Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for Shortcrust Pastry

250 grams all-purpose flour (2 cups)
125 grams unsalted butter, chilled (1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon)
75 grams powdered sugar (2/3 cup)
1 large egg, chilled
We recommend:
For all-purpose flour:
Prime Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour, 22 Ounce (Pack of 4)
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(9,312) Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour, 22 Ounce (Pack of 4) $23.96 View details Prime Antimo Caputo Chefs Flour - Italian Double Zero 00 - Soft Wheat for Pizza Dough, Bread, & Pasta, 2.2 Lb (Pack of 2)
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(15,802) Antimo Caputo Chefs Flour - Italian Double Zero 00 - Soft Wheat for Pizza Dough, Bread, & Pasta, 2.2 Lb (Pack of 2) $16.99 View details Prime best seller King Arthur, Measure for Measure Flour, Certified Gluten-Free, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Kosher, 3 Pounds, Packaging May Vary
4.7
(20,691) King Arthur, Measure for Measure Flour, Certified Gluten-Free, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Kosher, 3 Pounds, Packaging May Vary $8.62 View details
For unsalted butter:
Prime Kevala Cashew Butter 7 Lbs Pail
4.5
(38) Kevala Cashew Butter 7 Lbs Pail $83.62 View details Prime best seller 4th & Heart Original Grass-Fed Ghee, Clarified Butter, Keto, Pasture Raised, Lactose and Casein Free, Certified Paleo (9 Ounces)
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(17,685) 4th & Heart Original Grass-Fed Ghee, Clarified Butter, Keto, Pasture Raised, Lactose and Casein Free, Certified Paleo (9 Ounces) $11.49 View details Prime 4th & Heart Himalayan Pink Salt Grass-Fed Ghee, Clarified Butter, Keto Pasture Raised, Non-GMO, Lactose and Casein Free, Certified Paleo (9 Ounces)
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(10,062) 4th & Heart Himalayan Pink Salt Grass-Fed Ghee, Clarified Butter, Keto Pasture Raised, Non-GMO, Lactose and Casein Free, Certified Paleo (9 Ounces) $9.49 View details
For powdered sugar:
Prime Wholesome Fair Trade Organic Powdered Sugar, Naturally Flavored Real Sugar, Non GMO & Gluten Free, 50 Pound (Pack of 1)
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(37) Wholesome Fair Trade Organic Powdered Sugar, Naturally Flavored Real Sugar, Non GMO & Gluten Free, 50 Pound (Pack of 1) $106.95 View details Prime best seller Lakanto Powdered Monk Fruit Sweetener with Erythritol - Powdered Sugar Substitute, Zero Calorie, Keto Diet Friendly, Zero Net Carbs, Baking, Extract, Sugar Replacement (Powdered - 1 lb)
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(118,724) Lakanto Powdered Monk Fruit Sweetener with Erythritol - Powdered Sugar Substitute, Zero Calorie, Keto Diet Friendly, Zero Net Carbs, Baking, Extract, Sugar Replacement (Powdered - 1 lb) $11.90 View details Prime Swerve Sweetener Powder, Confectioners, 12 oz
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(39,317) Swerve Sweetener Powder, Confectioners, 12 oz $6.98 View details

Instructions

Step 1

Proper Mixing for Success

To achieve the perfect shortcrust pastry, it is crucial to mix the ingredients correctly. If the dough is overmixed or the wrong tools are used, you may end up with a tough texture instead of a light, crumbly result.

The key is to isolate the proteins to prevent gluten from developing. Remember, this happens when water from the butter and egg interacts with the flour.

Step 2

Chilling the Dough

After mixing, chilling the dough is an essential step. Allow the dough to rest in the refrigerator for several hours to ensure that the flour fully hydrates and the fat can solidify.

Tip: If you intend to freeze the dough, do so immediately. This prevents water from freezing in a way that would hinder proper hydration.

Step 3

Working Temperature for Flexibility

When ready to use the chilled dough, it should be elastic and soft but not overly so. Before rolling, gently work the dough with a rolling pin or knead it slightly to make it pliable.

