How Croissant Dough Works

Flour, water, butter, yeast, sugar, and salt—these are the simple components of the ubiquitous French pastry that's known and loved worldwide for its flaky layers and tender interior. When mixed, kneaded, rested, folded, and rolled just right, these six ingredients make up a winning batch of laminated dough—with distinct layers that rise into a complex, cavernous labyrinth of deliciousness.