Gipfeli Recipe You’ll Love for Breakfast Bliss

There’s something truly special about starting your day with a warm, buttery gipfeli—a Swiss pastry that’s as delightful to the taste buds as it is to the soul. Whether you’re a fan of homemade pastries or simply looking for an easy yet indulgent breakfast recipe, this gipfeli recipe is sure to become a morning favourite. With a golden, flaky texture and a melt-in-your-mouth filling, these pastries offer the perfect balance of light sweetness and comforting flavour. Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with your favourite coffee, fresh fruit, or a light spread. Ready to make your mornings even more blissful? Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe!

Key Benefits of This Gipfeli Recipe

Making gipfeli at home isn’t just about creating a delicious pastry—it’s also about enjoying a variety of benefits that make this recipe a standout choice for your breakfast routine.

Perfect for a Wholesome Breakfast

Start your morning with something that’s not only tasty but also packed with ingredients that can help fuel your day. Gipfeli offers a perfect balance of carbohydrates and fats, thanks to the butter and flour, giving you the energy you need without feeling too heavy. Whether you’re rushing out the door or enjoying a slow morning, these pastries are the ideal start to your day.

Homemade Goodness

There’s something undeniably satisfying about homemade pastries. Not only do you control the quality of the ingredients, but the act of making them from scratch adds a personal touch that can elevate your breakfast experience. Plus, there’s nothing like the scent of freshly baked bread and pastries filling your kitchen!

Versatility in Flavor

One of the best things about gipfeli is its versatility. You can keep things simple with a basic recipe or add your personal twist with fillings like chocolate, almonds, or even fruit preserves. This recipe gives you a great base to experiment and create variations that suit your taste—making it a go-to for every kind of breakfast lover.

Great for Family or Guests

This gipfeli recipe is perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or want to treat your family, these pastries are bound to impress. They’re easy to make in batches, so you can bake enough to feed a crowd, and they’re equally delightful when enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Healthier than Store-Bought Options

When you make gipfeli yourself, you can avoid the preservatives and artificial ingredients often found in store-bought pastries. You have the freedom to choose better quality flour, butter, and other ingredients, ensuring a fresher, more wholesome treat. While it’s still a delicious indulgence, it’s one you can feel good about!

Ingredients for the Perfect Gipfeli Recipe

Before we dive into making these delicious Swiss pastries, let’s gather everything you need. This gipfeli recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Still, each one plays a vital role in giving the pastry its signature texture and flavour. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of any great pastry. Use unbleached flour for a lighter, fluffier texture.
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast – This helps the dough rise beautifully and gives gipfeli that signature soft, airy texture.
• ½ cup warm milk – It activates the yeast and creates a smooth dough. Be sure it’s warm, not too hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
• ¼ cup sugar – Just enough to give a subtle sweetness without overpowering the other flavours.
• 1 tsp salt – A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness and enhances the overall flavour of the dough.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter – The secret to that rich, melt-in-your-mouth quality. It also adds that irresistible golden colour when baked.
• 1 large egg – This is used to bond the dough and give it a shiny, beautiful finish when brushed on top before baking.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional) – Adds a hint of aromatic sweetness to the dough. You can skip it if you prefer a more traditional flavour.

Optional Add-ins for Variations:

• Chocolate chips – Want to make a more decadent version? Add a handful of chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet surprise inside each bite.
• Sliced almonds – For a nutty crunch and a touch of elegance, sprinkle some sliced almonds over the top of your gipfeli before baking.
• Fruit preserves or jam – Add a spoonful of your favourite fruit preserves, like raspberry or apricot, to the center for a fruity twist.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a bowl, mix the warm milk, water, and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
   • Add flour and salt into a large mixing bowl, then pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a dough forms.
   • Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Laminate the Dough:
   • Roll out the dough into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Place the cold butter cubes in the center and fold the dough over the butter.
   • Roll the dough out again into a large rectangle, then fold it in thirds like a letter. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
   • Repeat the rolling and folding process 2-3 times to create layers.
3. Shape and Rise:
   • Roll the dough into a large rectangle, then cut it into triangles. Starting from the wide end, roll each triangle into a crescent shape.
   • Place the shaped gipfeli onto a baking sheet and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
4. Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the risen gipfeli with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
   • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tip:

For extra richness, you can replace some of the butter with heavy cream. This will give the dough an even more luxurious texture and flavour.

