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Flaky Homemade Cheese Croissants – Buttery Layers with a Savory Twist
There’s something irresistible about the golden crisp of a freshly baked croissant — and when you add melted cheese into the mix, it becomes truly divine. These Homemade Cheese Croissants combine the rich, buttery texture of traditional French pastry with the savory comfort of melted cheese, creating a bakery-quality treat right from your kitchen.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack, these croissants deliver everything you love about flaky pastry with a delicious cheesy surprise in every bite.
Ingredients
Makes 8 croissants
- 2 ¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) instant yeast
- 3 tablespoons (40g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (180ml) warm milk
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, cold
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 ½ cups (150g) shredded cheese (Gruyère, cheddar, or mozzarella)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 40 minutes (plus chilling)
- Resting time: 3 hours
- Baking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 4 hours
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Add warm milk and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead gently for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Cover and chill for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Butter Layer
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle.
- Flatten cold butter between parchment paper and place it in the center of the dough.
- Fold the dough over the butter like an envelope and roll gently.
- Fold into thirds, then chill for 30 minutes. Repeat rolling and folding two more times for flaky layers.
Step 3: Shape the Croissants
- Roll the dough into a large rectangle (about ¼ inch thick).
- Cut into long triangles and sprinkle cheese over each.
- Roll tightly from the base to the tip to form crescent shapes.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking tray, cover lightly, and let rise for 1 to 1.5 hours.
Step 4: Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush croissants with beaten egg for shine.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes or until golden and crisp.
- Cool slightly before serving warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a side of tomato soup or creamy scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
- Slice open and stuff with ham or turkey for a quick lunch sandwich.
- Pair with honey or fig jam for a sweet-and-savory afternoon treat.
- Serve mini versions at brunch or tea parties for an elegant touch.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 croissant) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Total Fat | 19 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 12 grams |
| Cholesterol | 60 milligrams |
| Sodium | 270 milligrams |
| Total Carbohydrates | 27 grams |
| Sugars | 3 grams |
| Protein | 8 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
Nutritional Notes:
- Butter provides richness and flaky texture — can be replaced with plant-based butter for a lighter option.
- Cheese adds protein, calcium, and savory flavor depth.
- Whole milk or non-dairy milk alternatives both work for the dough.
Tips for Perfect Cheese Croissants
- Always use cold butter to achieve flaky, layered pastry.
- Don’t skip chilling between folds — this prevents butter from melting into the dough.
- Use Gruyère or aged cheddar for strong flavor, or mozzarella for a mild, stretchy texture.
- Freeze unbaked croissants for up to 2 months and bake fresh as needed.
Variations
- Herb Cheese Croissants: Add fresh herbs like chives or thyme to the filling.
- Spicy Version: Sprinkle chili flakes or pepper jack cheese before rolling.
- Sweet & Savory Twist: Add a drizzle of honey before serving for contrast.
- Mini Croissants: Cut smaller triangles for bite-sized party snacks.
These Homemade Cheese Croissants bring together the delicate artistry of French baking and the comforting flavor of melted cheese. Perfectly crisp on the outside and irresistibly soft inside, they’re a delightful addition to any meal — from breakfast to midnight snack.
Make a batch today, and your kitchen will smell like your favorite bakery in no time.