Gipfeli Recipe from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Swiss Delight

Gipfeli Recipe from Scratch

Flaky, golden, and irresistibly buttery—Gipfeli is Switzerland’s beloved take on the classic croissant. A staple in Swiss bakeries and breakfast tables, this crescent-shaped pastry is slightly less buttery than its French counterpart but just as delicious. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee, spread with jam, or served alongside cheese, Gipfeli Recipe from Scratch is a delightful treat that brings a touch of Swiss tradition to every bite.

In this recipe, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide to making authentic homemade Gipfeli from scratch. You’ll learn how to prepare the dough, shape the pastry, and bake it to flaky perfection—all with easy-to-follow instructions. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will help you recreate the authentic Swiss bakery experience in your kitchen. Let’s get started!

What is Gipfeli? A Traditional Swiss Pastry

A Swiss Breakfast Staple with a French Influence

Gipfeli is Switzerland’s answer to the French croissant—a flaky, crescent-shaped pastry that is lighter and slightly less buttery than its French counterpart. Found in nearly every Swiss bakery and café, Gipfeli is a beloved breakfast treat, often enjoyed with coffee, jam, butter, or honey. While croissants are known for their ultra-buttery and airy texture, Gipfeli tends to be a bit denser, with a slightly firmer bite but still maintaining a delicate, layered interior.

The Origins of Gipfeli

The word “Gipfeli” is derived from the German word “Gipfel,” meaning “peak” or “summit,” which reflects its crescent shape. Although Switzerland shares cultural influences from France, Germany, and Italy, Gipfeli is more commonly associated with the German-speaking regions of Switzerland, where it has been a breakfast staple for centuries.

While its origins trace back to the Austrian Kipferl (a crescent-shaped pastry dating back to the 13th century), the modern Gipfeli evolved alongside the French croissant, incorporating elements of laminated dough to create a flakier texture. Today, Gipfeli is a symbol of Swiss baking culture, often served alongside Zopf bread, butter pretzels, and Bircher muesli in traditional Swiss breakfasts.

Gipfeli vs. Croissant: What’s the Difference?

Although Gipfeli and croissants may look similar, they have key differences that set them apart:

Feature	Gipfeli (Swiss)	Croissant (French)
Texture	Slightly denser, firmer layers	Light, airy, and ultra-flaky
Butter Content	Less buttery, milder taste	High butter content, rich flavor
Dough	Can be made with fewer laminated layers	Traditional laminated dough for maximum flakiness
Flavor	More neutral, often eaten plain	Rich, buttery taste, often enjoyed alone
Shape	Slightly tighter crescent	More open crescent with pronounced layers

Different Variations of Gipfeli

While the classic butter Gipfeli remains the most popular version, there are several delicious variations found across Switzerland: Gipfeli Recipe from Scratch

Käse-Gipfeli (Cheese Gipfeli) – A savory version made with Swiss cheese, perfect for breakfast or snacks.

Butter Gipfeli – The traditional, lightly buttery version, commonly found in Swiss bakeries.

Fondant Gipfeli – Glazed with a sweet fondant topping for a touch of sweetness.

Schoggi-Gipfeli (Chocolate Gipfeli) – Filled with melted chocolate or Nutella for a dessert-like treat.

Vollkorn-Gipfeli (Whole Wheat Gipfeli) – Made with whole grain flour for a healthier alternative.

Mandel-Gipfeli (Almond Gipfeli) – Topped with slivered almonds and sometimes filled with almond paste.

Why You Should Try Making Gipfeli at Home

Baking Gipfeli from scratch allows you to experience the authentic flavors of Swiss baking while controlling the ingredients for healthier, fresher pastries. Whether you enjoy them plain, filled, or topped with a sweet glaze, homemade Gipfeli is a rewarding treat that brings a taste of Switzerland into your kitchen.

Would you like to explore a step-by-step guide on making authentic Swiss Gipfeli at home? Keep reading for the full recipe!

Ingredients You Need for Homemade Gipfeli

1. All-Purpose Flour (or Bread Flour) – The Foundation of the Dough

Flour is the base of any pastry dough, and choosing the right type can impact the texture of your Gipfeli.

