Mary Berry Shortcrust Pastry Recipe

Dive into the world of baking with Mary Berry's iconic Shortcrust Pastry Recipe, a versatile and essential foundation for both sweet and savory dishes. This recipe demonstrates the simplicity and elegance of traditional British baking, bringing a touch of Mary Berry's kitchen magic into your own home.

Mary Berry Shortcrust Pastry Recipe Overview

Crafted with just four key ingredients, Mary Berry's Shortcrust Pastry recipe is a testament to the power of simplicity in baking. The use of cold unsalted butter, a hint of salt, and just enough cold water to bring the dough together, results in a pastry that's flaky and tender, perfect for a myriad of creations​​.

Ingredients for the Shortcrust Pastry

• Plain Flour: 225g, ensuring a sturdy yet tender pastry base.
• Cold Unsalted Butter: 150g, cubed for easy incorporation.
• Icing Sugar: 25g, adding a subtle sweetness.
• Large Egg: 1, beaten, to bind the dough together.
• Cold Water: 2 tablespoons, to achieve the perfect dough consistency​​.

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by blending the flour and cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. This step is crucial for achieving the pastry's characteristic flaky texture.
2. The icing sugar is then mixed in, followed by the beaten egg and cold water, stirred until the dough just comes together.
3. Once formed into a soft ball, the dough is kneaded briefly until smooth, then chilled for at least 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to handle and roll out​​​​.

Storage and Reheating

This pastry can be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly, for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. For reheating or cooking, bake according to your chosen recipe's instructions, ensuring a golden, crisp finish​​.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this pastry provides a balanced blend of carbs and fats, making it an indulgent base for your culinary creations. While specific nutritional values can vary based on the fillings and specific recipe variations, the primary ingredients offer a good source of energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this pastry vegan? Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a suitable egg replacement.
• Is it possible to make a gluten-free version? Absolutely, by using a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
• How do I prevent the pastry from shrinking during baking? Ensure to chill the dough thoroughly before rolling and baking, and avoid overworking the dough.

Embrace the joy of baking with Mary Berry's Shortcrust Pastry recipe, a fundamental skill for aspiring bakers and a versatile base for countless delicious dishes. Whether you're crafting a savory quiche or a sweet tart, this pastry promises to elevate your baking repertoire with its simplicity and exquisite texture.