Kouign Amann Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 1/2 cups cold water
• 2 1/4 cups unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar, plus more for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and salt. Add the cold water, and using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a shaggy dough forms. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the butter. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the butter into a large rectangle about 1/2 inch thick; you can use a rolling pin or your hands. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until needed.
3. Roll the rested dough out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle or oval that’s about twice the size of the butter rectangle. Center the butter on top of the dough, leaving a border of about 1 inch all around. Fold the dough over the butter, tucking in the edges and pinching to seal as needed. Its shape is up to you — square or round is typical.
4. Roll the dough out into another large rectangle again, being careful not to stretch it too much and break the butter layer inside. Fold the dough in thirds like you were folding a letter — if you end up with butter peeking out, it might melt and escape during baking. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. After 30 minutes, remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out once again. Sprinkle the 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar evenly over the sheet of dough. Fold the sheet into thirds like you did previously, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for another 30 minutes.
6. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out once again, being careful not to stretch it too much. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into squares or triangles. Dust each piece heavily with granulated sugar and place onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the Kouign Amann is golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.

Verdict:

Kouign Amann is a decadent and buttery French pastry. The layers of butter and sugar create a flaky and crispy texture that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. This recipe may take some time and effort, but the end result is definitely worth it.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve Kouign Amann warm or at room temperature as a delicious breakfast pastry or dessert. You can even enjoy them on their own or with a side of fresh fruit. Bon appétit!