The Best Gipfeli Recipe: Flaky, Buttery, and So Easy to Make

Have you ever wondered why Swiss bakeries always smell like buttery heaven? The answer might just be the secret hiding in their golden, flaky croissants—called Gipfeli! If you’ve never heard of them, don’t worry. This post is going to guide you step-by-step through the Gipfeli recipe—a Swiss-style croissant that’s easier than you think and totally worth every bite!

Let’s find out what makes these crescent-shaped goodies so special. By the end, you’ll know how to make them from scratch, store them the right way, and even try fun new twists. Let’s roll into this delicious adventure.

What Is a Gipfeli? (And Why This Gipfeli Recipe Rocks!)

Gipfeli (pronounced gip-fuh-lee) is the Swiss cousin of the French croissant. It’s buttery, soft on the inside, and slightly crisp on the outside. Unlike French croissants that are super flaky, Gipfeli is a bit denser and less greasy, making it perfect for breakfast or snacks without the mess.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try:

• Ready in about 2 hours (including chill time!)
• Beginner-friendly (no fancy skills needed)
• Versatile (fill with chocolate, ham, cheese, or eat plain)
• Great for make-ahead breakfasts or school snacks

Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this gipfeli recipe is a fun and tasty way to try something new.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Gipfeli Recipe

Before we jump into rolling and shaping, let’s gather the key ingredients that bring Gipfeli to life:

Basic Dough Ingredients:

• All-purpose flour (4 cups) – Gives structure and body to the dough
• Instant yeast (2 tsp) – Helps the dough rise and become airy
• Sugar (2 tbsp) – Adds a slight sweetness
• Salt (1 tsp) – Balances the flavors
• Milk (1 cup, warm) – Makes the dough soft and rich
• Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened) – Adds that classic, creamy flavor
• Egg (1, for brushing) – Gives the Gipfeli a shiny, golden top

Ingredient Substitutes and Tips:

Use high-quality butter if you can—it makes a big difference in flavor!

Step-by-Step Instructions for This Easy Gipfeli Recipe

Making Gipfeli may look hard, but it’s really not! Here’s a simple breakdown:

Step 1: Mix the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it looks a bit foamy.
2. Add the sugar, salt, and flour. Mix until the dough starts coming together.
3. Add softened butter and knead by hand or with a mixer for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Chill and Roll

1. After the dough rises, punch it down (gently!) to remove air.
2. Place it in the fridge for 15–20 minutes. Chilled dough is easier to roll.
3. Roll the dough into a rectangle (about ½-inch thick).
4. Cut triangles about 5 inches wide at the base.

Step 3: Shape the Gipfeli

1. Start from the wide end of each triangle and roll tightly toward the tip.
2. Curve the ends in slightly to form a crescent shape.
3. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each.

Step 4: Second Rise

Let the shaped Gipfeli rest for another 20–30 minutes. This helps them puff up beautifully in the oven.

Step 5: Egg Wash & Bake

1. Beat an egg and gently brush the tops.
2. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Cool slightly before eating.

How to Build the Perfect Gipfeli: Assembly Tips

Want your Gipfeli to look as amazing as they taste? Here’s how:

🎨 Shaping Tips:

• Roll tight but don’t squish! You want soft layers inside.
• For even baking, keep your Gipfeli the same size.

Presentation Ideas:

• Dust with powdered sugar.
• Drizzle with honey or melted chocolate.
• Serve with jam, cheese, or even Nutella!

They look super cute on a wooden board with a side of coffee or fruit slices.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips for Gipfeli Recipe

Planning to bake ahead or save leftovers? Great idea!

Storing Tips:

• At room temp: Store in a sealed container for 2–3 days.
• In the fridge: Up to 5 days. Warm before serving.

Freezing Tips:

• Freeze raw dough after shaping. Place on a tray and freeze for 1 hour.
• Move to a bag or container. Freeze for up to 1 month.
• Bake from frozen: Add 5 more minutes to bake time.

Reheating:

• Oven: 300°F (150°C) for 5–8 minutes
• Air fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes

They taste just as fresh!

Fun Variations of the Gipfeli Recipe

Let’s get creative! Here are some tasty ways to twist your Gipfeli:

Sweet Fillings:

• Chocolate chips or Nutella – For a pain-au-chocolat vibe
• Cinnamon sugar butter – Like a croissant-cinnamon roll combo
• Jam or preserves – Raspberry, strawberry, or apricot

Savory Fillings:

• Ham and cheese – Classic and comforting
• Spinach and feta – Like a mini Swiss pie
• Egg and bacon – Breakfast in a bite!