• All-purpose flour works well and gives a balanced texture, making it a great choice for home bakers.
• Bread flour has a higher protein content, which can create a slightly chewier texture, making the layers more distinct.
• For a healthier alternative, you can use whole wheat flour, but this will make the Gipfeli denser and less flaky.

Tip: Sifting the flour before mixing helps aerate it, making the dough lighter and easier to work with.

2. Butter – The Secret to Flaky Layers

Butter is what gives Gipfeli its rich flavor and delicate, flaky texture. It is used both in the dough and during the folding process to create layers.

• Unsalted butter is preferred because it allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe.
• The butter should be cold when incorporated into the dough to help form distinct layers.
• Some bakers use European-style butter (with a higher fat content) for an extra rich and authentic taste.

Tip: If you want a lighter alternative, you can substitute margarine, but this will slightly change the taste and texture.

3. Yeast – The Key to a Light, Airy Dough

Yeast helps the dough rise, creating a soft, fluffy interior that balances the crisp, flaky exterior.

• Instant yeast is the easiest option, as it can be mixed directly into the flour without proofing.
• Active dry yeast needs to be activated in warm milk before being added to the dough.
• If using fresh yeast, you’ll need about twice the amount compared to dry yeast.

Tip: To check if your yeast is active, mix it with warm milk and sugar and wait for it to foam—this means it’s alive and ready to use!

4. Milk – Enhancing Flavor & Softness

Milk gives Gipfeli a richer taste and contributes to the soft, tender crumb inside.

• Whole milk is ideal, as the fat content enhances the flavor.
• Skim or plant-based milk can be used, but the texture may be slightly different.

Tip: Make sure the milk is lukewarm (about 100°F/38°C) when mixing with yeast to help activate it properly.

5. Sugar – A Touch of Sweetness

While Gipfeli isn’t overly sweet, a small amount of granulated sugar helps balance the flavor and enhance the golden-brown crust during baking.

• A little sugar feeds the yeast, improving the fermentation process.
• For a healthier option, you can substitute honey or maple syrup, but this may slightly alter the texture. Gipfeli Recipe from Scratch

Tip: If you’re making savory Gipfeli (like cheese-filled ones), you can reduce or omit the sugar.

6. Salt – Balancing Flavor

Salt enhances the flavor of the dough and helps strengthen gluten formation, which is essential for structure.

• Always use fine sea salt or table salt to ensure even distribution in the dough.
• Don’t mix salt directly with yeast—it can kill it! Instead, mix it with the flour first.

Tip: A pinch of salt in the egg wash can also help give the crust an even richer golden color.

7. Egg – For a Golden, Glossy Finish

An egg wash (a mixture of egg and milk or water) is brushed over the Gipfeli before baking to create a shiny, golden-brown crust.

• Use one whole egg, beaten with a tablespoon of milk or water, for the best results.
• If you want a deeper shine, use only the yolk.

Tip: For an extra crispy crust, add a tiny pinch of sugar to the egg wash before brushing.

Optional Ingredients for Variations

If you want to experiment with different flavors, consider these optional ingredients:

Vanilla Extract or Citrus Zest – Adds an aromatic twist to the dough.

Chocolate Chips or Nutella – For a Schoggi-Gipfeli (Swiss chocolate-filled version).

Almond Paste or Ground Almonds – To create a Mandel-Gipfeli.

Cheese or Ham – Perfect for a savory version.

Final Thoughts

Each of these ingredients contributes to the perfect homemade Gipfeli—flaky, golden, and delicious! Now that you know the key ingredients and their roles, it’s time to start baking. Continue reading for a step-by-step guide to making authentic Swiss Gipfeli from scratch!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Gipfeli from Scratch

Ingredients for Fondant Gipfeli

To make this delightful version of Gipfeli, you’ll need: Gipfeli Recipe from Scratch

For the Dough:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ tsp instant yeast

½ cup warm milk

2 tbsp granulated sugar

½ tsp salt

5 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)

1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Fondant Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2-3 tbsp warm milk or water

½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)

For the Filling (Optional):

½ cup chocolate ganache, vanilla cream, or almond paste

Step-by-Step Instructions for Fondant Gipfeli

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar, letting it activate for about 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and butter, then knead until smooth and elastic.
3. Cover and let the dough rise for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Gipfeli

1. Roll out the dough into a thin rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
2. Cut into triangles and gently stretch them.
3. If adding a filling, place a small spoonful of chocolate, vanilla cream, or almond paste at the base of each triangle.
4. Roll each triangle from the base to the tip, forming a crescent shape.

