Oriental Croissant Recipe: Zaatar-Filled Delight

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this unique twist on a classic pastry! Oriental croissants, a delightful fusion of French technique and Middle Eastern flavors, offer a captivating culinary experience. Imagine flaky, buttery layers infused with the aromatic warmth of zaatar, a blend of herbs and spices that evokes the sun-drenched landscapes of the Levant. This recipe elevates the humble croissant to new heights, creating a sophisticated yet approachable treat perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or a special occasion. The subtle sweetness of the dough perfectly complements the earthy, herbaceous notes of the zaatar filling.

Forget everything you think you know about croissants – this recipe is surprisingly accessible, even for beginner bakers. We'll guide you through each step, from creating the perfect dough to achieving that signature golden-brown crust. Ready to embark on this flavorful journey? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below!

Tools Needed

  • Oven
  • Mixing bowls
  • Rolling pin
  • Baking sheet
  • Pan

Ingredients

  • Fresh yeast
  • Warm water
  • Bread flour
  • Room temperature butter
  • Salt
  • Sugar
  • Room temperature milk
  • Zaatar filling
  • Sesame seeds
  • Egg wash

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Dough

  • Mix fresh yeast, warm water, and bread flour. Let rest for 45 minutes.
  • Add room temperature butter, salt, and sugar to the mixture. Mix well.
  • Add room temperature milk and bread flour. Cover the dough and let it rest for 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Mix fresh yeast, warm water, and bread flour. Let rest for 45 minutes.Add room temperature butter, salt, and sugar to the mixture. Mix well.Add room temperature milk and bread flour. Cover the dough and let it rest for 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Dough

Step 2. Layer and Chill the Dough

  • Prepare the butter and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
  • Roll the dough into a rectangle, add the chilled butter, and fold the dough. Roll again and chill for 1 hour. Repeat this process three times.
Prepare the butter and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.Roll the dough into a rectangle, add the chilled butter, and fold the dough. Roll again and chill for 1 hour. Repeat this process three times.
Layer and Chill the Dough

Step 3. Shape and Fill

  • After chilling, cut the dough into 7-8 even triangles.
  • Add Zaatar filling to each triangle.
  • Refrigerate the croissants overnight.
After chilling, cut the dough into 7-8 even triangles.Add Zaatar filling to each triangle.Refrigerate the croissants overnight.
Shape and Fill

Step 4. Bake to Perfection

  • The next day, fill a pan with hot water and place the croissants in the oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
  • Remove from the oven, brush with egg wash, add sesame seeds, and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 10 minutes, or until brown.
The next day, fill a pan with hot water and place the croissants in the oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.Remove from the oven, brush with egg wash, add sesame seeds, and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 10 minutes, or until brown.
Bake to Perfection

Read more: Emirati Chebab Pancakes: Authentic Arabic Breakfast Recipe

Tips

  • Ensure the butter is cold when layering the dough.
  • Enjoy the croissants warm or cold!

Nutrition

  • Calories: approximately 300-350 per croissant
  • Fat: 15-20g
  • Carbs: 35-45g
  • Protein: 5-7g

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the zaatar with other herbs or spices?

Yes! Experiment with other blends like sumac, oregano, or even a simple mix of thyme and rosemary. Adjust the amount to taste.

2. How can I store leftover croissants?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for longer storage. Reheat gently in the oven before serving.

3. Is it necessary to use a stand mixer for this recipe?

While a stand mixer makes the process easier, you can certainly make the dough by hand. It will just require a bit more elbow grease!


These zaatar-filled oriental croissants are a testament to the beautiful fusion of culinary traditions, resulting in a truly unique and satisfying treat. From the initial kneading to the final golden-brown bake, the process is rewarding and the outcome undeniably delicious. Enjoy the fragrant delight, and don't hesitate to share this recipe with fellow baking enthusiasts!