Healthier Twists:

• Whole wheat flour + coconut oil
• Vegan butter and almond milk for dairy-free lovers

Have fun with flavors! Just don’t overstuff or the filling will ooze out.

Why You’ll Love This Gipfeli Recipe (Conclusion)

There’s something magical about homemade Gipfeli. They’re buttery, soft, and golden—without being too tricky to make. With this easy gipfeli recipe, you can bake up a little piece of Switzerland in your own kitchen. Plus, it’s so fun to twist the recipe to match your favorite flavors.

Give it a try this weekend. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your heart (and belly) will be full!

❓FAQs: Everything You Want to Know About the Gipfeli Recipe

1. What’s the difference between Gipfeli and croissants?

Gipfeli are less flaky and slightly denser. Croissants use more butter layers (lamination), while Gipfeli are easier and quicker to make.

2. Can I make Gipfeli without eggs?

Yes! Skip the egg wash or use plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly shine.

3. How healthy are Gipfeli?

They’re made with real ingredients and can be adjusted to suit your diet. Try whole wheat flour, vegan butter, or skip sugar to make them even healthier.

4. Do I need special tools?

Nope! Just a rolling pin, mixing bowl, baking sheet, and some parchment paper.

5. How long does the gipfeli recipe take?

About 2–2.5 hours from start to finish (includes rising and baking). Most of the time is just waiting for the dough to rest.

6. Can I freeze the dough or baked Gipfeli?

Yes! Freeze raw or baked Gipfeli. Reheat for a just-baked flavor.

7. Can I make mini Gipfeli?

Absolutely! Just cut smaller triangles and bake for a little less time. Great for parties or lunchboxes.

Bring a Touch of Handmade Magic to Your Home
If you’re loving the cozy, buttery magic of this gipfeli recipe, why not bring that same feeling into your home? Baking is about comfort, creativity, and love—and that’s exactly the spirit behind every item in my Artisanat Marrakech Chairish store. I’ve handpicked each piece from talented artisans in Morocco, where tradition and beauty go hand in hand.

Imagine serving your golden, flaky Gipfeli on a colorful hand-painted ceramic plate, or sipping your morning coffee from a cozy handmade mug that tells its own story. These aren’t just decorations—they’re treasures full of heart and heritage. You’ll find rustic wooden trays for breakfast in bed, soft woven textiles that add warmth to your dining table, and timeless kitchen pieces that make every day feel a little more special.

Just like this recipe, everything in the store is made with care, passed down through generations, and designed to bring joy. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece for your kitchen, a gift that feels extra thoughtful, or simply want to surround yourself with handmade beauty, you’ll find something to fall in love with.

So, after you’ve enjoyed your delicious Gipfeli, come take a stroll through the shop. I promise—it’s like a trip to a Moroccan market without leaving home. Let your kitchen feel as warm, welcoming, and creative as your favorite homemade pastry.

Homemade Gipfeli (Swiss Croissants)

Flaky, buttery, and golden brown—Gipfeli are Swiss-style croissants that make the perfect breakfast or snack. This easy-to-follow recipe shows you how to make them from scratch, whether you're filling them with cheese, ham, or enjoying them plain.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

2 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 50 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine Swiss European

Servings 4 people

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

  

• All-purpose flour 4 cups – Gives structure and body to the dough
• Instant yeast 2 tsp – Helps the dough rise and become airy
• Sugar 2 tbsp – Adds a slight sweetness
• Salt 1 tsp – Balances the flavors
• Milk 1 cup, warm – Makes the dough soft and rich
• Unsalted butter ½ cup, softened – Adds that classic, creamy flavor
• Egg 1, for brushing – Gives the Gipfeli a shiny, golden top

Notes

Step-by-Step Instructions for This Easy Gipfeli Recipe

Making Gipfeli may look hard, but it’s really not! Here’s a simple breakdown:

Step 1: Mix the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it looks a bit foamy.
2. Add the sugar, salt, and flour. Mix until the dough starts coming together.
3. Add softened butter and knead by hand or with a mixer for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Chill and Roll

1. After the dough rises, punch it down (gently!) to remove air.
2. Place it in the fridge for 15–20 minutes. Chilled dough is easier to roll.
3. Roll the dough into a rectangle (about ½-inch thick).
4. Cut triangles about 5 inches wide at the base.

Step 3: Shape the Gipfeli

1. Start from the wide end of each triangle and roll tightly toward the tip.
2. Curve the ends in slightly to form a crescent shape.
3. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each.

Step 4: Second Rise

Let the shaped Gipfeli rest for another 20–30 minutes. This helps them puff up beautifully in the oven.

Step 5: Egg Wash & Bake

1. Beat an egg and gently brush the tops.
2. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Cool slightly before eating.