Step 3: Proof and Bake

1. Place the shaped Gipfeli on a baking sheet and let them rise for 30 minutes.
2. Brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
3. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.

Step 4: Prepare the Fondant Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, warm milk (or water), and vanilla extract until smooth.

Once the Gipfeli has cooled slightly, drizzle the fondant glaze over the top.

Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to restore freshness.

This Fondant Gipfeli Recipe takes the classic Swiss pastry to the next level, making it a sweet, indulgent treat perfect for any occasion! Would you like more variations, such as chocolate-dipped Gipfeli or almond-crusted Gipfeli? Let me know!

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Swiss Gipfeli

To keep your pastries fresh longer, read our Guide to Storing Homemade Pastries.

1. Choosing the Right Ingredients

Use High-Quality Butter for the Best Flavor & Flakiness

• European-style butter (with at least 82% fat content) is ideal for Gipfeli because it has less water and more flavor.
• Cold butter is essential for creating distinct, flaky layers in the dough.
• Avoid using margarine, as it won’t produce the same rich taste and texture.

Pro Tip: If you want an extra buttery flavor, try using cultured butter, which has a slightly tangy taste and enhances the depth of flavor.

Select the Right Flour

• All-purpose flour works well for a balanced texture.
• Bread flour (with higher protein content) creates a slightly chewier and more structured pastry.
• If you want a healthier alternative, you can substitute whole wheat flour for up to 25% of the total flour, but using too much will make the Gipfeli dense.

Use the Right Yeast for a Good Rise

• Instant yeast is the easiest option as it can be mixed directly into the flour.
• Active dry yeast requires activation in warm milk with sugar for 5-10 minutes before use.
• Fresh yeast can be used, but you’ll need to double the amount compared to dry yeast.

Pro Tip: Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Old yeast won’t rise properly, leading to dense Gipfeli.

2. Mastering the Dough for the Perfect Texture

Knead Until Smooth & Elastic

• Proper kneading develops the gluten, which gives the dough its structure and stretchability.
• Knead for 8-10 minutes by hand or 5-7 minutes in a stand mixer until the dough is smooth.

How to Check if Your Dough is Ready: Perform the windowpane test—stretch a small piece of dough between your fingers. If it forms a thin, translucent sheet without tearing, it’s ready.

Let the Dough Rise Properly

• The first rise should be 1-2 hours or until the dough doubles in size.
• The second rise (after shaping) should be 30-45 minutes to allow the Gipfeli to puff up before baking.
• If your kitchen is cold, let the dough rise in an oven with just the light on or in a warm spot.

Pro Tip: Don’t rush the rising process! Slow fermentation leads to better flavor and lighter texture.

3. Rolling & Shaping Like a Pro

Roll the Dough Evenly

• Use a light touch when rolling to avoid pressing out too much air.
• Roll the dough into a large rectangle (¼ inch thick) before cutting into triangles.
• If making buttery Gipfeli, chill the dough slightly before rolling to keep the butter firm.

How to Shape the Perfect Gipfeli

• Cut the dough into triangular pieces (about 4-5 inches wide at the base).
• Slightly stretch each triangle before rolling it up tightly from the base to the tip.
• Place the Gipfeli tip-side down on the baking sheet to prevent unrolling during baking.

Pro Tip: For extra flakiness, let the shaped Gipfeli chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before baking.

4. The Secret to a Golden, Flaky Crust

Apply the Perfect Egg Wash

• Brush each Gipfeli with an egg wash (1 beaten egg + 1 tbsp milk or water) for a shiny, golden-brown crust.
• For an extra glossy finish, apply a second layer of egg wash just before baking.
• If you prefer a lighter crust, use only egg white instead of the whole egg.

