Known in France as croissants de boulanger, this yeasted dough is layered with butter and given a succession of folds that create the distinctive profile of classic croissants. Light and airy and shatteringly crisp, with a deeply caramelized buttery flavor, these croissants are a labor of love that’s absolutely worth the time. Time Estimates Prep Time: 45 minutes (active working time) Bake Time: 40 minutes Total Time: 7 hours (including all resting periods) Yield: 4 pounds dough, enough for 24 croissants Ingredients Dough 2 large eggs plus enough warm water to make 2 cups (454g) of liquid 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar, divided 5 1/2 to 6 cups (660g to 720g) all-purpose flour 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast 2 tablespoons (28g) butter, melted 1/2 cup (56g) dry milk, optional 1 scant tablespoon (16g) table salt 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, optional (for sweet pastry) Butter Block 30 tablespoons (425g) unsalted butter, cool to the touch 3/4 teaspoon table salt 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour Directions Make the Dough Put the eggs and water in a large mixing bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of the sugar, 3 cups (362g) of the flour, and the yeast. Mix until well blended; set aside to let the sponge work. Make the Butter Block Cut the butter into 1-inch chunks and combine with the salt and flour at low speed in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment just until smooth, with no lumps. Be careful not to beat too much; you don’t want to incorporate any air. ...
