How to Make Classic Breton Kouign-Amann

Simple Summary

Kouign-Amann is a decadent French pastry that combines layers of buttery, flaky dough with a caramelized sugar exterior, creating a uniquely indulgent treat that's both crispy and tender.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 3 hours (including resting time)
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Servings: 12 pastries
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon (12g) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• 1 1/2 cups (340g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar, divided

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle.
6. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of sugar over the dough, then evenly distribute the cold butter cubes over 2/3 of the rectangle.
7. Fold the unbuttered third over the center, then fold the opposite end over (like a letter).
8. Roll the dough out again into a 12x18-inch rectangle, then fold into thirds again. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
9. Repeat the rolling and folding process two more times, chilling for 30 minutes between each turn.
10. After the final turn, roll the dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle and sprinkle with 1/2 cup sugar.
11. Cut the dough into 12 squares.
12. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin and sprinkle the remaining sugar into each cup.
13. Gather the corners of each dough square and place into the muffin cups, pinching to seal.
14. Let the pastries rise for 30 minutes while preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).
15. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until deeply golden brown.
16. Let cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then carefully remove and cool on a wire rack.

Chef's Notes

• For best results, use European-style butter with a high fat content.
• Keep ingredients and dough as cold as possible during the folding process to achieve flaky layers.
• If the dough becomes too soft at any point, return it to the refrigerator for 15 minutes before continuing.
• Kouign-Amann is best enjoyed the day it's baked, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• For a flavor variation, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough or sprinkling cinnamon with the sugar.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (1 pastry): Approximately 380 calories, 22g fat, 42g carbohydrates, 4g protein. While indulgent, Kouign-Amann provides quick energy and small amounts of essential nutrients from butter and flour.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve Kouign-Amann warm for breakfast alongside a strong cup of coffee or tea.
• For a dessert presentation, dust with powdered sugar and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries.
• These pastries make an excellent addition to a brunch buffet or as a special treat for afternoon tea.
• Pair with a glass of sparkling wine for a luxurious dessert experience.