Pastries – I Am Baking https://iambaking.com A Baking Archive For Bakers Thu, 26 Sep 2024 12:16:19 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 Delight Your Family with Irresistible Homemade Cream Horns: Master the Art of Flaky Pastry and Creamy Filling for a Showstopping Dessert https://iambaking.com/homemade-cream-horns/ Thu, 26 Sep 2024 22:16:45 +0000 https://iambaking.com/?p=4896 Delight Your Family with Irresistible Homemade Cream Horns

Get ready to elevate your dessert game with these mouthwatering homemade cream horns! Imagine biting into a flaky, buttery pastry filled with luscious, velvety cream – it’s a taste sensation that will have your family and friends begging for more. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to master the art of creating these showstopping treats that will make you the talk of any gathering. So, let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to crafting the perfect homemade cream horns!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Impressive dessert that looks professional but is surprisingly easy to make
  • Customizable fillings to suit any taste preference
  • Perfect for special occasions or weekend treats
  • Opportunity to showcase your baking skills

Essential Tools for Cream Horn Success

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s make sure you have the right tools for the job:

  • Cream horn molds or ice cream cones wrapped in foil
  • Rolling pin
  • Pastry brush
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Stand mixer or hand mixer
  • Piping bag with a star tip

The Ultimate Homemade Cream Horns Recipe

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 12 cream horns

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1/2 cup ice-cold water
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

For the Cream Filling:

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry

  1. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
  2. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring until the dough comes together.
  4. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

2. Shape and Bake the Cream Horns

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness.
  3. Cut the dough into 1/2 inch wide strips.
  4. Wrap each strip around a cream horn mold, slightly overlapping the edges.
  5. Place the wrapped molds on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
  8. Allow to cool completely before removing from molds.

3. Prepare the Cream Filling

  1. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.

4. Assemble Your Homemade Cream Horns

  1. Fill a piping bag fitted with a star tip with the whipped cream mixture.
  2. Pipe the cream into each pastry horn, starting from the pointed end and working your way up.
  3. Dust with additional powdered sugar if desired.

Tips for Cream Horn Perfection

  • Keep it cool: Ensure all your ingredients and tools are cold for the flakiest pastry.
  • Don’t overwork the dough: Handle the pastry as little as possible to maintain its delicate texture.
  • Get creative: Experiment with different fillings like chocolate mousse, pastry cream, or fruit compote.
  • Make ahead: The pastry shells can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Wrapping Up

Congratulations! You’ve just mastered the art of making homemade cream horns. These delectable treats are sure to impress your family and friends, and with a little practice, you’ll be whipping them up like a pro in no time. Remember, the key to perfect cream horns lies in the details – from the flaky pastry to the creamy filling, every element counts.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to create some serious dessert magic. Your taste buds (and your adoring fans) will thank you!

Ready to take your baking skills to the next level? Share your homemade cream horn creations on social media and tag us – we’d love to see what you come up with!

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Master the Art of French Puff Pastry: Home Bakers’ Secret to Flaky, Buttery Layers for Impressive Pastries https://iambaking.com/how-to-make-french-puff-pastry-dough/ Sat, 14 Sep 2024 14:51:47 +0000 https://iambaking.com/?p=4566 Master the Art of French Puff Pastry: Your Gateway to Culinary Greatness

French Puff Pastry is the crown jewel of baking, and today, we’re unlocking the secrets to creating this buttery, flaky masterpiece right in your own kitchen. By mastering this technique, you’ll elevate your baking game and impress everyone with your pastry prowess. Get ready to create croissants, turnovers, and other delectable treats that rival those found in Parisian bakeries!

The Magic of French Puff Pastry

What sets French Puff Pastry apart is its signature layers of butter and dough that create a light, airy texture and a rich, indulgent flavor. When baked, these layers puff up dramatically, resulting in a pastry that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Puff Pastry

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the star players in our French Puff Pastry:

  • All-purpose flour: The foundation of our dough
  • Unsalted butter: For those signature flaky layers
  • Salt: To enhance flavor
  • Ice-cold water: To bind the dough without melting the butter

The Recipe: French Puff Pastry

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 1/2 cups
Unsalted butter, chilled and cubed 2 cups (4 sticks)
Salt 1 teaspoon
Ice-cold water 1/2 cup

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in 1/2 cup (1 stick) of butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the butter block: On a piece of parchment paper, arrange the remaining 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) of butter in a square. Cover with another piece of parchment and roll into an 8-inch square. Chill until firm.
  3. Laminate the dough: Roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch square. Place the chilled butter block diagonally in the center of the dough. Fold the corners of the dough over the butter, sealing it completely.
  4. Roll and fold: Roll the dough into a 20×10-inch rectangle. Fold the dough like a letter, bringing the short ends into the center. This is your first “turn.” Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
  5. Repeat the process: Give the dough five more turns, chilling for 30 minutes between each turn. After the sixth turn, wrap the dough tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before using.

