Classic Buttery Croissants

Instructions

1. 1

   **Prepare the dough**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Make a well in the center and pour in the warm milk and melted butter. Mix until a rough dough forms.

2. 2

   **Knead the dough**: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Shape it into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.

3. 3

   **Prepare the butter layer**: While the dough is rising, place the cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper. Using a rolling pin, pound and roll it into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Chill the butter in the refrigerator until firm.

4. 4

   **Laminate the dough**: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle (about 14x24 inches). Place the chilled butter in the center of the dough, folding the edges of the dough over the butter to encase it completely.

5. 5

   **Roll and fold**: Roll the dough out gently into a long rectangle, about 8x24 inches. Fold the dough into thirds like a letter (this is your first turn). Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

6. 6

   **Repeat folding**: Repeat the rolling and folding process two more times, chilling for 30 minutes between each turn.

7. 7

   **Shape the croissants**: After the final fold, roll the dough into a large rectangle and cut it into triangles (about 4-5 inches wide at the base). Starting from the base of each triangle, roll it tightly towards the point, shaping it into a crescent. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets, making sure the tips are tucked under.

8. 8

   **Proof the croissants**: Cover the croissants with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place until they have doubled in size, about 1-1.5 hours.

9. 9

   **Prepare the egg wash**: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until completely combined.

10. 10

    **Bake**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the croissants with the egg wash. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the croissants are golden brown and crispy.

11. 11

    **Cool and enjoy**: Allow them to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before indulging in the delicious flakiness of your homemade croissants!