Homemade Puff Pastry

Ingredients (5)

• plain flour1.5 cup
• butter3 tbsp
• salt0.5 tsp
• cold water
• butter0.75 cup

Method

1. 1

   In a large bowl, combine the plain flour and salt.

2. 2

   Add the 3 tablespoons of softened butter and rub it into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs.

3. 3

   Gradually add the cold water and knead into a smooth, soft dough.

4. 4

   Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

5. 5

   Roll the chilled dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface.

6. 6

   Spread a thin, even layer of the softened butter over two-thirds of the dough.

7. 7

   Fold the unbuttered third over the centre, then fold the remaining buttered third over it like a letter.

8. 8

   Wrap the dough and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes.

9. 9

   Roll the dough out into a rectangle again.

10. 10

    Repeat the folding process.

11. 11

    Chill for another 20–30 minutes.

12. 12

    Repeat the rolling, buttering and folding process 4–6 times, chilling between each fold.

13. 13

    After the final fold, refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour before use.

14. 14

    Roll the pastry to about 3–4 mm thickness.

15. 15

    Cut into the desired shapes for puffs, pies or pastries.

16. 16

    Fill with your preferred filling.

17. 17

    Seal the edges by pressing gently with a fork.

18. 18

    Brush with milk or beaten egg (optional) for a golden finish.

19. 19

    Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for 20–25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.