Pro Tips for Puff Pastry Success

  • Keep it cool: Temperature is crucial. Work quickly and return the dough to the refrigerator if it becomes too soft.
  • Be precise: Accurate measurements and even rolling are key to perfect layers.
  • Practice patience: Don’t rush the process. The resting periods are essential for developing those flaky layers.

Essential Tools for French Puff Pastry

To create your perfect French Puff Pastry, arm yourself with these kitchen essentials:

  • A large, smooth work surface
  • A high-quality rolling pin
  • Parchment paper
  • A pastry brush (for egg wash)
  • A sharp knife or pizza cutter

Putting Your French Puff Pastry to Use

Now that you’ve mastered the art of French Puff Pastry, the culinary world is your oyster! Use your homemade pastry to create:

  • Flaky croissants
  • Delicate mille-feuille
  • Savory cheese straws
  • Elegant fruit tarts
  • And so much more!

Your Journey to Pastry Perfection

Congratulations! You’ve just unlocked the secret to creating authentic French Puff Pastry at home. With practice, patience, and these expert tips, you’ll be crafting pastries that rival those found in the finest Parisian bakeries. Remember, the key to perfect puff pastry lies in the details – precise measurements, careful folding, and proper chilling times.

So, are you ready to elevate your baking game? Roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let’s create some pastry magic. Your journey to becoming a puff pastry pro starts now!

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Master Bakery-Quality Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls: Impress Family and Friends with This Foolproof Recipe That Delivers Irresistible Flavor and Texture https://iambaking.com/ultimate-sourdough-cinnamon-rolls-recipe/ Thu, 05 Sep 2024 18:23:02 +0000 https://iambaking.com/?p=3925 Master Bakery-Quality Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls: A Foolproof Recipe for Irresistible Flavor and Texture

Are you ready to elevate your baking game and create the most incredible Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls that will have your family and friends begging for more? Look no further! This foolproof recipe will guide you through the process of crafting bakery-quality rolls that boast an irresistible combination of tangy sourdough, warm cinnamon, and gooey sweetness. Get ready to impress everyone with your baking skills and fill your home with the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked perfection!

Why Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Are a Game-Changer

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are superior to their traditional counterparts:

  • Enhanced Flavor: The tangy notes of sourdough perfectly complement the sweet cinnamon filling, creating a complex and addictive taste profile.
  • Improved Texture: Sourdough fermentation results in a lighter, fluffier texture that melts in your mouth.
  • Better Digestibility: The long fermentation process breaks down gluten, making these rolls easier on your stomach.
  • Longer Shelf Life: Sourdough’s natural preservatives keep your rolls fresh for days (if they last that long!).

Essential Tools for Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Success

To ensure your Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly, gather these kitchen essentials:

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional, but recommended)
  • Rolling pin
  • 9×13 inch baking pan
  • Bench scraper
  • Pastry brush
  • Kitchen scale (for precise measurements)

The Ultimate Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Ingredients Quantity
For the Dough:
Active sourdough starter 150g (3/4 cup)
Warm milk 240ml (1 cup)
Unsalted butter, melted 85g (6 tbsp)
Large egg 1
All-purpose flour 450g (3 3/4 cups)
Granulated sugar 50g (1/4 cup)
Salt 1 tsp
For the Filling:
Unsalted butter, softened 85g (6 tbsp)
Brown sugar 150g (3/4 cup)
Ground cinnamon 2 tbsp
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
Cream cheese, softened 115g (4 oz)
Unsalted butter, softened 60g (1/4 cup)
Powdered sugar 120g (1 cup)
Vanilla extract 1 tsp

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the active sourdough starter, warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix well.
    • Add the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
    • Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes by hand or 5-7 minutes in a stand mixer until smooth and elastic.
    • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size.
  2. Make the Filling:
    • In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
  3. Shape the Rolls:
    • Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll into a 16×20 inch rectangle.
    • Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border along one long edge.
    • Starting from the long edge without the border, tightly roll the dough into a log.
    • Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
  4. Second Rise:
    • Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, leaving space between each roll.
    • Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours, or until puffy and doubled in size.
  5. Bake:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
  6. Prepare the Frosting:
    • While the rolls are baking, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  7. Finish and Serve:
    • Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for 5 minutes before spreading the cream cheese frosting on top.
    • Serve warm and enjoy your bakery-quality Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls!

