Go Back
Freshly baked Swiss Gipfeli pastries with jam and butter.

Traditional Swiss Gipfeli

Meriam
Swiss Gipfeli are delicate, buttery crescent rolls that are similar to croissants but less flaky. They are a staple in Swiss bakeries and perfect for breakfast or a light snack. This recipe will guide you through making authentic homemade Gipfeli with a golden, crispy crust and soft interior.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Breakfast, Baked Goods, Swiss Cuisine
Cuisine Swiss
Servings 12 Gipfeli
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 500 g 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 10 g 2 tsp salt
  • 60 g ¼ cup sugar
  • 10 g 1 packet instant yeast
  • 250 ml 1 cup warm milk
  • 100 g 7 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 egg

For the Butter Layer:

  • 150 g 10 tbsp unsalted butter, cold

For the Egg Wash:

  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tbsp milk

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
  • Gradually add warm milk and mix until a dough starts to form.
  • Add softened butter and the egg, then knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  • Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Layer

  • Place the cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it into a rectangle (about 15x20 cm / 6x8 inches).
  • Refrigerate the butter until firm.

Step 3: Laminate the Dough

  • Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 30x40 cm (12x16 inches).
  • Place the butter layer in the center and fold the dough over it, sealing the edges.
  • Roll out the dough again and fold it into thirds (like folding a letter).
  • Chill for 30 minutes, then repeat the rolling and folding process two more times.

Step 4: Shape the Gipfeli

  • Roll out the dough into a large sheet, about 5mm (¼ inch) thick.
  • Cut into long triangles and roll each triangle from the base to the tip to form a crescent shape.
  • Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise for 30-45 minutes.

Step 5: Bake the Gipfeli

  • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  • Mix egg yolk and milk, then brush the Gipfeli with the egg wash.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • For extra flakiness, use strong bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
  • If you prefer a sweeter version, add a bit more sugar to the dough.
  • You can refrigerate the dough overnight for a deeper flavor.
Keyword Swiss Gipfeli, croissant alternative, Swiss breakfast, homemade pastry