1. Make the Dough

• Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together flour, yeast, and a pinch of salt.
• Make a well in the center and pour in warm milk and sugar. Stir gently to start activating the yeast.
• Using your hands or a mixer with a dough hook, mix until a rough dough forms.

2. Work in the Butter

• Add in your cold butter cubes and start kneading. You’ll notice chunks of butter throughout the dough—this is what makes the layers SO GOOD!
• Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

3. Let the Dough Rest

• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1-2 hours (or until doubled in size).
• This step is crucial—it’s where all the magic of fluffiness happens!

4. Time to Laminate! (Layer the Butter)

• Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about three times as long as it is wide.
• Spread softened butter over two-thirds of the rectangle (yes, more butter = more delicious layers!).
• Fold the dough like a letter:
  1. Bring the bottom non-buttered third up over the middle.
  2. Fold the top third down over that.
• Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes (this keeps the butter from melting too soon!).

5. Roll, Fold, Repeat

• Take the chilled dough and roll it into another rectangle.
• Repeat the letter fold, wrap, and chill again for another 30 minutes.
• Do this three times to build up those dreamy layers!

6. Shape the Gipfeli

• Roll the dough out to 5mm thickness.
• Cut into long, narrow triangles using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
• If adding a filling, spread a little almond paste or Nutella near the wide end.
• Roll each triangle from the wide base to the tip, forming a crescent shape.
• Place on a lined baking sheet, tip side down (so they don’t unroll while baking).

7. Egg Wash & Bake

• Brush each Gipfeli with egg wash—this is the secret to that beautiful golden-brown shine!
• Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 15-20 minutes, until beautifully golden and flaky.

8. Enjoy!

• Let them cool for a few minutes (if you can resist!).
• Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra indulgence.