Description

This Croissant Bread Loaf combines the buttery, flaky layers of a croissant with the convenience of a sliceable loaf. Perfect for toast or sandwiches, it’s a rich and impressive bake that’s surprisingly approachable.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose or bread flour

1 cup unsalted butter (plus extra for lamination)

1 cup warm milk

2 tablespoons sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

1 large egg (for egg wash)

1/4 cup warm water (for activating yeast)

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Instructions

Activate yeast by combining warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit until frothy, about 5–10 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix flour, warm milk, melted butter, salt, and activated yeast to form a shaggy dough. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes.
Cover and let rise until puffed, about 45 minutes.
Roll the dough into a rectangle. Grate frozen butter over one half of the dough. Fold the other half over the butter, roll out again, and fold in thirds. Chill for 30 minutes.
Repeat the lamination process 2–3 more times, chilling between each fold.
Roll out the laminated dough and fold into a loaf shape. Place in a greased loaf pan and let proof until puffy, about 1–1.5 hours.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush loaf with beaten egg.
Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until deeply golden and internal temp reaches 200°F (95°C).
Cool for 20–30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use cold, unsalted butter for best lamination results.
Chill dough between folds to keep butter solid and layers defined.
To avoid butter leakage, ensure proper proofing and maintain cool temps during lamination.
For longer storage, slice and freeze the loaf. Reheat slices in the toaster or oven.
Customize with chocolate chips or herbs for sweet or savory versions.

Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 310
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 190mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 60mg