Introduction
There’s something utterly comforting about freshly baked crescent rolls that fills the kitchen with a warm, buttery aroma. These delightful rolls are flaky on the outside and soft on the inside, making them the perfect accompaniment to any meal or simply enjoyed on their own with a pat of butter. Today, I’m excited to share with you a straightforward recipe that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the world of homemade crescent goodness!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy — this is your yeast waking up!
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add the softened butter to the flour mixture and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour in the yeast mixture along with the egg. Stir until a soft dough begins to form.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes, or until it feels smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size — the anticipation is part of the fun!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when the rolls are ready to bake.
- Roll out the risen dough into a large circle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into triangles, much like you would slice a pizza. Each triangle should be wide at the base and narrow at the tip.
- Starting from the wide end, roll each triangle up towards the point, forming beautiful crescents.
- Place the rolled crescent rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow them to rise again for another 30 minutes to puff up.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are a lovely golden brown — your kitchen will smell divine!
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider brushing the tops of the rolls with melted butter before baking. You can also sprinkle a little coarse sea salt or garlic powder for a savory twist. These crescent rolls are incredibly versatile; feel free to add herbs or cheese into the dough for a unique variation!
Cooking Techniques
The key to achieving the perfect crescent rolls is all in the rising. Make sure your dough is kept in a warm place to help it rise effectively. Kneading the dough properly ensures the rolls are light and fluffy, while baking them until golden brown gives you that delightful crispiness on the outside.
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out.
How do I store leftover rolls?
Keep unfinished rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to a month. Reheat in the oven to restore their flaky texture.
Conclusion
These homemade crescent rolls are a delightful treat that adds a touch of warmth to any meal or gathering. With a little love and patience, you’ll create flaky, buttery rolls that your family will adore. So why not roll up your sleeves and bake a batch today? Sharing these delicious crescents is sure to create smiles all around!