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!
Author:Stacy
Prep Time:1 hour
Baking Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:2.5 hours
Total Time:53 minute
Yield:12 Gipfeli 1x
Category:Breakfast
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Swiss
Diet:Vegetarian
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
Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
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.
Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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.
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.
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.
Chill the Dough:
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
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.
Second Rise:
Place the shaped Gipfeli on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a damp towel and let rise for 30 minutes.
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.
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.