Golden Croissant with Sourdough Twist

Name: Golden Croissant with Sourdough Twist
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 croissants
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup bread flour; 1/2 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/2 cup milk, warm; 1/4 cup water, warm; 1 egg, for egg wash

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

I absolutely adore baking, and nothing brings me more joy than creating a flaky, buttery croissant with a unique twist. This Golden Croissant with Sourdough Twist combines the classic, delicate layers of a traditional croissant with the tangy depth of sourdough. The rich flavor profile and airy texture come together perfectly, making these pastries an irresistible treat for breakfast or brunch. I love how they elevate any occasion and the delightful aroma that fills the kitchen as they bake is simply unmatched!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-27T14:34:29.314Z

After several attempts at perfecting my coffee shop croissant recipe, I finally decided to incorporate a sourdough starter into the mix. The result was a wonderfully tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery layers. My family couldn't believe how much they enjoyed this twist, and they devoured the batch within hours!

One thing I learned during this baking adventure is that letting the dough rest in the fridge overnight enhances the flavor significantly. It not only makes handling the dough easier but also multiplies those delightful layers as it puffs up beautifully in the oven. These croissants have quickly become a weekend staple in our house!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect combination of tangy sourdough and rich buttery layers.
A delicious twist on a classic French pastry that impresses every time.
Ideal for both breakfast and brunch gatherings with friends and family.

Mastering the Dough

The foundation of these Golden Croissants with Sourdough Twist lies in the dough. Using a combination of all-purpose and bread flour enhances the structure and creates that classic flaky texture. Bread flour has a higher protein content, which contributes to the dough's elasticity, making it easier to roll and fold. Remember to ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly, as this will enhance the fermentation process, bringing out the delightful tang that pairs perfectly with the rich butter layers.

Kneading the dough until it’s smooth is crucial. I recommend about 8-10 minutes of kneading. This develops the gluten structure essential for keeping the layers distinct and airy. After resting for 20 minutes, the dough should feel slightly relaxed, which makes it easier to work with when you incorporate the butter.

Buttering Techniques

When rolling out the cold butter, aim for an even rectangle that is about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures that the butter is pliable enough to fold into the dough without breaking. Using parchment paper is helpful to maintain a clean workspace and prevents the butter from sticking to the rolling pin. If you find the butter becoming too soft, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes before continuing with the folding process.

The traditional folding method creates layers. After encasing the butter in dough, rolling it out gently and folding into thirds should be done with care; applying too much pressure can smash the layers together. A common pitfall is failing to keep it cold—if you notice the butter melting and blending into the dough, simply refrigerate it again for 30 minutes to restore its firmness.

Finishing Touches

When it comes to shaping the croissants, ensuring uniform triangle sizes helps to achieve even baking. This way, the croissants will not only look professional but also bake uniformly, avoiding spots that are over or undercooked. Roll from the base to the tip tightly, which encourages that signature crescent shape. If you’re looking for a variation, try sprinkling chocolate or ham and cheese inside each triangle before rolling for an extra flavor kick.

The egg wash is vital for achieving that golden brown finish. Ensure you brush it gently on the croissants to avoid deflating them after they have risen. Watching for a lovely golden hue during baking is essential; they typically take 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven. If you notice them browning too quickly, you can tent them with aluminum foil for the last few minutes to prevent burning while allowing the insides to bake thoroughly.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to craft your delightful croissants:

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup bread flour
1/2 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup milk, warm
1/4 cup water, warm
1 egg, for egg wash

Ensure all ingredients are at the right temperature for best results!

Instructions

Here's how to make your golden croissant from scratch:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, bread flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and sourdough starter. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let it rest for 20 minutes.

Incorporate the Butter

Roll out the cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper until you have a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Place this butter layer on one-half of the dough, then fold the other half over to encase the butter. Roll out the dough gently, then fold into thirds. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Shaping the Croissants

Roll out the dough into a large rectangle again, ensuring it's about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into triangles and roll each triangle from the base to the tip. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Bake the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the risen croissants with the egg wash. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they reach a lovely golden brown color and feel crispy. Let cool before serving.

Enjoy these delightful croissants fresh from the oven!

Pro Tips

For best results, ensure your dough is well-chilled throughout the process. It helps maintain those flaky layers. Experiment with fillings like chocolate or almond paste for an extra special treat!

Storage and Freezing Tips

These croissants can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, I recommend freezing them. Allow the baked croissants to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their flakiness.

If you want to make the dough ahead of time, you can prepare it up until the last folding step and then freeze the dough for up to a month. Just thaw and complete the final rolls and rise before baking. This makes it a fantastic option for unexpected brunch guests or a busy weekend morning.

Adapting Ingredients

Feel free to experiment with flour substitutes. If you are looking for a gluten-free option, a blend of almond flour and gluten-free all-purpose flour can work, though the texture may differ slightly. Keep an eye on the hydration levels, as gluten-free flours often require additional liquid to maintain the right consistency.

For a dairy-free version, swap the butter with a plant-based alternative. Coconut oil is a popular choice for its similar texture, although it does impart a slightly different flavor. Use unsweetened coconut yogurt in place of milk to maintain moisture without dairy.

Serving Suggestions

These croissants are fabulous on their own, but you can also elevate them by serving with fruit preserves, honey, or even homemade whipped cream. Pairing them with a rich espresso or a refreshing mimosa can make for a delightful brunch experience. I often enjoy serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad, balancing the buttery richness with some bright acidity.

Another tip is to create a decadent croissant sandwich. Slice them open and fill with slices of smoked salmon and cream cheese for a luxurious touch or layer with fresh basil, mozzarella, and tomatoes for a savory delight.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen puff pastry instead?

Yes, if you're short on time, feel free to use store-bought puff pastry instead of making your own dough!

→ How do I store leftover croissants?

Store leftover croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ What can I replace the sourdough starter with?

You can use plain yogurt or buttermilk, but the flavor will be different from traditional sourdough.

→ Can I make these croissants ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape the croissants and freeze them before the final rise. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra few minutes to the cooking time.