Pro Tip: Adding a tiny pinch of salt or sugar to the egg wash enhances the color and shine.

Bake at the Right Temperature

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes before baking.
• Baking at a slightly higher temperature (400°F / 200°C) for the last 2-3 minutes gives a crispier exterior. Gipfeli Recipe from Scratch
• Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.

Pro Tip: If your Gipfeli are browning too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil for the last few minutes.

5. Storing & Reheating for Maximum Freshness

How to Store Gipfeli

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Not recommended, as it makes them dry out faster.
• Freezing: Place unbaked Gipfeli on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a ziplock bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating for a Freshly Baked Taste

• To reheat baked Gipfeli, warm them in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.
• For frozen, unbaked Gipfeli, let them thaw for 1 hour at room temperature, then bake as usual.

Pro Tip: Place a small bowl of water in the oven while reheating to help maintain moisture and prevent drying out.

6. Creative Variations & Flavor Enhancements

Sweet Variations:

• Chocolate-Filled Gipfeli – Add Nutella or chocolate chips inside before rolling.
• Almond Gipfeli – Fill with almond paste and top with slivered almonds.
• Cinnamon Sugar Gipfeli – Sprinkle the dough with cinnamon and sugar before rolling.

Savory Variations:

• Cheese & Herb Gipfeli – Fill with grated Gruyère or Emmental cheese and sprinkle with dried herbs.
• Ham & Cheese Gipfeli – Add thin slices of ham and cheese for a delicious twist.
• Garlic Butter Gipfeli – Brush with garlic-infused butter before baking.

Pro Tip: Experiment with fillings, but be careful not to overstuff, as too much filling can cause leakage during baking.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the art of making Swiss Gipfeli takes practice, but with these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to create bakery-quality pastries at home. Remember to focus on quality ingredients, proper kneading, careful shaping, and precise baking techniques.

Now that you know the secrets to perfect Gipfeli, why not try some fun variations or serve them with Swiss hot chocolate for an authentic experience?

Serving & Enjoying Your Homemade Gipfeli

1. Classic Ways to Serve Gipfeli

Swiss Gipfeli are traditionally enjoyed fresh and warm, either plain or with simple accompaniments. Here are some classic serving ideas:

a) Butter & Jam – A Swiss Breakfast Staple

• A warm Gipfeli with butter and jam is the ultimate Swiss breakfast classic.
• Fruit preserves like apricot, raspberry, or strawberry complement the buttery layers beautifully.
• For a homemade touch, try making your own fruit compote with fresh seasonal fruits.

Pro Tip: Lightly toast your Gipfeli and spread cold butter on top for a melt-in-your-mouth experience!

b) Honey & Fresh Fruits for a Natural Sweetness

• Drizzle warm Gipfeli with Swiss honey for a delicious, natural sweetness.
• Pair with fresh berries, sliced apples, or pears for a refreshing and healthy twist.
• Serve with a side of Greek yogurt for an added protein boost.

c) Served with Coffee or Hot Chocolate

• In Switzerland, Gipfeli is often enjoyed with a cup of café crème, cappuccino, or espresso.
• Swiss hot chocolate (rich and creamy) makes an indulgent pairing, especially on cold mornings.
• If you prefer tea, a light Earl Grey or chamomile tea pairs beautifully with the delicate buttery flavors of Gipfeli.

Pro Tip: For an authentic Swiss café experience, dip your Gipfeli in hot chocolate or coffee—just like the locals do!

2. Turning Gipfeli into a Decadent Dessert

While Gipfeli are often enjoyed for breakfast, they can also be transformed into mouthwatering desserts! Here are some creative ways to elevate your pastries:

a) Chocolate-Dipped Gipfeli

• Melt dark, milk, or white chocolate and dip one end of the Gipfeli for a gourmet touch.
• Sprinkle with crushed nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios) for extra crunch.
• Let the chocolate set before serving for a luxurious treat.

b) Gipfeli with Whipped Cream & Berries

• Slice a Gipfeli in half and fill it with fresh whipped cream and strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.
• Dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
• This makes a perfect light and elegant dessert for brunch or afternoon tea.

c) Gipfeli Bread Pudding

• If you have day-old Gipfeli, repurpose them into a rich bread pudding.
• Tear the Gipfeli into chunks and soak them in a custard mixture (milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla).
• Bake until golden brown, then serve warm with vanilla sauce or caramel drizzle.

