1-Preparing the Dough: Start by mixing warm milk, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active. Next, add the butter pieces, part of the flour, and salt to the mixture. Mix well until combined, then gradually add the remaining flour. Continue mixing until a soft dough forms.

2-Knead the dough: Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for 5 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic. This step develops the gluten structure, which is essential for creating those beautiful flaky layers later. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and let it rise for about 2 hours until nearly doubled in size.

3-Laminating the Dough: After the first rise, punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Roll it out to a 10×14-inch rectangle on a floured surface, then place it in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to chill. While the dough chills, prepare the lamination butter by beating the softened salted butter with flour until smooth.

4-Crucial lamination process: Now comes the crucial lamination process. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and spread the butter mixture evenly over its surface. Fold the dough into thirds like a letter, then roll it out again to a 9×12-inch rectangle. Return it to the refrigerator for 20 minutes. Repeat this process two more times for a total of three folds, chilling for 20 minutes after each fold. This technique creates the distinct layers that make cruffins so special.

5-Shaping and Baking: After completing the final fold and chilling, divide the dough into 3 equal portions. Roll each portion to 8×12 inches. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture (3/4 cup sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon cinnamon) evenly over the dough surface. Cut the dough into 1-inch strips, then layer and roll the strips into spirals. Place each spiral in a greased muffin cup.

6-Second rise and baking: Let the shaped cruffins rise for 1 hour until they look puffy. Optionally, you can apply an egg wash for a golden finish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and bake the cruffins for 25-28 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). They should be golden brown with deliciously crisp edges.

7-Final coating and optional filling: Cool the cruffins briefly, then coat them in the remaining cinnamon sugar while still warm. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and that signature cruffin crunch. Optionally, you can fill them with your desired spreads using a piping bag after baking for an extra special treat.