Are you a fan of tender, flaky pastries and breads? Do you want to elevate your baking game with a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes? Look no further than pastry flour! Pastry flour is made from a type of wheat that has a lower protein content than all-purpose flour, making it perfect for creating delicate, tender baked goods. With its light and airy texture, pastry flour is a game-changer for anyone who loves baking.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of pastry flour. From flaky buttermilk biscuits to decadent chocolate éclairs, these recipes are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes will guide you every step of the way.
Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits with Pastry Flour
These tender and flaky biscuits are a perfect accompaniment to your favorite meals, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Made with the help of buttermilk and pastry flour, these biscuits are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pastry flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in the buttermilk and stir the mixture with a fork until it forms a shaggy dough.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it 2-3 times until it comes together.
6. Roll the dough out to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each biscuit.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic Homemade Pie Crust
A flaky and buttery pie crust is the foundation of a great homemade pie. This classic recipe yields a tender and delicious crust that’s perfect for sweet or savory fillings.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
2. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some larger pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
3. Sprinkle the ice-cold water over the mixture, then gently stir with a fork until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.
Cooking Time: None (this recipe is for homemade pie crust only, not baked)
Light and Airy Scones
Flaky, tender, and utterly delightful, these scones are perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon snack. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying the fruits of your labor in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream or buttermilk
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream and egg until smooth.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Pat dough gently onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tender Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are a classic treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of tender and delicious cookies that will impress anyone.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Golden Brown Croissants
Golden Brown Croissants Recipe
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these flaky, buttery, and utterly delicious golden brown croissants. Perfect for a special occasion or a lazy Sunday morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and softened butter to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Cut into triangles and roll each triangle into a croissant shape, curving the ends towards each other.
6. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each croissant.
7. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Perfectly Flaky Danish Pastries
Elevate your pastry game with this classic recipe that yields tender, buttery, and oh-so-flaky Danish pastries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Optional fillings: jam, fruit preserves, or creamy fillings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work the butter into the dough until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually pour in water while gently stirring the mixture until it forms a shaggy dough.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead 2-3 times, just until it comes together.
6. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Cut into desired shapes.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies
Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe
Looking for a classic sugar cookie recipe that yields soft, chewy, and delicious treats? This simple recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. If desired, add colored sprinkles or chopped nuts to the dough.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Homemade Puff Pastry Dough
Elevate your baking game with this simple recipe for homemade puff pastry dough. With just a few ingredients and some gentle rolling, you’ll be rewarded with flaky, buttery layers that will elevate any dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently roll out to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Fold the dough in half lengthwise, then rotate 90 degrees and fold again. Repeat this process three more times.
6. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 days.
Cooking Time: None needed! Use your homemade puff pastry dough to make a variety of delicious treats, such as savory tarts, sweet pastries, or buttery croissants.
Delicate Cream Puffs
Treat your senses with these airy, tender cream puffs filled with a light and creamy custard. Perfect for special occasions or as a delightful surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, milk, and salt until smooth.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and heavy cream. Whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Pipe onto prepared baking sheet in desired shapes.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before filling with whipped cream mixture (heavy cream, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt).
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rich and Buttery Tart Shells
Rich and Buttery Tart Shells Recipe
Elevate your tart game with these tender, flaky, and oh-so-buttery shells that are perfect for sweet or savory fillings. This recipe yields a batch of 12-15 shells, ideal for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup (50g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon ice-cold water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add the ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until smooth.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a tart pan.
7. Place shells on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5cm) space between each shell.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Yield: 12-15 tart shells
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Fluffy Pancakes with Pastry Flour
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy pancakes made with the tenderizing power of pastry flour!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups pastry flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk, lukewarm
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to allow the flour to absorb the liquid.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes for 6-8 pancakes
Decadent Chocolate Éclairs
Decadent Chocolate Éclairs Recipe
Experience the ultimate French pastry delight with these rich and creamy éclairs smothered in velvety chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add milk, melted butter, and granulated sugar; whisk until smooth.
3. Beat in egg whites until stiff peaks form. Pour the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.
4. Pipe 4-inch (10cm) long éclairs onto the prepared baking sheet. Tap gently to remove air bubbles.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow éclairs to cool completely. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl; drizzle over cooled éclairs.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crumbly Coffee Cake
Start your day off right with this delicious crumbly coffee cake, perfect for breakfast or a mid-morning snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup crumb topping (see below)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Crumb Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract; stir until combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle crumb topping evenly over the top of the coffee cake.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Golden Apple Turnovers
Golden Apple Turnovers: Sweet and Flaky Pastry Filled with Caramelized Apples
These golden pastries are filled with tender apples cooked in butter and sugar, perfect for a cozy dessert or snack. This easy-to-make recipe yields 8-10 turnovers that are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook apples and butter over medium heat until caramelized.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to desired thickness.
4. Spoon cooked apple mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Fold other half of pastry over apples and press edges together with a fork.
6. Place turnovers on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Light Lemon Bars
Light Lemon Bars: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Treat
These tangy and sweet bars are perfect for springtime or anytime you need a bright and citrusy treat. With a shortbread crust and a lemon curd filling, these bars are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Bake crust for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. Meanwhile, prepare lemon curd by whisking together granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a large bowl.
5. Pour lemon curd over baked crust and smooth top.
6. Return to oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Allow bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Flaky Cheese Straws
Elevate your snack game with these buttery, flaky cheese straws that are perfect for parties or a quick afternoon pick-me-up. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying crispy, cheesy goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (or your favorite variety)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
3. Stir in grated cheese until well combined.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (strips, squares, or strips).
5. Place straws on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each piece.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Cinnamon Rolls
Start your day with a sweet treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the comfort of soft, fluffy dough. These Sweet Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for breakfast or brunch and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add melted butter, warm water, and beaten egg; mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
5. Sprinkle cinnamon evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around edges.
6. Roll up the dough tightly; cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each roll.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Tender Peach Cobbler
Tender Peach Cobbler Recipe
This classic peach cobbler recipe is a warm-weather favorite that’s sure to please. Sweet and juicy peaches are perfectly balanced by a buttery, crumbly crust.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh or frozen peaches, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup biscuit or cobbler mix (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes, until the fruit starts to release its juice.
3. Roll out biscuit or cobbler mix to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Place the mixture on top of the peach mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the crust over the filling, pressing gently to seal. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your baking game with these 18 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of pastry flour! From flaky buttermilk biscuits and classic homemade pie crust to tender shortbread cookies and decadent chocolate éclairs, these mouthwatering treats are sure to impress. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, light and airy or rich and buttery, there’s a recipe on this list that’s perfect for you. So go ahead, get baking, and discover the magic of pastry flour!