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Basic Short Crust Pastry

A great basic short crust pastry - that can be used for savoury or sweet pies.
Prep Time10 minutes
Resting Time30 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Dessert, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: dessert, Vegetarian
Servings: 1 pie (top & bottom crust)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 cup cold unsalted butter
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
  • 1 cup aged cheddar, grated
  • 1/2 cup ice cold water (amount will vary)

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, grate the cold butter (or cut it into small pieces).
  • Add 2 cups flour, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tbsp sugar (if using) and start to pinch together the butter into the flour using your fingertips.
  • The mixture should look like coarse bread crumbs. Add the grated cheddar cheese and mix till just combined.
  • Slowly pour 1-2 tbsp at a time of water into the flour mixture and use a butter knife or fork to mix the water in little by little till the mixture starts to form a large ball. You want to avoid using your hands because it is important to keep the mixture cool to get a flakey crust.
  • Using your hands, work quickly to bring the dough together into a large ball. Avoid over handling it so it doesn't get warm.
  • Wrap the dough in some plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.

Notes

The prepared dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight, or for a few hours on the kitchen counter before using.