How to Make Kipfel: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Crescent Rolls

Kipfel, those delightful crescent-shaped rolls with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, are a beloved treat in many cultures. Whether you know them as rugelach, croissants, or simply crescent rolls, their buttery, flaky goodness is universally adored. While they might seem intimidating to make at home, this comprehensive guide will show you just how easy it is to achieve bakery-worthy kipfel in your own kitchen.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Before we dive into the baking process, let’s gather all the ingredients and tools we’ll need:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm milk (100-110°F)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

For the Filling:

• 1 cup finely ground walnuts
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon water

Equipment:

• Large mixing bowl
• Plastic wrap
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Let’s Make Kipfel!

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and yeast.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the eggs to the milk mixture and whisk until well combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Kipfel Dough

Step 2: Making the Filling

1. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the ground walnuts, sugar, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
2. Set the filling aside.

Step 3: Shaping and Filling the Kipfel

1. Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Divide the dough into two equal pieces.
3. Roll out one piece of dough into a 12-inch circle.
4. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough circle into 12 equal wedges.
5. Spread about 1-2 tablespoons of the nut filling onto the wide end of each wedge.
6. Starting at the wide end, roll each wedge up tightly towards the pointed end, forming a crescent shape.
7. Place the rolled kipfel onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each roll.
8. Repeat steps 3-7 with the remaining piece of dough and filling.

Shaped Kipfel

Step 4: Baking the Kipfel

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and water to make the egg wash.
3. Brush the tops of the kipfel with the egg wash.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Let the kipfel cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Kipfel:

• For extra flaky kipfel, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling and shaping.
• Don’t overfill the kipfel, as this may cause the filling to spill out during baking.
• If the kipfel start to brown too quickly during baking, cover them loosely with foil.

Enjoy!

Your homemade kipfel are ready to be devoured! These delightful treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of day. Serve them warm with a cup of coffee or tea, and savor the delicious flavors of your labor of love.

We hope you enjoyed this step-by-step guide to making kipfel. Be sure to share your baking adventures with us in the comments below! Happy baking!