Soft Croissants with Apricot Jam for Beginners

Celebrate your baking success with these deliciously soft Apricot Jam Croissants, a perfect example of beginner's luck turning into a delicious masterpiece. Soft, airy, and just sweet enough, these croissants are filled with tangy apricot jam, making each bite a blend of buttery pastry and fruity delight. The process can seem like magic as the dough rises to the occasion, resulting in perfect rolls every time.

Why you'll love this: These croissants are a treat for anyone who loves the combination of soft dough and fruity jam. They are versatile enough for breakfast, a snack, or as a sweet addition to your afternoon tea. Plus, the satisfaction of creating such a perfect soufflé from scratch adds a special touch to the experience, especially if you are new to baking or have had beginner's luck in your past culinary endeavors.

Perfect opportunity: These rolls are perfect for gatherings, brunches, or as a comforting snack on a quiet weekend. They also make a delicious homemade gift or treat to bring to a potluck or holiday event, showcasing your baking skills and the love that goes into each roll.

Decorating tips:

• Sprinkle with sugar: A light dusting of icing sugar not only adds a sweet finish, but also enhances the visual appeal of these fluffy buns.
• Serve hot: There's nothing like tasting these little rolls straight out of the oven, still warm and with a slightly melting jam.
• Presentation of the plate: Serve them on a rustic platter or colorful dish to contrast the golden brown of the buns for a more inviting presentation.

Ingredients:

• 600g flour
• 300 ml of hot milk
• 100 ml of oil
• 10 g yeast
• 4-5 tablespoons of sugar
• 2 eggs (one whole, one yolk for brushing and one white for the dough)
• 2 sachets of vanilla sugar
• A pinch of salt
• 150g apricot jam

Recipe:

1. Prepare the yeast mixture:
   • Dissolve the yeast and a tablespoon of sugar in the warm milk. Add three teaspoons of flour. Let stand for 10 minutes until the mixture is frothy.
2. Make the dough:
   • Mix the yeast with 300 g of flour. Add one whole egg and one egg white, the oil, the rest of the sugar, the vanilla sugar and a pinch of salt.
   • Gradually add the remaining flour and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
   • Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
3. Shaping the rolls:
   • Divide the yeast dough into two parts. Roll out each part and cut it into 16 equal triangles.
   • Place a small spoonful of apricot jam on the wide end of each triangle and roll them into crescents.
   • Arrange the croissants on a baking sheet, leaving enough space for them to rise. Let them rise for another 20 minutes.

4. Cook:
   • Preheat the oven to 200°C.
   • Brush the croissants with a mixture of one egg yolk and two tablespoons of milk.
   • Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve:
   • Allow to cool slightly and dust with icing sugar before serving.

Enjoy your homemade soft apricot jam croissants, a simple yet rewarding pastry that is sure to impress and satisfy with its delicious puffiness and delicious filling!