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Golden-brown Gipfeli on a wooden board with powdered sugar.

Gipfeli

Gipfeli, the Swiss cousin of the croissant, offers a denser texture and subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or jam. Perfect for breakfast or a light snack, these crescent-shaped pastries are easy to make and endlessly versatile. Try classic butter Gipfeli or variations like nut-filled Nussgipfel or almond-flavored Mandelgipfel!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine Swiss

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Pastry cutter or fork
  • Rolling pin
  • Knife or pizza cutter
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Pastry brush

Ingredients
  

  • 3 1/2 cups 440 g all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup 115 g cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 cup 240 ml warm milk
  • 1 egg beaten (for brushing)

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Rub in cold butter until crumbly. Dissolve yeast in warm milk; let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Combine with dry ingredients to form dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
  • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
  • Divide dough into 2 portions. Roll each into a circle (~1/4 inch thick). Cut into 8 triangles.
  • Place desired filling at the base of each triangle. Roll tightly into crescent shapes.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place crescents on a baking sheet, brush with egg, and bake for 15-18 minutes or until

Notes

Variations: Try savory fillings like ham and cheese or spinach and feta.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for 1-2 days at room temperature or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for best texture.