Buttery Crescent Rolls From Scratch

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Hi Bold Bakers!

Crescent rolls are a must on a lot of tables over the holidays, but did you know homemade crescent rolls are super easy to make? Of course, it is convenient to pop open a tube of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls, but you’d be shocked at how much of a difference homemade makes. 

My Buttery Crescent Rolls From Scratch are so fresh and buttery, flakey, and chewy. I also bet that you already have all of the (just 6) ingredients you need to make them in your kitchen!

For some reason, having a homemade roll to share with family and friends over dinner just means more. Also, am I the only one who jumps every time someone POPS open those prepackaged baked goods?! This honestly takes the stress out of the holidays for me! 

What Are Crescent Rolls? Crescent Rolls VS Croissants

In French, Croissant actually translates to crescent — and both of these baked goods are in the shape of the crescent moon! So what’s the difference? 

Unlike my croissant recipe, I don’t use yeast in my crescent rolls. There’s still a flaky, buttery texture, but it isn’t quite the same fluffiness as a croissant. Personally, I think a crescent roll is more of a bread, and a croissant is a pastry. I wouldn’t bat an eye at using a crescent roll to sop up some gravy. I’m not sure if I feel the same way about a croissant! 

What You Need To Make Homemade Crescent Rolls

• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Plastic wrap

How To Make Homemade Crescent Rolls

Nothing against the Pillsbury Doughboy, but… here is how you make the perfect crescent rolls at home (and don’t forget to get the full recipe with measurements, on the page down below):

1. Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a large bowl.
2. Stir in the yogurt and then knead for about a minute until a smooth dough forms. 
3. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into an 8×12-inch (20×30 cm) rectangle.
4. Spread 1/3 of the butter over the dough, then fold it into thirds, like a letter, so the dough is in three layers. (See video for the technique!) Cover the dough and place it in the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. Repeat the rolling, buttering, and folding 2 more times, chilling for 30 minutes in between. After, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for an hour. 
6. As the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Once the dough is thoroughly chilled, roll it on a floured surface into a large, thin rectangle. You want it to be about 10×18 inches (25x45cm). Cut it in half, lengthwise, and then cut each half into 4 squares.
8. Cut the squares of dough in half diagonally. 
9. To make the crescent rolls, gently stretch and roll a triangle of dough from the wide end to the tip. Place it on the prepared baking sheet with the tip facing down.
10. Once they are all rolled, brush the crescent rolls with egg wash and bake on the oven’s middle racks for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown.

Gemma’s Pro Chef Tips For Making Homemade Crescent Rolls

• This dough can seem difficult to roll out. If it springs back a bit as you roll it, just let it rest for a few minutes to let the gluten relax, and then try to roll again.
• You can make and shape the dough ahead of time. Store the unbaked rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Add some flavor! Before you roll the dough into the crescent shape, add some grated parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, crushed garlic and olive oil, pizza sauce, and shredded mozzarella. If you want a sweet treat, try some cinnamon sugar! 

How Do I Store Homemade Crescent Rolls?

These rolls are best the day you make them, but you can store any leftover crescent rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days! 

Make Bread and Dough!

• Crazy Dough: One Bread Recipe with Endless Variations
• 1-Hour Dinner Rolls
• Artisanal Whole Wheat Bread

And don’t forget to buy my Bigger Bolder Baking Cookbook!

Full (and printable) recipe below!

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Homemade Boston Cream Donuts Recipe