Soft Pastry Recipe – Buttery, Flaky, and Easy to Make

Want to achieve the perfect soft and flaky pastry every time? This Soft Pastry Recipe is ideal for both sweet and savory dishes! With its buttery texture, melt-in-your-mouth softness, and easy-to-follow steps, this dough is perfect for pies, tarts, turnovers, and more.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe ensures light, airy, and perfectly golden pastry with minimal effort. Plus, it’s versatile and can be customized for any filling or occasion!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Soft & Flaky – Delivers a light, airy texture every time.
• Easy to Make – No complicated techniques required.
• Versatile – Use it for sweet desserts or savory dishes.
• Rich, Buttery Flavor – A perfect balance of tenderness and taste.

Ingredients

For the Soft Pastry Dough:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar (for sweet pastry, optional)
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice (for extra tenderness)

Optional Egg Wash:

• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon milk or water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt (and sugar if making sweet pastry).
• Add cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fingertips to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Gradually add cold water and vinegar, mixing until the dough just comes together.
• Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

2. Roll & Shape the Pastry

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking immediately.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to 1/8-inch thickness.
• Use for pies, tarts, turnovers, or any pastry-based recipe.

3. Bake to Perfection

• If making a crust, prick with a fork to prevent puffing.
• (Optional) Brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden and crisp.

Tips for the Best Soft Pastry

• Use cold butter – This helps create the signature flaky texture.
• Don’t overmix – Overworking the dough can make it tough.
• Chill before rolling – Ensures better handling and a tender crust.
• Try different flavors – Add vanilla, cinnamon, or cheese for variety.

Serving Ideas

• Sweet Pastry: Use for fruit pies, custard tarts, or cream-filled pastries.
• Savory Pastry: Perfect for quiches, hand pies, or pot pies.

Final Thoughts

This Soft Pastry Recipe is the ultimate foundation for countless delicious dishes! Whether you're making a sweet dessert or a savory treat, this buttery, tender dough is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy flaky, melt-in-your-mouth perfection! 🥐✨