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Golden-Brown Kouign Amann Pastries: A Flaky Delight

Golden-brown kouign amann pastries with flaky layers, crispy exterior, and powdered sugar on rustic wooden surface.

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Golden-brown kouign amann pastries with flaky layers, crispy exterior, and powdered sugar on rustic wooden surface.

Golden-brown kouign amann pastries are a French treat that combines buttery layers with a deliciously crispy exterior. These pastries are made using a laminated dough enriched with butter and sugar, resulting in a sweet and flaky texture that melts in your mouth. Perfect for breakfast or as a dessert, kouign amann offers a sophisticated twist on traditional pastries, making them a favorite in bakeries and homes alike. Their unique layering technique and caramelization in the baking process allow these pastries to stand out both in taste and presentation, turning simple ingredients into a mesmerizing treat that everyone loves.

Originating from Brittany, France, kouign amann is a relatively recent addition to the world of pastries, dating back to the 1860s. Its name translates to ‘cake’ (kouign) and ‘butter’ (amann). Traditionally, it’s made using wheat flour, yeast, butter, and sugar, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region. The dessert’s characteristic caramelized crust results from a generous layering of sugar, which creates a delightful contrast between the soft, flaky interior and the crunchy outside. Through time, kouign amann has gained worldwide acclaim, with many variations and adaptations enriching its legacy.

These delectable pastries are perfect for a variety of occasions! Whether it’s a weekend brunch with friends, a cozy family gathering, or a special celebration, kouign amann brings a touch of elegance to the table. They also serve as a wonderful accompaniment to coffee or tea during afternoon breaks, making them a favorite for snacking. Moreover, they can be a great treat for holiday gatherings, or simply a delightful way to treat yourself after a long day. Their impressive appearance and delightful flavors ensure they will be a hit at any event!

Golden-brown kouign amann pastries with flaky layers, crispy exterior, and powdered sugar on rustic wooden surface.

Golden-Brown Kouign Amann Pastries: A Flaky Delight

Recipe by Mary Clarkson

Difficulty

Intermediate

Servings

8 servings

Prep time

60 Mins

Cooking time

30 Mins

Ingredients

  • 500 grams all-purpose flour
  • 250 grams unsalted butter, softened
  • 150 grams sugar
  • 10 grams salt
  • 10 grams active dry yeast
  • 250 milliliters warm water
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

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Instructions

  1. Start by preparing the dough. In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Gradually add warm water and mix until a rough dough forms.
  2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
  3. Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread a generous amount of softened butter over two-thirds of the dough.
  4. Fold the unbuttered third over the middle third, then fold the last third over the top, creating a layered dough.
  5. Roll out the dough again into a rectangle and repeat the butter and folding process two more times.
  6. After the final fold, roll the dough out to a thickness of about 1 cm and sprinkle sugar evenly over the surface.
  7. Cut the dough into squares and shape them into rounds in a muffin or cupcake pan.
  8. Cover the pastries and let them rise for about 30 minutes until doubled in size.
  9. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake the pastries for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  10. Once baked, let them cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

350

Carbs

40

Protein

5

Fats

20