Croissants with nectarine jam
Fluffy Croissants with Nectarine Jam
Total preparation time: 2 hours
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12 croissants
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary adventure! In this recipe, we will create soft and fragrant croissants filled with nectarine jam that will fill your home with enticing aromas. These croissants are perfect for serving at breakfast, as a snack between meals, or even at a gathering with friends. Let’s dive into the cooking process and discover how to achieve a perfect result!
Ingredients
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 250 ml lukewarm milk
- 2-3 tablespoons sour cream
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 1 jar of nectarine jam (approximately 300 g)
- 1 egg for brushing the croissants
A Brief History of the Recipe
Croissants are a traditional pastry found in various forms and fillings across many cultures. They are often associated with moments of celebration and conviviality. Whether filled with jam, cheese, or chocolate, croissants are ideal for bringing a touch of joy to each day. By using nectarine jam, we add a sweet and fruity flavor, perfect to be enjoyed alongside a cup of tea or coffee.
Preparation Steps
1. Preparing the Dough:
Start by preparing the starter. If you have a bread machine, add all the ingredients in the following order: lukewarm milk, egg yolks mixed with sour cream, melted butter, salt, sugar, and flour. Finally, crumble the yeast over the flour and start the dough program. If you don’t have a bread machine, don’t worry! In a bowl, mix the yeast with the lukewarm milk and sugar. Let it rise for 10 minutes.
2. Kneading:
In a large bowl, place the flour mixed with salt. Make a well in the center and add the risen starter, egg yolks, sour cream, and melted butter. Knead the dough with your hands or with a mixer fitted with dough hooks until it becomes elastic and smooth. This step may take about 8-10 minutes. Then, place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 30-40 minutes or until it doubles in size.
3. Shaping the Croissants:
Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured work surface. Divide it into 12 equal portions. Take each piece and roll it out into a triangle shape. At the base of the triangle, place a tablespoon of nectarine jam and gently roll it up, starting from the base of the triangle towards the tip to form the croissant. Place the croissants on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
4. Second Rise:
Cover the croissants with a towel and let them rise again for 20-30 minutes, until they double in size. This step is essential for achieving fluffy and airy croissants.
5. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 170°C. Beat the egg in a bowl and brush each croissant with a thin layer of beaten egg. This will give your croissants a shiny and golden appearance. Place the tray in the oven and bake the croissants for 15 minutes. After this period, leave the oven door slightly ajar and let the croissants bake for another 5 minutes to make them even fluffier.
6. Serving:
Remove the croissants from the oven and let them cool slightly before enjoying. You can serve them warm alongside a fragrant tea or aromatic coffee. They are also delicious cold, and if you want to add a touch of elegance, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top.
Practical Tips
- Quality of Ingredients: Use high-quality flour for the best results. Type 650 or 000 flour is ideal for baking.
- Milk: Ensure the milk is lukewarm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Jam: You can experiment with different types of jam, such as peach or plum, to add a personal touch to your recipe.
- Storage: Croissants can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their fluffy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but you will need about 10 g. Mix the dry yeast with the flour before adding the other ingredients.
2. What other fillings can I use?
Croissants can be filled with sweet cheese, chocolate, nuts, or even grated apples to vary the flavor.
3. How can I make the croissants vegan?
Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine and use plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat) instead of cow's milk. Replace the egg yolks with a mixture of flaxseeds and water (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds + 2.5 tablespoons of water = 1 egg yolk).
4. Can I freeze the croissants?
Yes, croissants can be frozen after they have completely cooled. Place them in a freezer bag and make sure to label them. When you want to consume them, let them thaw at room temperature and reheat them.
These croissants with nectarine jam are truly a delicacy that will bring you many smiles. Whether you prepare them for family or friends, they are sure to be appreciated by everyone. So, embark on this culinary adventure and enjoy the final result! Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 500 g white flour, 1 cup milk (250 ml), 2-3 tablespoons sour cream, 3 egg yolks, 1 teaspoon salt, 3 tablespoons sugar, 2 tablespoons butter, a small cube of fresh yeast, a jar of jam (I used nectarine), 1 egg for brushing the croissants.