Pro Tips and Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the basic gipfeli recipe, let’s take it to the next level! Here are some pro tips and creative variations to help you personalize your gipfeli and make them even more delightful. These little tricks and twists will make your pastries stand out every time.

Pro Tips for Perfect Gipfeli

• Use Fresh Yeast: Try to use fresh yeast for a lighter, fluffier dough. Fresh yeast can give you an even better rise and flavour. However, active dry yeast works just fine—make sure it’s fresh!
• Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, use room temperature butter, milk, and eggs. Cold ingredients can make the dough more difficult to knead and affect its rise.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: When kneading, avoid overworking the dough. Over-kneading can lead to dense gipfeli, so only knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Rest the Dough Properly: Don’t skip the rising times! Giving the dough time to rest and rise allows the yeast to work its magic, creating soft, airy layers.
• Check the Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly before you start baking. You can check the temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure your gipfeli bakes evenly and turns out golden brown.

Creative Variations to Try

1. Cheese Gipfeli: Add a bit of grated cheese like Gruyère or Swiss cheese inside the dough before rolling. You’ll get a savoury twist that pairs perfectly with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
2. Chocolate Gipfeli: If you have a sweet tooth, consider adding chocolate chips or small pieces of dark chocolate to the centre of the dough before rolling them up. A rich chocolate filling will melt beautifully inside your gipfeli.
3. Almond-Crusted Gipfeli: For a nutty, crunchy texture, sprinkle sliced almonds on top of the dough after brushing them with the egg wash. The almonds will roast in the oven, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.
4. Herb-Infused Gipfeli: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme. Chop the fresh herbs finely and mix them into the dough before the final rise. The herbs will infuse the pastries with a fresh, aromatic flavour.
5. Fruit-Filled Gipfeli: Try filling your gipfeli with jam or fresh fruit like berries or apples. A light fruit filling adds sweetness and juiciness that contrasts nicely with the flaky pastry.

Storing and Freezing Your Gipfeli

• Storage: Store your gipfeli in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature. They will remain fresh and soft for a few days.
• Freezing: You can freeze both unbaked and baked gipfeli. To freeze unbaked, arrange the rolled-up pastries on a baking sheet, freeze them until firm, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, pop them in the oven directly from the freezer—no need to thaw.
• For Baked Gipfeli: Once cooled, place them in a freezer bag and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, and they’ll taste as good as fresh.

Make Them Mini

If you prefer bite-sized treats, make mini gipfeli by rolling the dough into smaller triangles. These little pastries are perfect for brunches, parties, or even a sweet snack!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve baked your golden, flaky Gipfeli, let’s talk about how to serve these delicious pastries for the ultimate breakfast experience. Whether you’re enjoying them with family or serving them for a special occasion, these tips will help you elevate your meal.

Pair with Your Favorite Hot Beverage

Nothing completes a fresh batch of Gipfeli like a warm drink to sip alongside. Here are a few pairing suggestions:

• Coffee: A rich, aromatic coffee is a classic choice. Whether it’s an espresso, cappuccino, or a simple drip coffee, the slight bitterness of the coffee perfectly complements the buttery sweetness of the Gipfeli.
• Tea: For a lighter option, try pairing your pastry with a delicate herbal tea or an Earl Grey. The fragrance of the tea balances the richness of the pastry, creating a soothing combination.

Create a Balanced Breakfast Platter

Gipfeli makes a fantastic centrepiece for a breakfast platter. Serve them alongside:

• Fresh fruit: Add some sliced strawberries, berries, or citrus segments for a burst of freshness. The acidity of the fruit complements the buttery pastry and adds a nice contrast.
• Cheese and cold cuts: For a savoury twist, serve Gipfeli with a selection of cheeses, such as Swiss Gruyère or a mild brie. You can also add some thinly sliced ham or turkey to make your breakfast more substantial.

Spread the Love with Toppings

Gipfeli is delicious on its own, but adding a topping or spread can take it to the next level. Try:

• Butter: Spread a bit of soft, room-temperature butter on a warm Gipfeli for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Jam or preserves: A dollop of your favourite jam, such as strawberry or apricot, can add a sweet, fruity note.
• Nut butter: For a rich and slightly nutty twist, spread some almond or peanut butter. The combination of the pastry’s flakiness with the creamy spread is pure bliss.

