Gipfeli recipe, the Swiss cousin to the French croissant, is a deliciously flaky, crescent-shaped pastry that graces breakfast tables throughout Switzerland. Slightly less buttery than its French counterpart and less sweet than Italian cornetti, Gipfeli offers a crisp exterior and a soft, layered interior, perfect for pairing with butter and jam.
In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare the perfect Gipfeli with step-by-step instructions, tips for success, and answers to common questions. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this guide will help you create authentic Swiss Gipfeli in your own kitchen.
What is a Gipfeli?
A Gipfeli is a Swiss crescent-shaped pastry made with a laminated, yeast-based dough. These pastries are a staple in Swiss breakfasts, often served with butter and jam. The dough contains fewer layers of butter than a French croissant, giving it a slightly firmer texture while maintaining its signature flakiness.
Unlike French croissants, Gipfeli focuses on a crispy exterior without excessive butteriness. They’re beloved throughout Switzerland and can be found in various forms, including savory and sweet versions.
For more on versatile baked goods, check out the Peach Cobbler Recipe with Cake Mix for an easy and delicious dessert option.
Ingredients for the Perfect Gipfeli Recipe
To make authentic Swiss Gipfeli, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Active Dry Yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons (7 grams)
- Lukewarm Milk: 1 1/3 cups (315 ml) at 105°F–115°F (40°C–46°C)
- All-Purpose Flour: 4 cups (500 grams)
- Granulated Sugar: 3 tablespoons (38 grams)
- Salt: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Egg: 1 large
- Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (226 grams), chilled
- Egg Wash: 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon milk
Optional Fillings:
- Nussgipfel: Hazelnut or almond paste
- Schoggi-Gipfeli: Chocolate filling
- Laugengipfeli: Pretzel-style with coarse salt
If you enjoy making recipes with a unique twist, you might also love this creative Burger Bowl Recipe for a fun, deconstructed take on a classic dish.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Gipfeli recipe
1. Preparing the Dough
- Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, sprinkle active dry yeast over lukewarm milk. Stir briefly and let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy. - Mix the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Slowly add the yeast mixture and the egg. Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s crumbly, add more milk. - Knead and Proof:
On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and let it rise at room temperature until doubled in size (about 1.5 hours).
2. Laminating the Dough
- Prepare the Butter Block:
Place the chilled butter between two pieces of parchment paper. Flatten it into an 8×8 inch square using a rolling pin. Chill briefly if necessary. - Incorporate Butter into Dough:
Roll the dough into a rectangle (18×10 inches). Place the butter block over half of the dough, then fold the dough over the butter to encase it. Seal the edges. - Folding and Chilling:
- Roll the dough out into a long rectangle.
- Fold one-third of the dough towards the center, then fold the opposite third over it (like a letter).
- Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
- Repeat this folding process two more times, chilling between each fold.
3. Shaping the Gipfeli
- Roll and Cut:
Divide the dough in half. Roll one half into an 18×6 inch rectangle. Cut into triangles with 5-inch bases. - Shape the Crescents:
Make a small 1-inch cut at the base of each triangle. Roll the triangles from base to tip, gently stretching the dough, and curve the ends to form a crescent shape.
4. Proofing and Baking
- Final Proof:
Place the shaped Gipfeli on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Cover lightly and let them rise for 1 hour. - Egg Wash and Bake:
Brush the tops with egg wash. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 10-12 minutes until golden and puffed.
If you enjoy experimenting with different cooking techniques, you might be interested in learning about How Long to Cook Chicken Breast in an Air Fryer for a quick and healthy meal.
Tips for Perfect Gipfeli Recipe
- Use European-Style Butter: Higher butterfat content (82% or more) ensures a richer flavor and better layers.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off without packing it.
- Chill Between Folds: Keep the butter cold to maintain distinct layers and avoid melting.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Over-kneading can lead to dense pastries.
Conclusion
Making Gipfeli at home is a rewarding experience that brings a taste of Switzerland to your breakfast table. With these detailed steps and expert tips, you’ll achieve flaky, golden pastries every time. Pair your freshly baked Gipfeli with butter and jam, and enjoy a delicious start to your day!
For more creative and easy recipes, visit Make Our Recipes and discover a variety of dishes to try in your kitchen.