Pro Tips for Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Perfection

  • Use an active starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is at its peak activity for the best rise and flavor.
  • Don’t rush the process: The long fermentation is key to developing that signature sourdough taste and texture.
  • Butter temperature matters: Use room temperature butter for the filling to achieve an even spread.
  • Get creative with add-ins: Try adding chopped nuts, raisins, or orange zest to the filling for exciting variations.
  • Make-ahead option: Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, then refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temperature before baking.

Wrapping Up: Your Gateway to Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Mastery

Congratulations! You’ve now got the ultimate recipe and insider tips to create mouthwatering Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls that will rival any bakery. The combination of tangy sourdough, warm cinnamon, and gooey sweetness is simply irresistible. Plus, with the added benefits of improved digestibility and longer shelf life, these rolls are a game-changer in the world of breakfast pastries.

Don’t be surprised if your friends and family start requesting these delectable treats for every gathering. So, fire up that oven, get your sourdough starter bubbling, and prepare to bask in the glory of your baking prowess. Your journey to becoming the ultimate Sourdough Cinnamon Roll master starts now!

Ready to elevate your baking game? Give this Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls recipe a try and watch as you transform into the breakfast hero your loved ones have been waiting for. Happy baking!

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Impress Your Family with Irresistible Peanut Butter and Cheese Puff Pastry: A Simple Guide for Busy Parents to Create Gourmet Snacks That Satisfy Both Sweet and Savory Cravings https://iambaking.com/how-to-make-peanut-butter-and-cheese-puff-pastry/ Mon, 02 Sep 2024 17:22:44 +0000 https://iambaking.com/?p=3985 Indulge in the Ultimate Savory Treat: Peanut Butter and Cheese Puff Pastry

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a Peanut Butter and Cheese Puff Pastry that’s guaranteed to impress! This irresistible combination of creamy peanut butter and savory cheese wrapped in flaky puff pastry is a game-changer for your next gathering or indulgent snack time. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make. Let’s dive into this mouth-watering recipe that’ll have everyone begging for seconds!

Ingredients and Equipment

Ingredients Equipment
  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Rolling pin
  • Knife or pizza cutter
  • Mixing bowl
  • Pastry brush

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a 12×12 inch square.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
  4. Spread the peanut butter and cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
  5. Carefully roll the pastry into a tight log, starting from one edge and rolling towards the opposite side.
  6. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the log into 1-inch thick rounds.
  7. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each piece.
  8. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash.
  9. Brush the tops of the pastry rounds with the egg wash for a golden finish.
  10. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
  11. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter and Cheese Puff Pastry

To elevate your Peanut Butter and Cheese Puff Pastry game, consider these pro tips:

  • Chill the log: After rolling the pastry, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to make slicing easier.
  • Experiment with cheeses: Try different cheese varieties like Gruyère or Gouda for unique flavor profiles.
  • Add a kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the filling for a spicy twist.
  • Make ahead: Prepare the rolls and freeze them before baking. When ready to serve, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

These Peanut Butter and Cheese Puff Pastry rolls are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

  • Serve as an appetizer at your next party
  • Pack in lunchboxes for a tasty midday treat
  • Enjoy as a savory breakfast pastry with your morning coffee
  • Pair with a crisp green salad for a light lunch

Ready to Impress?

Now that you’ve mastered the art of Peanut Butter and Cheese Puff Pastry, it’s time to wow your friends and family with this unique and delicious creation. The combination of creamy peanut butter and sharp cheese wrapped in flaky pastry is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. So, preheat that oven, roll out that pastry, and get ready to indulge in a flavor explosion that’ll have everyone coming back for more!

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Home Bakers: Master Irresistible Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls for Unforgettable Breakfasts and Impress Your Family with Tangy, Gooey Goodness https://iambaking.com/how-to-make-sourdough-cinnamon-rolls/ Sun, 25 Aug 2024 16:37:33 +0000 https://iambaking.com/?p=2612 Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat

Get ready to elevate your breakfast game with these irresistible Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls! Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, gooey, and tangy roll that’s perfectly balanced with sweet cinnamon and a rich cream cheese frosting. These homemade rolls are not just a treat for your taste buds; they’re also a fantastic way to use your sourdough starter and impress your family and friends with your baking skills.

Why Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls?

