Layered Pastry for First-Timers: Breton Kouign Amann

Start by making a lean dough with 11 and 1/4 ounces of all purpose flour, 3/4 teaspoon of table salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of instant yeast in a stand mixer bowl.

Stir the dry ingredients together, then add 1 cup of room temperature water.

Mix on low for 1 minute until everything comes together, then increase to medium low and mix for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and shape it into a 5 by 5 square.

Place the dough on a greased plate, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest in the fridge for 1 hour to 24 hours.

Prepare the butter packet by folding a piece of parchment into a 6 by 9 inch rectangle.

In the stand mixer bowl, add 16 tablespoons of salted butter and 1/2 teaspoon of table salt, then mix on low for about 1 minute until well combined.

Transfer the butter mixture to the parchment packet and flatten it to about 1/2 inch thick, then refold the parchment to maintain the shape.

Chill the butter packet in the fridge for about 45 minutes, or up to 24 hours if prepared ahead.

Remove the dough from the fridge and roll it out on a floured surface to measure 18 by 6.5 inches, keeping the short side parallel to you.

Place the butter packet in the center of the dough and fold the dough over to encase the butter, pinching the seams closed to avoid air pockets.

Roll the encased dough out to 21 by 7 inches, using gentle pressure to help the butter spread evenly.

Brush off any excess flour from the top of the dough before folding it over in a simple trifold, then roll it out again to 21 by 7 inches for a second trifold.

Roll the dough into an 11 inch square to flatten the layers slightly.

Fold the corners of the square into the center to form a rough round shape, then squish the edges to compact it.

Flip the dough over, tuck the corners again, and roll it out to a 9.5 inch round.

Transfer the round dough into a greased 9 inch round pan.

Brush 1 tablespoon of milk over the pastry to help it bake golden, then score a decorative pattern on top.

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: