Homemade Cruffins

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Cruffins are a delightful hybrid between croissants and muffins, offering flaky, buttery layers wrapped in a muffin shape. They are a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, with their golden crust and soft, pull-apart interior. You can enjoy them plain or filled with jam, chocolate, or cinnamon sugar for added indulgence.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourinstant yeastgranulated sugarwarm milkunsalted buttersaltwatervanilla extractextra butter for layering

directions

In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Add flour, salt, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture and knead into a smooth dough.

Cover and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions.

Roll out each portion into a thin rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface.

Roll each rectangle tightly into a log, then cut lengthwise to expose layers.

Roll the halves into spirals and place in greased muffin tins, cut-side up.

Let rise again for 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Allow to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar or fill as desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 12 cruffins.Preparation time: 30 minutesFirst rise time: 1 hourSecond rise time: 30 minutesBaking time: 20-25 minutesTotal time: about 2.5 hours

Variations

Fill with Nutella or fruit jam before rolling for a sweet surprise.

Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before baking for a classic flavor.

Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrus note.

Drizzle with a glaze or chocolate after baking for extra indulgence.

storage/reheating

Store cruffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore flakiness.Freeze unbaked, shaped cruffins and bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to baking time.

FAQs

What is a cruffin?

A cruffin is a croissant-muffin hybrid, made by baking laminated dough in a muffin tin.

Can I use store-bought croissant dough?

Yes, for convenience, you can use store-bought puff pastry or croissant dough.

Why didn’t my cruffins rise properly?

Make sure your yeast is active and the dough is given enough time to rise in a warm place.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, shape the cruffins and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

How do I get defined layers?

Roll the dough thin and apply butter generously to ensure good lamination.

Are cruffins sweet or savory?

They can be both—fill with jam or chocolate for sweet, or cheese and herbs for savory.

Do I need special equipment?

A standard muffin tin works perfectly for baking cruffins.

Can I skip the second rise?

No, the second rise is crucial for light, airy layers.

What kind of flour should I use?

All-purpose flour works best for a balance of tenderness and structure.

Can I add toppings?

Yes, top with sugar, glaze, or drizzle with honey for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Homemade Cruffins combine the elegance of croissants with the comfort of muffins, making them an irresistible pastry you can bake at home. Whether you enjoy them plain or with sweet or savory fillings, they are sure to impress with their flaky texture and beautiful layers. Perfect for any occasion, these cruffins are worth every buttery bite.

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