Perfect Soft Pastry Dough Recipe – Light, Flaky & Buttery

How to Make Soft Pastry Dough

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar (if using), and salt.

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture.
Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs with small pea-sized pieces of butter.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, beat the egg and mix it into the dough.
Add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring gently with a fork until the dough begins to come together.

Step 4: Knead & Chill the Dough

Lightly flour a clean surface and gently knead the dough just until it forms a ball (don’t overwork it!).
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.

Tips for the Best Soft Pastry Dough

✔ Keep ingredients cold – Cold butter and water ensure a flaky texture.
✔ Don’t overwork the dough – Over-kneading can make the pastry tough.
✔ Chill before rolling – This helps prevent the dough from shrinking when baked.
✔ Use a light touch – When rolling, use even pressure to avoid tearing.