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:
- 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.
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!