Servings

Now that you've perfected your pastry, how about some serving suggestions? Try filling your flaky crust with rich chocolate ganache for a decadent dessert that will charm your guests. 🍫 Or go savory, filling it with a homemade quiche mixture packed with seasonal veggies and cheese for a delightful brunch treat. 🥗

Don't forget to sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for a touch of elegance when serving dessert; it adds a sweet finish and looks oh-so-pretty! 🎉✨ Serve it alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for a truly indulgent treat! 🍓🍦

Equipment

Mixing Bowl

A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining your ingredients thoroughly. Choose one that’s large enough to avoid spills as you mix!

We recommend:
Prime YIHONG 7 Piece Mixing Bowls with Lids for Kitchen, Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set Ideal for Baking, Prepping, Cooking and Serving Food, Nesting Metal Mixing Bowls for Space Saving Storage
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(8,743) REGILLER Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Set of 5), Non Slip Colorful Silicone Bottom Nesting Storage Bowls, Polished Mirror Finish For Healthy Meal Mixing and Prepping 1.5-2 - 2.5-3.5 - 7QT (Colorful) $26.99 View details
Rolling Pin

A good rolling pin will help you roll out the dough evenly. Opt for a lightweight option that fits comfortably in your hands.

We recommend:
Prime best seller Farberware Classic Wood Rolling Pin, 17.75-Inch, Natural
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(8,146) Fox Run Polished Marble Rolling Pin with Wooden Cradle, 10-Inch Barrel, White $20.88 View details Prime French Rolling Pin (17 Inches) –WoodenRoll Pin for Fondant, Pie Crust, Cookie, Pastry, Dough –Tapered Design & Smooth Construction - Essential Kitchen Utensil
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(11,010) French Rolling Pin (17 Inches) –WoodenRoll Pin for Fondant, Pie Crust, Cookie, Pastry, Dough –Tapered Design & Smooth Construction - Essential Kitchen Utensil $9.99 View details
Parchment Paper

This is a game-changer for easy clean-up and preventing sticking. Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper before baking.

We recommend:
Prime SMARTAKE 200 Pcs Parchment Paper Baking Sheets, 12x16 Inches Non-Stick Precut Baking Parchment, for Baking Grilling Air Fryer Steaming Bread Cup Cake Cookie and More (Unbleached)
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(13,843) SMARTAKE 200 Pcs Parchment Paper Baking Sheets, 12x16 Inches Non-Stick Precut Baking Parchment, for Baking Grilling Air Fryer Steaming Bread Cup Cake Cookie and More (Unbleached) $16.99 $20.99 View details Prime katbite 200Pcs 9x13 inch Heavy Duty Parchment Paper Sheets, Precut Parchment Paper for Quarter Sheet Pans Liners, Baking Cookies, Bread, Meat, Pizza, Toaster Oven (9"x13")
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Flour Sifter

Sifting your flour can help prevent lumps and ensures a light texture for your pastry. Consider investing in a fine-mesh sifter.

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: To make this pastry gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to add a binding agent like xanthan gum to help with texture! 🌾❌

Vegan Variation: For a vegan pastry, replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Use a flax egg as a binding element—just mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens! 🥥✨

Faq

  • What causes my pastry to be tough?

    Overmixing the dough can activate gluten, resulting in a tough texture. Mix just until combined!

  • How can I tell when my dough is properly chilled?

    The dough should feel firm and hold its shape when pressed. If it’s still sticky or soft, give it more time in the fridge.

  • Can I use a food processor to make pastry?

    Yes, a food processor can make the mixing process faster and more efficient. Just be careful not to over-process!

  • How thick should I roll out my pastry?

    A good rule of thumb is to aim for about 1/8 inch thickness for optimal flakiness.

  • What’s the best way to store leftover pastry?

    Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to three months!

  • Can I use dairy-free milk in the dough?

    Absolutely! Almond milk or oat milk can be a great substitute for regular milk without compromising texture.

Nutrition facts

Tips for Perfect Shortcrust Pastry Techniques
Recipe Yield:12 cookies
Calories:Approximately 80 to 120 calories per cookie, depending on specific ingredients used.
Calories (Min - Max):80 - 120
Total Fat:5g
Saturated Fat:3g
Protein:1g
Total Carbohydrate:10g
Total Sugars:2g