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Gipfeli Pastry Preparation

The Best Gipfeli Recipe

Need a morning pick-me-up? This gipfeli recipe yields dreamy dough, a flaky bite, and irresistible flavor—your new favorite breakfast awaits!
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Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Course Breakfast, Pastry
Cuisine Swiss
Servings 10 Gipfeli
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls – For dough preparation.
  • Rolling Pin – For rolling out the dough and butter.
  • Baking Sheet – For baking the Gipfeli.
  • Parchment Paper – To prevent sticking.
  • Pastry Brush – For applying the egg wash.
  • Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter – For cutting dough into triangles.
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accurate ingredient portions.

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • ½ cup warm milk 110°F/45°C
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 1 egg yolk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract optional for a sweet version

For the Butter Layers:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter cold
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour for dusting

For the Egg Wash:

  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  • In a small bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  • In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
  • Add yeast mixture, egg yolk, vanilla extract (if using), and softened butter.
  • Knead dough for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  • Cover and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Layer

  • Place cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper. Roll out into a thin rectangle (about 6x6 inches).
  • Chill in the fridge while the dough rises.

Step 3: Laminate the Dough

  • Roll out the dough into a 12x12-inch square on a floured surface.
  • Place butter layer in the center and fold the dough over it like an envelope.
  • Roll out gently into a rectangle, then fold into thirds.
  • Repeat this process two more times, chilling between folds if needed.

Step 4: Shape the Gipfeli

  • Roll the dough into a large circle (~¼ inch thick).
  • Cut into 8-10 triangular pieces.
  • Roll each triangle from the wide end to the tip, forming a crescent shape.
  • Place on a lined baking sheet and let rise for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Bake

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Brush each Gipfeli with egg wash.
  • Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

  • Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Enjoy plain or with jam, honey, or chocolate spread.

Notes

Nutrition Facts (Per Gipfeli, Approximate)
  • Calories: ~280 kcal
  • Protein: ~5g
  • Carbohydrates: ~30g
    • Fiber: ~1g
    • Sugar: ~4g
  • Fat: ~15g
    • Saturated Fat: ~9g
  • Sodium: ~200mg
  • Cholesterol: ~60mg
💡 For a lighter version, use less butter or substitute part of the flour with whole wheat flour.
Keyword Gipfeli recipe, Swiss breakfast pastry,, Swiss croissants