Recipe is ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Croissant Cookie Recipe

Garnishes

These croissant cookies shine on their own but can be beautifully enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of melted chocolate. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also add delightful contrast and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pairing these cookies with a cup of strong coffee, creamy café latte, or fragrant tea elevates the experience, making for an inviting afternoon break. Light fruit preserves or a small serving of whipped cream make perfect accompaniments, adding bursts of flavor without overpowering the delicate cookie.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the croissant cookies on a tiered stand for a sophisticated tea-party vibe or layer them in a decorative glass jar for gifting. You can even sandwich a bit of chocolate ganache or jam between two cookies to create a mini dessert that’s sure to impress friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover croissant cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep their flaky texture intact. They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days to savor their fresh-baked charm.

Freezing

If you want to keep these cookies on hand for longer, freeze them in a sealed container or freezer bag. When properly stored, they can last up to a month without losing their delightful flavor or texture.

Reheating

To refresh frozen croissant cookies, thaw them at room temperature and then warm them for a few minutes in a 300°F (150°C) oven. This gently revives their crispness and buttery goodness without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use regular yeast instead of instant yeast in this Croissant Cookie Recipe?

Yes, you can, but you’ll need to proof regular yeast in warm milk for about 10 minutes until it’s bubbly before using, as it doesn’t activate as quickly as instant yeast.

Why is it important to keep the butter cold?

Cold butter helps create layers in the dough that puff up during baking and result in a flaky texture rather than a dense cookie.

Can I make the dough ahead and refrigerate it overnight?

Absolutely! After completing the folding steps, wrapping the dough tightly and refrigerating overnight can actually improve the flavor and ease of handling.

What is the best way to cut the dough for uniform cookies?

Using cookie cutters or a sharp knife on a lightly floured surface ensures clean edges and even cooking for your croissant cookies.

Are these cookies sweet enough on their own or do they need icing?

They have a lovely subtle sweetness that many enjoy as is, but a light glaze or dusting of sugar can add extra appeal if you prefer more sweetness.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Croissant Cookie Recipe a try, as it brings together two beloved pastries into one unforgettable treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something buttery and sweet, these cookies promise lots of love and smiles in every bite. Happy baking!

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