KEY INFO
Prep Time: 5-30 minutes
Cook Time: 10-30 minutes
Total Time: 15-60 minutes
Servings: 6-12 pastries
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Dietary: Vegetarian (adaptable for vegan/gluten-free)
ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Rolling pin (or clean wine bottle)
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Pastry brush (optional)
BASE INGREDIENTS
For Basic Pastry Dough:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1¼ cups (280g) very cold butter, cubed
- ½ cup (120ml) ice-cold water
- ¼ tsp salt
For Egg Wash:
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp water
METHOD
1. Prep Work
- Measure ingredients and chill butter/water
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Line baking sheets with parchment
2. Make the Dough
- Cut cold butter into flour and salt until crumbly
- Add ice water gradually, mix until just combined
- DO NOT OVERMIX
3. Shape & Fold
- Turn onto floured surface
- Roll into rectangle
- Fold like letter
- Chill 15 minutes
- Repeat 2-3 times
4. Final Steps
- Roll to desired thickness
- Cut shapes
- Add fillings if using
- Brush with egg wash
- Bake 15-20 minutes until golden brown
CRUCIAL TIPS
- Keep everything COLD
- Don’t overwork the dough
- Look for golden color and flaky layers
- Cool completely before storing
STORAGE & VARIATIONS
Storage:
- Room temp: 2-3 days in airtight container
- Freezer: Up to 3 months well-wrapped
Common Variations:
- Sweet: Add fruit, chocolate, or nuts
- Savory: Cheese, herbs, or meat fillings
- Vegan: Use plant-based butter
- Gluten-free: Swap for GF flour blend
