handcrafted Crispy Pastries:

Handcrafted Crispy Pastries Recipe

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup ice water
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

Filling Options:

• Sweet Filling:
  • 1/2 cup fruit preserves (apricot, raspberry, or your favorite)
• Savory Filling:
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
  • 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon or ham

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pastry Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
   • Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
   • Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Roll Out the Dough:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a 1/8-inch thickness.
   • Using a cookie cutter or a glass, cut the dough into circles (about 3-4 inches in diameter).
3. Add the Filling:
   • Place a small spoonful of your chosen filling (sweet or savory) in the center of each dough circle.
   • Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with a fork to seal.
4. Bake the Pastries:
   • Place the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar (if making sweet pastries) or leave plain (if making savory pastries).
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and crispy.
5. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
   • Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information (per serving, based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 22g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 5g (for sweet filling)
• Protein: 3g

Enjoy your Handcrafted Crispy Pastries!