There’s something purely magical about biting into a warm, flaky croissant. That golden, buttery crust with soft, airy layers inside transports you straight to a cozy Parisian café. But what if you could enjoy these delicate delights fresh out of your own oven?
In this in-depth Homemade Croissant Baking Guide, we’re teaching you how to make Croissant Broodjes—delicate croissant rolls filled with sweet or savory goodness. Whether you’re filling yours with cheese, chocolate, creamy chicken pie, or even a hint of coconut cream, this recipe is your passport to becoming a croissant pro.
Let’s explore the step-by-step croissant baking process so you can achieve bakery-level results at home. We’ll also share bonus baking tips, filling ideas, and even how these rolls tie into comforting classics like cream cheese bread, coconut bread, and inventive dandelion recipes.
🥐 What Are Croissant Broodjes?
“Broodjes” is a Dutch word for “small breads” or “sandwiches,” and when paired with croissants, it refers to small filled croissants—mini masterpieces you can serve at brunch, breakfast, or as a snack. These croissant broodjes can be sweet or savory and are typically baked fresh and enjoyed warm.
🛒 Ingredients: Make Croissants from Scratch
Making croissants is all about patience, quality ingredients, and proper folding techniques. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Dough:
- 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 60g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 10g (2 tsp) salt
- 10g (1 tbsp) instant yeast
- 300ml (1¼ cups) cold whole milk
- 30g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
- 250g (1 cup + 2 tbsp) cold unsalted butter (for laminating)
Optional Fillings:
- Shredded cheese & herbs (for savory)
- Ham & creamy chicken pie filling
- Cream cheese & jam (for sweet)
- Coconut cream & sugar (coconut bread-inspired)
- Dandelion honey or dandelion jam
For Brushing:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tbsp milk
🧈 Equipment You’ll Need
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Ruler (for cutting even triangles)
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- Plastic wrap
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Croissant Baking Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast (keep yeast away from salt at first).
- Add Milk and Butter: Add cold milk and softened butter. Mix until dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Knead by hand or mixer until the dough is smooth and elastic—about 8 minutes.
- Shape and Chill: Flatten the dough into a rectangle, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Butter Block
- Cut the cold butter into slabs and arrange on parchment paper.
- Cover with another piece of parchment and gently pound it into a flat rectangle (about 15×15 cm or 6×6 inches).
- Chill the butter block for 30 minutes, making sure it’s pliable but cold.
Step 3: Laminating the Dough
Here’s where the magic happens—the lamination creates the croissant’s signature layers.
- Roll the chilled dough into a 30×30 cm (12×12 inch) square.
- Place the butter block in the center, diagonally, and fold the dough over like an envelope.
- Roll the dough gently into a 60 cm (24 inch) rectangle.
- Fold into thirds, like a business letter. That’s your first turn.
- Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
Repeat this process two more times (for a total of 3 folds), chilling 30 minutes between each.
🔥 Croissant Baking Tips and Tricks:
- Always roll gently so you don’t press the butter out.
- Keep everything cold to prevent melting.
- Chill between folds to maintain distinct layers.
Step 4: Shape the Croissant Broodjes
- Roll dough into a large rectangle (about 25×60 cm or 10×24 inches).
- Cut into triangles (base about 9 cm wide).
- If filling, place a small amount of filling (cheese, ham, cream cheese, etc.) near the wide end.
- Gently roll from wide end to point.
- Place each roll on a parchment-lined baking sheet, point side down.
Step 5: Proofing
- Lightly cover the rolls with plastic wrap or a tea towel.
- Let rise at room temperature (ideally 24°C/75°F) for 2 hours, or until puffy and jiggly.
🧊 Cold Proof Option:
You can also proof overnight in the fridge for richer flavor. Let them come to room temp for 30–45 minutes before baking.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Glory
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Whisk egg yolk and milk for the egg wash. Brush croissants gently.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until deeply golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm.
🧁 Filling Ideas – From Savory to Sweet
Savory Favorites:
- Creamy Chicken Pie: Mix shredded cooked chicken with white sauce and herbs.
- Herbed Cheese: Use gouda, mozzarella, or feta with thyme or oregano.
Sweet Treats:
- Cream Cheese Bread-Inspired: Sweetened cream cheese and fruit jam.
- Coconut Bread Vibe: Coconut cream, desiccated coconut, and a touch of sugar.
- Dandelion Delight: Use dandelion honey or jam for a floral twist.
💡 Pro Tips: Croissant Baking Tips and Tricks
- Don’t skip chilling: Cold dough = flaky layers.
- Use European-style butter: Higher fat content equals better lamination.
- Proof patiently: Under-proofed croissants won’t puff properly.
- Use steam: Place a pan of hot water in the oven to create steam for puffier croissants.
🥣 Variations on Croissant Broodjes
1. Mini Creamy Chicken Croissant Pockets
Turn this into a hearty lunch by using creamy chicken pie filling and shaping the dough into square pockets instead of crescent rolls.
2. Cream Cheese Coconut Croissants
Inspired by cream cheese bread and coconut bread, fill with a blend of whipped cream cheese, powdered sugar, and toasted coconut.
3. Dandelion Honey Glazed Broodjes
Drizzle warm dandelion syrup over freshly baked croissants. Garnish with edible dandelion petals for a whimsical finish.
🧺 How to Store and Reheat
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for 1–2 days.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked or baked croissants for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 8–10 minutes or until warm and crisp.
🧾 Nutrition Per Plain Croissant (Estimate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 270 |
| Fat | 17g |
| Carbs | 24g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Note: Fillings will increase nutritional content depending on ingredients.
📌 Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever wondered how to make croissants that rival your favorite patisserie, this guide has all the tools and croissant baking tips and tricks you need. These croissant broodjes bring elegance to your table and can be easily personalized—whether you crave the richness of creamy chicken, the sweetness of cream cheese coconut, or the earthiness of dandelion-infused fillings.
And once you master this dough, you can expand into other delicious bakes like cream cheese bread, coconut bread, or even pastries using dandelion recipes for a botanical spin.
So roll up those sleeves, grab your butter, and start baking!
