Step 1: Dough Magic – Knead and Rise

• Mix flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a bowl.
• Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a dough forms.
• Knead for 8–10 minutes (or 5–6 minutes in a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.
• Let it rise in a greased bowl, covered, for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Step 2: Rolling in the Flavor

• Punch down the dough and divide into 6 equal pieces.
• Roll each into a very thin rectangle.
• Spread a thin layer of softened butter over each.
• Add optional fillings like cinnamon sugar or jam.
• Roll the rectangle into a tight log, then slice it lengthwise to reveal layers.

Step 3: Shape and Proof

• Coil each cut dough strip into a muffin tin, with layers facing outward.
• Let them rise again for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and flaky.

Step 5: Final Flourishes

• Let cruffins cool for 10 minutes in the tin before transferring to a wire rack.
• Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with chocolate, or sprinkle flaky salt for savory cruffins.