:: Sweet Shortcrust Pastry Recipe ::

Donna's Sweet Shortcrust Pastry

:: Megann’s Kitchen ::

:: process until mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs ::

Pastry is one of those things that appears daunting to make because when it goes wrong, it can go very wrong, but to be honest there is nothing better than a home-made shortcrust melting in your mouth. The secret to knowing your pastry is simple. Don’t overwork your pastry, this will cause it to become too crumbly, or “short” & have cool, quick hands.

This is a Donna Hay Classic inspired pastry, however there are many variations of Sweet Shortcrust Pastry out there. I have found this recipe really simple, very consistent & easy to follow.

2 cups plain (all-purpose) flour
3 tbsp caster (superfine) sugar
150g cold butter, chopped
2-3 tbsp iced water

Process the flour, sugar and butter in a food processor until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. While the motor is running, add enough iced water to form a smooth dough and process until just combined and comes together into a ball in the food processor. Knead the dough lightly, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 45 minutes.

:: sweet shortcrust pastry & apple pie ::

Pastry Notes
::  This pastry can be made a day in advance & kept in cling wrap in the fridge. Simply take it out of the fridge & let it sit for 30 mins, until just malleable.

:: I always roll my pastry onto a large peice of cling wrap. This helps a great deal when transfering to your desired baking tin.

:: If blind baking, chill for 10 mins in the freezer (or 20 mins in the fridge) in your desired pastry tin prior to baking in the oven. Peel off your cling wrap & place baking paper to cover the pastry & baking weights on top. Bake for 10 mins, remove baking paper & weights then put back into the oven for a further 5 mins. The extra chilling process is essential to prevent pastry shrinkage in baking.

Other Pastry Recipes

::  Follow this link to see other pastry recipes in Megann's Kitchen.

Source: Discover DonnaHay Modern Classics Book 2 at a discount price, delivered free (RRP AU $39.95)