Bake Swiss Gipfeli Recipe
Swiss Gipfeli are buttery, flaky crescent rolls that bring a taste of Switzerland straight to your kitchen. These delicate pastries are soft on the inside with a golden, crispy exterior, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an elegant snack alongside coffee or tea.
Making Gipfeli at home might seem intimidating, but this recipe breaks it down into simple steps, guiding you to create authentic Swiss pastries with rich flavor and irresistible texture. Whether you enjoy them plain or filled with jam or chocolate, Swiss Gipfeli are sure to become a cherished favorite.
Why You Need This Recipe
Swiss Gipfeli are a delightful treat that offers a perfect balance of flaky layers and buttery richness, making them an irresistible addition to any breakfast or snack table. This recipe allows you to enjoy authentic Swiss pastries without needing specialized equipment or ingredients, making it accessible for home bakers of all levels.
Beyond their delicious taste, Gipfeli are wonderfully versatile you can enjoy them plain, stuffed with your favorite fillings like chocolate or jam, or even topped with seeds for extra texture. Mastering this recipe means you’ll always have a fresh, homemade pastry on hand to impress guests or indulge yourself.
Ingredients
Here’s a detailed ingredients table with approximate calorie counts to help you prepare these flaky, buttery Swiss pastries with ease and keep track of nutrition.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 ½ cups (440 g) | 1,600 |
| Unsalted butter (cold) | 1 cup (227 g) | 1,620 |
| Milk (warm) | ¾ cup (180 ml) | 90 |
| Sugar | 3 tablespoons | 120 |
| Active dry yeast | 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) | 7 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 |
| Egg (for egg wash) | 1 large | 70 |
Estimated Calories Per Gipfeli: ~250 kcal (based on 12 pieces)
How to Prepare
Begin by dissolving the yeast and a teaspoon of sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active. In a large bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 8 to 10 minutes. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
While the dough is rising, prepare the butter block by placing the cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper and pounding it into a flat, square layer about ½ inch thick. Chill the butter block until firm but pliable. Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle, place the butter block in the center, and fold the dough over it, sealing the edges. Perform a series of folds and rolls similar to making croissants to create flaky layers, chilling the dough between folds to keep the butter firm.
After the final fold, roll the dough out into a large rectangle and cut it into triangles. Roll each triangle from the wide end toward the point to form the classic crescent shape. Place the shaped Gipfeli on a baking sheet, cover, and let them proof for another 30 to 45 minutes. Brush with beaten egg for a glossy finish and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving your delicious Swiss Gipfeli.
Pro Tips
For the flakiest Gipfeli, keep your butter and dough cold throughout the folding process this helps create distinct layers. Use cold butter straight from the fridge and chill the dough between folds to prevent the butter from melting.
When rolling the dough, try to maintain an even thickness to ensure consistent baking. If the dough becomes too soft or sticky, pop it back in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes to firm up. Also, don’t skip the egg wash it gives the Gipfeli their beautiful golden color and shiny finish. For added flavor, consider brushing with melted butter immediately after baking. These small details make a big difference in achieving authentic, bakery quality Swiss Gipfeli.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Swiss Gipfeli are delicious on their own but become even better when paired with your favorite spreads. Classic accompaniments like butter, honey, or fruit preserves complement their buttery, flaky texture perfectly. For a more indulgent treat, try them with Nutella or almond butter.
They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them ideal for breakfast or afternoon snacks. If you want to add a savory twist, serve them alongside cheese and cold cuts, or stuff them with ham and cheese before baking for a delightful variation. Whether sweet or savory, these pairings enhance the Gipfeli experience and satisfy every craving.
Conclusion
Swiss Gipfeli are a timeless pastry that brings the warmth and charm of Swiss baking into your home. With their flaky layers and buttery richness, these crescent rolls are perfect for any occasion whether a cozy breakfast, an elegant brunch, or a delightful snack with your favorite beverage.
This recipe makes creating authentic Gipfeli approachable for home bakers, turning simple ingredients into a delicious, impressive treat. Once you master these buttery crescents, you’ll have a versatile pastry that can be enjoyed plain, filled, or paired with sweet or savory accompaniments making every bite a little moment of joy.
