Gipfeli Recipe: How to Make Perfect Swiss Croissants at Home

Gipfeli, the Swiss take on croissants, are flaky, buttery, and slightly denser than their French cousins. These golden, crescent-shaped pastries are a breakfast favorite in Switzerland, often enjoyed with coffee or hot chocolate. If you’ve ever wanted to bake them at home, this guide will take you through the process step by step, including ingredient swaps and variations to fit different diets.

What Is a Gipfeli?

Gipfeli (pronounced “gip-fuh-lee”) look similar to croissants but have a firmer texture. While croissants are known for their ultra-flaky layers, gipfeli have a more structured, bread-like bite. This makes them great for both sweet and savory fillings. You’ll find them in bakeries across Switzerland, Germany, and Austria, often served as part of a classic breakfast spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy supplies—just basic pantry staples.
• Beginner-Friendly: Less folding and resting time than traditional croissants.
• Customizable: Sweet, savory, vegan, or gluten-free—make them your way.

Ingredients for Homemade Gipfeli

Basic Dough Ingredients

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour (or bread flour for a chewier texture)
• 2 tbsp sugar (for a hint of sweetness)
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast or instant yeast
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (or water for a lighter version)
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg (for the dough)
• 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (for the egg wash)

Ingredient Substitutions

• Vegan: Use vegan margarine instead of butter, plant-based milk, and 2 tbsp applesauce instead of the egg.
• Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use almond, oat, or soy milk instead of regular milk.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. Warm the milk to about 100°F (38°C)—warm but not hot.
2. Stir in the sugar and yeast and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

Tip: If it doesn’t bubble, the yeast may be expired. Start fresh for the best results.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
2. Add the butter, rubbing it into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Pour in the yeast mixture and egg, stirring until a dough forms.

Tip: If the dough feels sticky, add 1 tbsp flour at a time. If too dry, add 1 tbsp milk.

Step 3: Knead and Let It Rise

1. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
2. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Roll and Shape

1. Punch down the dough and roll it into a ¼-inch thick rectangle.
2. Cut into triangles with a base of 3 inches and a height of 6 inches.
3. Roll each triangle from the base to the tip to form a crescent shape.

Tip: Lightly stretch the dough before rolling for extra layers.

Step 5: Second Rise and Egg Wash

1. Arrange the shaped gipfeli on a parchment-lined baking tray.
2. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
3. Brush with egg wash for a golden, glossy finish.

Step 6: Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Customizable Variations

Sweet Gipfeli

• Brush with honey or powdered sugar after baking.
• Fill with chocolate, jam, or almond paste before rolling.

Savory Gipfeli

• Add grated cheese inside the dough before rolling.
• Fill with ham, spinach, or mushrooms for a heartier version.

Spicy Version

• Mix chili flakes or pepper into the dough.
• Add spiced cheese or jalapeños as a filling.

Vegan Gipfeli

• Use vegan butter and plant-based milk.
• Brush with a mix of maple syrup and non-dairy milk instead of egg wash.

How to Serve Gipfeli

• Classic Breakfast: Pair with coffee or hot chocolate.
• Brunch Treat: Enjoy with butter, jam, or Nutella.
• Savory Snack: Serve with cheese, cold cuts, or scrambled eggs.
• Dessert Option: Drizzle with melted chocolate or icing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Gipfeli

• Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze baked gipfeli for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat Gipfeli

• Oven (Best Method): Warm at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 15–20 seconds (may soften the texture).
• Toaster Oven: Toast on low for 3–4 minutes.

Are Gipfeli Healthy?

• Energy Boost: Carbs and healthy fats provide sustained energy.
• Protein Source: Eggs and butter contribute to a small protein intake.
• Healthier Options: Swap white flour for whole wheat flour, and use plant-based fats or natural sweeteners.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make gipfeli ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate the shaped dough overnight and bake fresh in the morning.

2. Why didn’t my gipfeli rise properly?

Old yeast or a cold environment can slow rising. Make sure the dough rests in a warm place.

3. Can I make gipfeli without eggs?

Yes! Use applesauce, mashed banana, or a flaxseed egg instead.

4. How do I make crispy gipfeli?

Bake at a slightly higher temperature for the last 2–3 minutes.

5. What’s the difference between gipfeli and croissants?

Gipfeli are denser and use less butter, giving them a more structured bite.