Serve at Different Times of Day

While Gipfeli shines in the morning, you don’t have to limit them to breakfast! These pastries are just as excellent as:

• A tea-time treat: Serve Gipfeli in the afternoon with your favourite tea for a sweet snack.
• Brunch: If you’re hosting a brunch, arrange a few Gipfeli on a tray for a delicious and easy-to-eat addition to your spread.

Make It a Crowd-Pleaser

If you’re serving a group, consider making a variety of fillings or toppings. You can make a mix of sweet and savoury Gipfeli to cater to all tastes. Think along the lines of:

• Sweet options: Chocolate chips, cinnamon sugar, or even a lemon glaze.
• Savoury options: Cheese, spinach, or a touch of ham.

These variations allow everyone to find their favourite flavour combination while still enjoying the buttery, flaky goodness of the pastry.

Enjoy and Savor!

Remember, the beauty of Gipfeli is its versatility. Whether you keep it simple with just butter or go all out with creative fillings and toppings, your Gipfeli is sure to be a hit. Serve them fresh and hot from the oven, and enjoy every bite with your loved ones.

gipfeli recipe

Christina

Try this easy and delicious gipfeli recipe​ for a perfect, flaky breakfast treat. Fresh, buttery, and customizable—perfect for any occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine Swiss

Servings 10

Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients

  

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 packet active dry yeast about 2 1/4 tsp
• 1 cup milk warm, about 110°F / 45°C
• 1/4 cup water warm
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
• 1 egg for egg wash

For the Butter Layer:

• 1 cup unsalted butter cold, cut into small cubes

Instructions

 

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

• In a bowl, mix the warm milk, water, and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
• Add flour and salt into a large mixing bowl, then pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a dough forms.
• Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Laminate the Dough:

• Roll out the dough into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Place the cold butter cubes in the center and fold the dough over the butter.
• Roll the dough out again into a large rectangle, then fold it in thirds like a letter. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
• Repeat the rolling and folding process 2-3 times to create layers.

Shape and Rise:

• Roll the dough into a large rectangle, then cut it into triangles. Starting from the wide end, roll each triangle into a crescent shape.
• Place the shaped gipfeli onto a baking sheet and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Bake:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the risen gipfeli with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbs: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 220mg

Cholesterol: 40mg

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve just created a batch of delicious, flaky Gipfeli that are sure to bring joy to your breakfast table. Whether you’re enjoying them solo with a cup of coffee or turning them into the star of a brunch spread, these homemade pastries offer a warm and inviting start to your day. Here’s a quick recap and a few final thoughts to keep in mind:

Why You’ll Love Gipfeli

• Fresh and Homemade: There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh-baked pastries filling your home. Gipfeli is easy to make from scratch, and the results are beyond worth it.
• Versatile: You can customize your Gipfeli with sweet or savoury fillings, making it suitable for all tastes and occasions.
• Comforting: The buttery, soft texture of Gipfeli is comforting and satisfying, making it the perfect treat to start your morning or enjoy as a midday snack.

A Simple Pleasure

Making your own Gipfeli is more than just baking—it’s a small act of self-care that fills your home with warmth and deliciousness. It’s a chance to enjoy something homemade, share it with friends or family, and savour the simple joy of a well-made pastry.

Pro Tip for the Road

Gipfeli is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. You can also freeze the dough before baking and pop it in the oven for an effortless treat whenever you crave it.

So, what are you waiting for? Get baking and indulge in the buttery, golden goodness of your very own Gipfeli! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones—they’re sure to thank you for it.

FAQs

Source Links

1. The Spruce Eats – How to Make Swiss Croissants (Gipfeli)
   https://www.thespruceeats.com/swiss-croissants-gipfeli-recipe-1446589
2. Helvetic Kitchen – Swiss Gipfeli
   https://www.helvetickitchen.com/recipes/swiss-gipfeli
3. Switzerland Tourism – Gipfeli Recipe
   https://www.myswitzerland.com/en/experiences/food-wine/gipfeli-recipe/