Homemade Chocolate Croissants

Preparation Time: 30 minutes Resting Time: 12-14 hours (overnight) Baking Time: 15-20 minutes Yield: 12 croissants

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 1 cup cold milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, thinly sliced

For the Filling:

• 1 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Mix Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture, cold milk, sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Incorporate Butter:
   • Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Place the thinly sliced cold butter evenly over two-thirds of the rectangle. Fold the uncovered third over the butter, then fold the remaining third over the top (similar to a letter).
4. Chill Dough:
   • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Fold and Chill:
   • Roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle, then fold it into thirds. Repeat this process two more times, chilling the dough between each fold.

Assemble and Bake:

6. Roll and Cut:
   • Roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Cut it into smaller rectangles or triangles.
7. Add Chocolate:
   • Sprinkle chocolate chips or place chopped chocolate at the base of each rectangle or triangle. Roll them up, starting from the wider end.
8. Proof:
   • Place the rolled croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let them proof at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or until doubled in size.
9. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. Egg Wash:
    • Beat an egg and brush it over the tops of the croissants for a golden finish.
11. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the croissants are golden brown and puffed up.
12. Cool and Enjoy:
    • Allow the chocolate croissants to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

Note: These chocolate croissants are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Serve with a hot cup of coffee or your favorite beverage for a delightful treat.

Enjoy your homemade chocolate croissants!