Gipfeli Recipe: Flaky Swiss Croissants for a Perfect Breakfast
Gipfeli, also known as Swiss croissants, are a delightful breakfast treat that’s flakier than the French croissant but just as delicious. These buttery, crescent-shaped pastries are perfect with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Unlike traditional croissants, Gipfeli can be sweet or savory, making them versatile for any breakfast spread. Follow this easy recipe to enjoy the authentic taste of Switzerland right in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Gipfeli Recipe
This recipe is your gateway to a taste of Switzerland! Whether you’re craving a buttery, flaky breakfast pastry or a savory snack, Gipfeli delivers. The dough is simple to make, and with a little patience, you’ll be rewarded with golden, perfectly crisp layers. This recipe is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require any fancy techniques.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour – 2 ½ cups
- Milk – 1 cup, warm (around 110°F or 45°C)
- Active dry yeast – 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet)
- Sugar – 2 tablespoons
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Butter – 1/2 cup, cold and cut into small cubes
- Egg – 1, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, add flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until it forms a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 3: Roll out the dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Dot with cold butter cubes, fold the dough over, and roll out again.
- Step 4: Fold the dough into thirds like a letter, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Repeat the folding process two more times to create layers.
- Step 5: Roll the dough out one last time into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into triangles.
- Step 6: Starting from the wide end, roll up each triangle tightly to form a crescent shape. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 7: Brush each Gipfeli with beaten egg for a shiny finish. Let them rise for 20 minutes.
- Step 8: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the Gipfeli for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and puffed up.
- Step 9: Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Gipfeli
- Use cold butter: Keeping the butter cold ensures flaky layers in your Gipfeli.
- Don’t overwork the dough: Handle the dough gently to avoid tough pastries.
- Let the dough rest: Chilling the dough between folds is key for achieving those flaky layers.
- Serve fresh: Gipfeli are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. You can also reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes.
Filling Variations
While traditional Gipfeli are plain, you can experiment with different fillings to suit your taste:
- Sweet: Add a spoonful of apricot jam, chocolate, or Nutella before rolling.
- Savory: Try ham and cheese, spinach and feta, or smoked salmon with cream cheese.
- Nutty Delight: Spread some almond paste or hazelnut spread for a nutty twist.
Serving Suggestions
Gipfeli are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a midday snack. Serve them with:
- Fresh fruit and yogurt for a light breakfast
- A side of scrambled eggs and bacon for a hearty brunch
- Accompanied by a cappuccino or a cup of hot chocolate for an afternoon treat
Health Benefits of Gipfeli
While Gipfeli are an indulgence, they can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Using quality ingredients like fresh butter, whole milk, and minimal sugar can make a difference in both taste and nutritional value. Additionally, making Gipfeli at home allows you to control the amount of sugar and salt, making them a slightly healthier option compared to store-bought pastries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before rolling and shaping.
2. How do I store leftover Gipfeli?
Store leftover Gipfeli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.
3. Can I freeze Gipfeli?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked Gipfeli. Once shaped, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
These homemade Gipfeli are a delicious way to start your day with a taste of Switzerland. Whether you enjoy them plain, sweet, or savory, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, these flaky pastries will impress your family and friends!
You might also find this recipe delicious: Chocolate Chunk Banana Bread Recipe
Gipfeli
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter cubed
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add flour and salt. Mix to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Roll dough into a rectangle. Dot with butter cubes, fold over, and roll out again.
- Fold into thirds, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Repeat twice.
- Roll dough into a large rectangle, cut into triangles. Roll from wide end to form crescents.
- Brush with egg wash and let rise for 20 minutes.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden.
Photo by @purzlbaum