Desserts > French > French Pastry

Kouign Amann Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- 9-inch cake pan

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Mix on low speed until combined.

2. Add the warm water and mix on low speed until a dough forms.

3. Increase the speed to medium and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.

4. Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

5. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

7. Spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

8. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the butter.

9. Fold the dough in thirds like a letter, then fold it in half to create a square.

10. Roll out the dough again into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

11. Cut the dough into 9 squares.

12. Grease a 9-inch cake pan and place one square of dough in the center.

13. Place the remaining squares of dough around the center square, slightly overlapping each other.

14. Brush the top of the dough with any remaining butter and sugar mixture.

15. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy.

16. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before removing from the pan.


Time:
Preparation time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
9 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour.
- Instant yeast can be used instead of active dry yeast.
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter.

Variations:
- Add sliced apples or cinnamon to the butter and sugar mixture for a different flavor.
- Use a muffin tin instead of a cake pan to create individual servings.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before spreading it on the dough.
- Be careful not to overwork the dough when kneading it.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place to ensure it doubles in size.

Storage instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warm and crispy.

Presentation ideas:
Serve on a plate with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle with chopped nuts or drizzle with caramel sauce.

Pairings:
Coffee or tea

Suggested side dishes:
Fresh fruit or yogurt

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
- If the top is browning too quickly, cover with foil and continue baking.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all surfaces before and after handling the dough.

Food history:
Kouign Amann is a traditional pastry from Brittany, France. It was created in the 1800s and is made with butter, sugar, and dough.

Flavor profiles:
Sweet, buttery, and crispy.

Serving suggestions:
Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or as a dessert.

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Region: French

Taste: Buttery, Sweet, Rich, Caramelized, Nutty