Fluffy croissants with jam

Fluffy Croissants with Jam

Who hasn't dreamed of a variety of fluffy, steaming croissants filled with delicious jam? These croissants are not just a treat but also a pleasant childhood memory for many of us. Making these delights is a joyful activity, and the aroma that fills the house while baking will make anyone feel at home. So, let's get to work!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 24 croissants

Ingredients for the dough:
- 600-700 g flour (type 650 wheat flour is ideal)
- 200 g yogurt (preferably natural, to add moisture and flavor)
- 100 ml lukewarm milk (to activate the yeast)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (helps with caramelization during baking)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to balance the sweetness)
- 25 g fresh yeast (or 7 g dry yeast)
- 4 tablespoons lard (or butter, for a different taste)
- 1 egg (for added richness and structure)

For the filling:
- Jam or preserve (preferably a thicker version, like plum jam or any favorite preserve)

Step by step:

1. Activating the yeast:
In a small cup, add the fresh yeast along with a teaspoon of sugar. Cover with a bit of lukewarm milk (not hot, as it can kill the yeast) and let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a crucial step, as activated yeast will ensure a fluffy texture.

2. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, add 600 g of flour, the risen yeast mixture, yogurt, the remaining milk, egg, salt, sugar, and lard. Using your hands, mix the ingredients until you have a smooth dough. You may need to add a tablespoon of flour if the dough is too sticky. The goal is to achieve a dough that is easy to handle and non-sticky.

3. Let the dough rise:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and place it in a warm, draft-free spot (for example, next to a radiator or in an oven preheated to a very low temperature). Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in volume, about 30-40 minutes.

4. Shaping the croissants:
Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. On a floured surface, roll each ball into a circle. Cut the circle into about 12 wedges (or 24 if you want smaller croissants).

5. Filling and rolling the croissants:
On each wedge, add a teaspoon of jam or preserve at the base of the wedge. Carefully roll each wedge from the base to the tip, forming the croissant. Place the croissants on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them to puff up during baking.

6. Baking the croissants:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the croissants for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden and well-browned. You will smell an inviting aroma throughout the house!

7. Finishing:
Once baked, remove the croissants from the oven and let them cool on a rack. You can dust them with powdered sugar for a more appealing look and an extra sweet touch.

Practical tips:
- Make sure the ingredients are at room temperature, especially the egg and yogurt, for a smooth dough.
- If you want to experiment, try replacing the jam with melted chocolate or cream cheese for a more decadent version.
- The croissants can be stored in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 3 days.

Nutrition and calories:
Each croissant contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on size and filling. These croissants are rich in carbohydrates, providing energy, as well as a moderate amount of protein from the egg and yogurt. Additionally, the yogurt adds beneficial probiotics for digestion.

Serving suggestions:
These croissants are perfect alongside a cup of tea or coffee during breakfast or as a snack throughout the day. They can be served with a vanilla sauce or whipped cream for a more sophisticated dessert.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust the amount of liquid.
- What can I do if I don't have fresh yeast?
You can use dry yeast, keeping in mind the proportions mentioned above.

These fluffy croissants with jam are a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for bringing a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Start cooking today and let the aroma and taste of these delights carry you away!

 Ingredients: for 24 croissants: Dough: 600-700 g flour, 200 g yogurt, 100 ml milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 25 g fresh yeast (or 7 g dry yeast), 4 tablespoons lard, 1 egg

 Tags:  fluffy croissants