Gipfeli Recipe

There’s something special about starting the day with a warm, flaky Gipfeli. Originating from Switzerland, this delicious pastry resembles a croissant but is slightly less buttery and lighter. With this easy-to-follow Gipfeli recipe, you can recreate the authentic taste of a Swiss breakfast right at home. Whether you enjoy them plain or filled with chocolate or cheese, Gipfeli are perfect for any breakfast or snack.

Recipe by SoukaynaCuisine: SwissDifficulty: Medium

Servings

servings

Prep ad chilling time

hours

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

220

kcal

Indulge in the soft, flaky layers of this traditional Gipfeli recipe, a Swiss breakfast delight that brings a taste of Europe to your morning. Easy to make, with buttery, golden goodness in every bite.

Ingredients

Dough
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
1 cup milk, warm
1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
1 egg yolk (for brushing)
Filling Options (Optional)
Chocolate spread
Apricot jam
Cheese and ham

Directions

Prepare the Dough:
Dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes. Mix flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Add the cold butter cubes and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the yeast-milk mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms. Knead briefly to make a smooth dough.
Chill the Dough:
Cover the dough and refrigerate for 1 hour. Roll out and fold into thirds. Repeat this process three times, chilling for 30 minutes between each fold.
Shape the Gipfeli:
Roll the dough into a large rectangle and cut into triangular shapes. Add a small amount of filling (if using) at the wide end of each triangle, then roll them up towards the tip, bending slightly into a crescent shape.
Bake:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the Gipfeli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with egg yolk and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Notes

Butter Temperature: Make sure the butter is cold; this will help create flaky layers.
Chilling is Key: Don’t skip the chilling process. It’s crucial for achieving the flaky texture.

Tips for the perfect Gipfeli Recipe

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dough the night before and leave it in the fridge to chill overnight.
Vary the Fillings: Sweet or savory, you can customize Gipfeli to your taste. Try using Nutella, jam, or cheese.
Use a Sharp Knife: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter when slicing the triangles.

Recipe Variants

Whole Wheat Gipfeli: Swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
Vegan Gipfeli: Replace butter with vegan margarine, milk with plant-based milk, and skip the egg wash.

FAQ

What is the difference between Gipfeli and croissants?

Gipfeli are less buttery and have a simpler, slightly denser texture compared to croissants. They are also shaped differently, resembling a crescent but with a unique Swiss touch.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before, allowing it to chill overnight for easier handling and better results.

How do I store leftover Gipfeli?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month and reheat them in the oven when needed.

Can I make Gipfeli without a filling?

Yes, Gipfeli are just as delicious plain! However, adding fillings like chocolate, jam, or cheese can make them more exciting.

What can I serve with Gipfeli?

Gipfeli pair perfectly with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or even fresh fruit. They make a delightful addition to any brunch spread.

Making Gipfeli from scratch is a rewarding process that allows you to bring the cozy, comforting flavors of Switzerland to your kitchen. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet yields deliciously professional results. Serve these with your morning coffee, and savor every flaky, buttery bite. Try them out today and discover your new favorite easy breakfast recipe!