Homemade Crescent Rolls

Homemade Crescent Rolls

---

Nothing beats the warm, buttery aroma of freshly baked homemade crescent rolls. These delightful rolls are not only soft and flaky, but they also add a touch of homemade goodness to any meal. Whether enjoyed at breakfast, dinner, or as a tasty snack, they are sure to impress family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

You might wonder why you should try making homemade crescent rolls instead of buying them from the store. The answer is simple: homemade rolls are fresher, tastier, and you can customize them to your liking. Making crescent rolls from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that you know exactly what goes into your food. Plus, baking is a rewarding experience! The joy of pulling warm rolls out of the oven is truly special.

How to Make Homemade Crescent Rolls

Making homemade crescent rolls is a fun and satisfying process. Here’s how you can create these delicious treats step-by-step.

Ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ cup whole milk, warmed
• ½ cup water, warmed
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, cold, cut into small cubes
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let this mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Mix in the cold cubed butter until it resembles small peas.
4. Stir in the yeast mixture, egg, and vanilla until a shaggy dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 3-4 minutes until it forms a ball.
6. Shape the kneaded dough into a rectangle, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
7. Roll out the chilled dough into a large rectangle, trim the edges, and cut it into triangles.
8. Roll each triangle from the wide end to the point, tucking the ends under to form crescents.
9. Place the rolled crescents on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them rise for 45-60 minutes.
10. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), brush the rolls with melted butter, and bake for 15-20 minutes until they are golden.
11. After baking, brush with more melted butter and serve fresh.

How to Serve Homemade Crescent Rolls

Homemade crescent rolls are perfect for any meal. Serve them warm with butter for breakfast, alongside a hearty soup or salad for lunch, or as a delightful side with dinner. You can even fill them with your favorite jams or honey for a sweet treat.

How to Store Homemade Crescent Rolls

To store your homemade crescent rolls, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cooled rolls in a freezer bag and they can last for up to 3 months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw and reheat in the oven.

Tips to Make Homemade Crescent Rolls

• Make sure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
• Don’t skip chilling the dough; it makes rolling easier.
• For extra flavor, try adding herbs or cheese to the rolls.

Variation

Feel free to experiment with different flavors! You can add Parmesan cheese for a savory twist, or cinnamon and sugar for a sweet version. You can also try making filled crescent rolls by adding chocolate, cooked meats, or vegetables before rolling.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. You might want to mix it with some all-purpose flour for a lighter roll.

2. How can I tell if my yeast is active?
When you mix your yeast with warm liquid and sugar, it should become foamy within 10 minutes. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast is likely inactive.

3. What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
No worries! You can mix and knead the dough by hand. Just be patient, as it might take a little longer.

Enjoy baking your homemade crescent rolls and delight in sharing them with loved ones!