Pro Tip: Leftover Gipfeli also makes a great base for French toast—just dip them in an egg mixture and fry until golden!

3. Savory Ways to Enjoy Gipfeli

While Gipfeli is often associated with sweet flavors, they also make a fantastic base for savory creations. Here’s how to enjoy them with a more hearty twist:

a) Gipfeli Breakfast Sandwich

• Slice a Gipfeli in half and fill it with scrambled eggs, cheese, and crispy bacon.
• Add a spread of herbed cream cheese for extra flavor.
• Perfect for a quick, satisfying breakfast on the go.

b) Ham & Cheese Stuffed Gipfeli

• Warm up a Gipfeli and fill it with Swiss Gruyère cheese and thinly sliced ham.
• Toast lightly for a melty, savory delight.
• Pair with a side salad for a balanced meal.

c) Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese Gipfeli

• Spread cream cheese on a warm Gipfeli and top with smoked salmon and fresh dill.
• Add capers and thinly sliced red onions for a gourmet brunch experience.

Pro Tip: Serve savory-filled Gipfeli with a glass of sparkling wine or fresh orange juice for an elegant meal!

4. How to Serve Gipfeli for Special Occasions

Gipfeli is perfect for more than just everyday meals—it can also be a showstopper at gatherings and celebrations!

a) Gipfeli on a Brunch Platter

• Arrange freshly baked Gipfeli on a beautiful wooden board.
• Add bowls of jam, honey, Nutella, butter, and fresh fruit for a self-serve experience.
• Serve alongside croissants, cheese, cold cuts, and mimosas for an elegant brunch spread.

b) Gipfeli for Afternoon Tea

• Serve mini Gipfeli with tea sandwiches, macarons, and delicate pastries.
• Offer a selection of teas, including black tea, green tea, and herbal infusions.
• Decorate with fresh flowers and linen napkins for a sophisticated touch.

c) Gipfeli for Holiday Celebrations

• During Christmas, fill Gipfeli with spiced apple compote or marzipan for a festive twist.
• For Valentine’s Day, dip them in pink-tinted white chocolate and sprinkle with edible rose petals.
• At Easter brunch, serve alongside deviled eggs, spring salads, and fruit tarts.

Pro Tip: Create a personalized Gipfeli station where guests can fill and top their own pastries for a fun, interactive dining experience!

5. Storing & Reheating Gipfeli for the Best Experience

Freshly baked Gipfeli are best enjoyed warm, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to keep them tasting great: Homemade Gipfeli

How to Store Gipfeli:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked Gipfeli on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Refrigeration: Not recommended, as it makes the pastry dry out faster.

How to Reheat Gipfeli:

• Oven Method (Best Option): Warm at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to restore crispness.
• Microwave Method: Heat for 10-15 seconds, but note that this may soften the crust.
• Toaster Oven: A quick 2-3 minutes at medium heat works great for restoring flakiness.

Pro Tip: To keep Gipfeli fresh longer, wrap them in aluminum foil before storing.

Final Thoughts

Whether you prefer sweet or savory Gipfeli, classic or creative pairings, there are endless ways to enjoy this beloved Swiss pastry. From breakfast spreads and brunch gatherings to elegant desserts and festive treats, Gipfeli is versatile, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

Now that you know how to serve and enjoy your homemade Gipfeli, which pairing will you try first? Let us know in the comments below!

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of making Gipfeli from scratch, Homemade Gipfeli from preparing the dough to achieving the perfect golden, flaky layers. Whether you’re savoring them with a warm cup of coffee in the morning, serving them as part of an elegant brunch, or enjoying them as a light and buttery treat in the afternoon, these Swiss pastries bring a touch of authenticity and tradition to your kitchen.