Print

Gipfeli Recipe: Master the Swiss Crescent Pastry at Home

gipfeli-recipe-homemade.webp

Enjoy this authentic Swiss Gipfeli recipe, featuring flaky, tender crescent pastries made with simple ingredients and traditional techniques. Perfect for breakfast or a special treat!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g all-purpose or high-protein bread flour
  • 250ml warm milk
  • 50g granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast or fresh yeast
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt
  • 250g unsalted European-style butter, cold and cut into pieces
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Extra flour for rolling

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast:
    In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. Mix the Dough:
    In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast-milk mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough:
    Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise:
    Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  5. Laminate with Butter:
    Roll the dough into a large rectangle. Evenly distribute the cold butter pieces over one half. Fold the other half over the butter, sealing the edges.
  6. Rolling and Folding:
    Roll the dough out again into a rectangle. Fold it into thirds like a letter. Repeat this rolling and folding process two more times, chilling the dough for 15–20 minutes between each fold if the butter softens.
  7. Chill the Dough:
    Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  8. Shape the Gipfeli:
    Roll the chilled dough into a large rectangle (about 4mm thick). Cut into triangles. Starting from the wide end, roll each triangle up to form a crescent shape.
  9. Second Rise:
    Place the shaped Gipfeli on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a damp towel and let rise for 30 minutes.
  10. Egg Wash and Bake:
    Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Brush Gipfeli with beaten egg. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.
  11. Cool and Serve:
    Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy plain, or fill with your favorite sweet or savory fillings

Notes

  • Keep Butter Cold: Cold butter is essential for flaky layers. If the dough gets warm, chill it before continuing.
  • Don’t Rush the Process: Allow enough time for rising and chilling for the best texture.
  • Customize Fillings: Try sweet jams, chocolate, or savory cheese and herbs.
  • Make Ahead: Shape and freeze unbaked Gipfeli for fresh pastries any morning.
  • Serving Suggestions: Enjoy with coffee, tea, or fresh juice. Pair with fruit, cheese, or a light salad for a Swiss-inspired meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: Gipfeli Recipe