Sweet Shortcrust Pastry
Makes approximately 385g (13oz) of pastry
Though it may at first seem a little sticky, rich shortcrust pastry is a little easier to handle than basic pastry. But as with any pastry recipe, resting is the key to success as once rested in the refrigerator, the pastry will keep its shape during cooking.
Ingredients
- 225g plain flour
- 110g butter, cubed (or an equal mix of butter and lard)
- 25g icing sugar
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- splash of milk to bind
Method
Rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs, working as quickly as possible to prevent the dough becoming warm.
Add the egg to the mixture and using a cold knife stir until the dough binds together, add milk, a teaspoon at a time, if the mixture is too dry.
Wrap the dough in clingfilm and chill for a minimum of 15 minutes or up to 30 minutes to allow the pastry to rest. You can also roll the pastry and then rest it in the fridge. It is up to you.
The dough can also be made in a food processor by mixing the flour and butter in the bowl of the processor, mixing carefully on the pulse setting. When the mixture resembles breadcrumbs, add the egg (then milk, if required) slowly, through the funnel until the dough comes together in a ball.
Wrap in clingfilm and chill as above.
Tip
To make the best pastry follow these tips and you’ll be making the lightest crisp, melt-in-the-mouth pastry ever.
If you’d like some pointers on just how much pastry to make take a look at the pastry calculator.
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