Homemade Strawberry Croissant Recipe

The humble croissant, a timeless icon of French pastry, gets a vibrant makeover with the introduction of juicy strawberries. This delectable treat is more than just a breakfast pastry; it's a symphony of textures and flavors, perfect for indulging any time of day. So, grab your apron and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible strawberry croissants!

Ingredients:

• For the Croissant Dough:

• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup cubed unsalted butter (55 g)
• 1/4 cup (50 ml) ice water
• 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• For the Strawberry Filling:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon strawberry jam (optional)

• For the Finishing Touches:

• Egg wash (1 tablespoon milk with 1 egg yolk beaten)
• Granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. Make the Croissant Dough: Combine flour and salt in a large bowl. cut in the butter until the mixture is the consistency of coarse crumbs. Add the ice water gradually, mixing until a dough forms.On a slightly floured surface, knead the dough just long enough to make it smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and after that refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
2. Prepare the Strawberry Filling: In a small saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and becomes jam-like. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. If using strawberry jam, stir it into the cooled filling for extra flavor and sweetness.
3. Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the dough to a thin rectangle on a surface sprinkled with flour. Spread the strawberry filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border at the edge. Roll the dough up tightly from the long side, starting with the short edge. Pinch the ends to seal.
4. Shape and Proof: Curve the rolled dough into a crescent shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle generously with granulated sugar. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and place in a warm place for 30 minutes.
5. Bake and Enjoy: Bake the croissants for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information:

Per croissant (approximate):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Sugar: 20 g
• Protein: 5 g

Tips for Success:

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Ensure your ice water is truly cold for a flakier dough.
• Don't overwork the dough; gentle handling is key.
• Let the croissants cool slightly before slicing to prevent the filling from oozing out.
• Get creative with fillings! Try other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even chocolate chips.

Conclusion:

The strawberry croissant is a delightful fusion of classic pastry and fresh fruit, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its buttery layers, sweet and tangy filling, and irresistible aroma, this treat is sure to become a regular in your baking repertoire. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the irresistible allure of the strawberry croissant!