Sourdough adds a unique depth of flavor and a slight tanginess that perfectly complements the sweetness of traditional cinnamon rolls. Plus, the natural fermentation process makes these rolls easier to digest and adds nutritional benefits. It’s a win-win situation for your palate and your gut!

What You’ll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather our ingredients and tools:

  • Ingredients: Active sourdough starter, all-purpose flour, milk, butter, eggs, sugar, salt, cinnamon, brown sugar, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
  • Tools: Large mixing bowl, stand mixer (optional), rolling pin, 9×13 inch baking pan, pastry brush, and a sharp knife or dental floss for cutting rolls.

The Recipe

Ingredients Instructions
  • 1 cup active sourdough starter
  • 3/4 cup warm milk
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 egg
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp salt

For the filling:

  • 1/4 cup softened butter
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp cinnamon

For the frosting:

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  1. In a large bowl, mix sourdough starter, warm milk, melted butter, and egg.
  2. Add flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead for 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 4-6 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
  5. Roll out dough into a 16×20 inch rectangle.
  6. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon mixture.
  7. Roll up tightly from the long side and cut into 12 rolls.
  8. Place rolls in a greased 9×13 inch pan and let rise for 1-2 hours.
  9. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  10. While rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by beating cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
  11. Spread frosting over warm rolls and serve.

Pro Tips for Perfect Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

  • Temperature matters: Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
  • Don’t rush the rise: The long fermentation is key to developing that signature sourdough flavor.
  • Use dental floss: For clean cuts, slide unflavored dental floss under the roll and cross the ends to slice through.
  • Make ahead: You can prepare these rolls the night before and bake them fresh in the morning.

Serving and Storing

These Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are best served warm, right out of the oven. If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for that fresh-baked taste.

Ready to Roll?

Now that you’re armed with this mouthwatering Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls recipe, it’s time to get baking! The tangy sourdough combined with the sweet cinnamon filling creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. So fire up that oven, dust off your rolling pin, and prepare to become the breakfast hero in your household. Don’t forget to snap a pic of your creation and share it with us – we can’t wait to see your delicious results!

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Busy Parents: Achieve Bakery-Quality Croissants in Minutes with this Microwave Hack for Soft, Flaky Perfection https://iambaking.com/mummys-cooking-microwave-croissants-soft-inside/ Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:11:35 +0000 https://iambaking.com/mummys-cooking-microwave-croissants-soft-inside/ Microwave Croissants: The Ultimate Hack for Quick and Delicious Pastries

Craving buttery, flaky croissants but don’t have hours to spare? Microwave croissants are about to revolutionize your baking game! This ingenious method allows you to enjoy freshly-baked croissants in a fraction of the time, without compromising on taste or texture. Let’s dive into this game-changing recipe that will have you savoring warm, homemade croissants in minutes!

Why Microwave Croissants Are a Game-Changer

  • Save time: Ready in minutes, not hours
  • Convenience: Perfect for busy mornings or unexpected guests
  • Customizable: Easily add your favorite fillings
  • No special equipment needed: Just your microwave and basic kitchen tools

The Recipe

Ingredients Instructions Cooking Info
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp instant yeast
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into thin slices
  1. Mix flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
  2. Add milk, melted butter, and egg. Knead into a soft dough.
  3. Roll out dough into a rectangle. Place butter slices on 2/3 of the dough.
  4. Fold the unbuttered third over the center, then fold the other side on top.
  5. Roll out and fold twice more. Chill for 15 minutes.
  6. Cut into triangles and roll into crescents.
  7. Microwave each croissant for 45-60 seconds on high.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-60 seconds per croissant
Servings: 6-8 croissants

Recommended Kitchen Tools

  • Microwave-safe plate
  • Rolling pin
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife or pizza cutter

Tips for Perfect Microwave Croissants

  1. Don’t overwork the dough: Handle it gently to maintain flakiness.
  2. Keep ingredients cold: This helps create those signature buttery layers.
  3. Experiment with fillings: Try chocolate, cheese, or ham for variety.
  4. Watch closely: Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave’s power.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your microwave croissants warm with jam, Nutella, or simply enjoy them on their own. They’re perfect for a quick breakfast, afternoon snack, or as a impressive addition to your brunch spread.

The Ultimate Hack

Microwave croissants are the ultimate hack for satisfying your pastry cravings in record time. With this innovative recipe, you can enjoy warm, flaky croissants whenever the mood strikes. So why wait? Give this method a try and prepare to be amazed by the results. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you!

Ready to elevate your baking game? Start making these incredible microwave croissants today and experience the magic for yourself!

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