
If you’ve ever strolled through the charming streets of Switzerland, you might have encountered the aroma of freshly baked Gipfeli (pronounced “gip-fuh-lee”). These delectable pastries, akin to croissants but with a unique Swiss twist, are a staple of Swiss bakeries and breakfast tables.
Now, you can bring the taste of Switzerland into your own kitchen with this authentic Gipfeli recipe, complete with the necessary equipment and essential nutritional information.
Gipfeli Recipe
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Plastic wrap
- Oven
Ingredients
- 500g (about 4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 10g (2 tsp) salt
- 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 10g (2 tsp) instant yeast
- 250ml (1 cup) warm milk
- 250g (1 cup) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast.
- Gradually add the warm milk while mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- After chilling, roll out the dough into a large rectangle.
- Spread the cubed cold butter evenly over two-thirds of the dough.
- Fold the unbuttered third over the buttered middle third, then fold the remaining buttered third over the top, creating layers.
- Roll out the dough again into a large rectangle and repeat the folding process two more times.
- After the final fold, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Cut the chilled dough into triangles and roll each triangle into a crescent shape.
- Place the shaped Gipfeli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each pastry.
- Brush the Gipfeli with the beaten egg wash.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.
- Allow the Gipfeli to cool slightly before serving.
Gipfeli Calorie
The calorie content of Gipfeli can vary based on factors such as size and ingredients used. On average, one Gipfeli pastry (approximately 60g) contains around 250-300 calories. This calorie count primarily comes from the flour, butter, and sugar used in the recipe. While Gipfeli are undoubtedly delicious, they are also a treat best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re mindful of your calorie intake.
Ideas to Savor Gipfeli
Gipfeli, with their buttery, flaky goodness, can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some ideas to savor these delightful Swiss pastries:
- Classic Breakfast: Enjoy Gipfeli the traditional Swiss way – alongside a cup of strong coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy and indulgent breakfast experience. You can also pair them with fruit preserves or Swiss cheese for added flavor.
- Brunch Spread: If you’re hosting a brunch gathering, incorporate Gipfeli into your spread. Serve them alongside other breakfast favorites like scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, fresh fruits, and yogurt for a balanced and elegant meal.
- Picnic Treat: Pack a basket with Gipfeli, cold cuts, cheese, and fresh fruit for a delightful picnic in the park or countryside. The portable nature of Gipfeli makes them an excellent choice for outdoor dining.
- Afternoon Snack: When you need a pick-me-up in the afternoon, reach for a Gipfeli. Their buttery layers and satisfying texture make them a perfect snack to enjoy with a cup of tea or as a standalone treat.
- Dessert Delight: Turn Gipfeli into a decadent dessert by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzling them with warm chocolate sauce or caramel. The combination of warm pastry and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
- Gourmet Sandwich: Get creative with Gipfeli by using them as the base for gourmet sandwiches. Fill them with sliced ham, Swiss cheese, arugula, and Dijon mustard for a delicious lunch option with a Swiss twist.
- Party Appetizer: Impress your guests by serving mini Gipfeli as appetizers at your next gathering. Fill them with savory fillings like smoked salmon and cream cheese or prosciutto and fig for bite-sized treats that will disappear quickly.
- Sweet Treats: Transform Gipfeli into sweet treats by filling them with Nutella, almond paste, or fruit compote. Dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Gipfeli Bread Pudding: Use leftover Gipfeli to make a decadent bread pudding. Tear the pastries into pieces, soak them in a mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla, then bake until golden and set. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or custard sauce.
- Gourmet Breakfast Sandwich: Make a gourmet breakfast sandwich using a sliced Gipfeli. Fill it with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, avocado, and arugula for a luxurious and satisfying meal to start your day.
Whether enjoyed as a simple breakfast or dressed up for a gourmet affair, Gipfeli offer endless possibilities for delicious dining experiences. Let your imagination run wild and experiment with different flavors and serving ideas to truly appreciate the versatility of these Swiss pastries.
With its flaky layers and buttery richness, Gipfeli embodies the essence of Swiss baking. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a steaming cup of coffee or as part of a leisurely brunch spread, these pastries are sure to delight your taste buds and transport you to the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland. So why not channel your inner Swiss baker and whip up a batch of homemade Gipfeli today?