Cruffins are a delightful hybrid of a croissant and a muffin, combining the flaky, buttery goodness of a croissant with the convenient, cup-shaped form of a muffin. This recipe provides a guide to making these delectable treats at home.
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 2 packets (0.25 ounces each) active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (100°-110°F)
- 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened and cut into small pieces
- For the Filling (optional):
- Your favorite jam or preserves
- Chopped nuts
- Fresh or dried fruit
- Cream cheese
- Chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Add Yeast Mixture: Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture.
- Combine and Knead: Gradually stir in the softened butter pieces until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Cruffins:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a long, thin rope (about 12 inches).
- Wrap each rope around the base of a well-greased muffin tin, overlapping the ends slightly.
- Tuck the end of the dough under the bottom of the muffin tin.
- Second Rise: Cover the muffin tin with plastic wrap and let rise again in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and Fill (Optional): Let the cruffins cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before carefully removing them. Fill with your desired toppings while still warm.
Tips & Variations:
- For extra flaky cruffins, use cold butter and work quickly when incorporating it into the dough.
- If you don’t have muffin tins, you can shape the dough into free-form cruffins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Experiment with different fillings! Try savory options like cheese and herbs, or sweet options like fruit preserves and chocolate chips.
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of bread flour and all-purpose flour.
Enjoy your delicious homemade cruffins!