How to Make Buttery and Delicious Crescent Rolls

Crescent rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, whether served at breakfast, dinner, or as a standalone snack. Their flaky, buttery layers and soft, pillowy texture make them irresistible. In this guide, you'll learn how to make buttery and delicious crescent rolls right in your kitchen.

Ingredients

To make crescent rolls, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
½ cup warm milk (110°F or 43°C)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
Additional melted butter for brushing

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix them well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk these together until fully integrated.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring with a spoon until a dough forms. You may need to use your hands to knead the dough briefly until it becomes smooth and elastic, typically about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm environment for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.

Step 7: Cut into Triangles

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into triangles. The base of each triangle should be about 4 inches wide. This size helps create well-sized rolls.

Step 8: Shape the Crescent Rolls

Starting from the base of each triangle, roll the dough tightly towards the tip to form a crescent shape. Ensure that the tip is tucked underneath the roll to prevent it from unrolling during baking.

Step 9: Second Rise

Place the rolls on a greased baking sheet, making sure they have space to rise. Cover them with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 10: Preheat the Oven

While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready to bake when the crescent rolls have finished their second rise.

Step 11: Bake the Rolls

Once the rolls have risen, brush them lightly with melted butter for that extra buttery flavor. Bake them in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 12: Cool and Serve

Remove the crescent rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve them warm, brushed with additional melted butter if desired.

Tips for Perfect Crescent Rolls

For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder, herbs, or cheese to the dough.
If you want a sweeter roll, add a couple of tablespoons of honey or maple syrup to the wet ingredients.
Experiment with fillings, such as chocolate, ham and cheese, or fruit preserves, by adding them before rolling the dough.

Enjoy your homemade buttery and delicious crescent rolls as a perfect complement to any meal or as a tasty snack on their own!