10 Minute Homemade Puff Pastry + Recipes

Making homemade puff pastry may seem like a daunting task, but with this 10 Minute Homemade Puff Pastry recipe, it's actually quite simple. Using just a few ingredients and a food processor, you can have flaky and buttery puff pastry ready in no time. 

The key to success is using very cold butter and water, and not overprocessing the dough. Once you've made the pastry, the possibilities for fillings and toppings are endless, from savory ham and cheese roll-ups to sweet apple cinnamon turnovers. With a little creativity and this easy-to-follow recipe, you'll be impressing your family and friends with delicious homemade puff pastry creations in no time.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cups very cold butter (salted)
• 1/2 cup very cold water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt**
• 2 cups flour
• **If using salted butter then add 1/4 teaspoon salt if using unsalted butter then add 3/4 teaspoon salt.

Instructions:

1. Using a food processor fitted with a metal blade, add flour and salt to the bowl.
2. Add 3/4 cup (170 grams) cold butter cut into cubes and pulse until butter is absorbed (about 10 to 12 one-second pulses).
3. Add the remaining cold butter (cubed) and pulse two or three times (no more) to combine.
4. Add the cold water and pulse four or five times just until the dough comes together to form a ball (it's important not to overprocess).
5. On a lightly floured surface, place the dough and knead lightly approximately 10 times.
6. With a lightly floured rolling pin (lightly flour the dough so it doesn't stick), roll into a rectangle approximately 12 x 18 inches (30 x 45 centimeters).
7. Fold the dough in half and then half again and one last time, wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 1 - 2 hours (or overnight).
8. Once chilled, remove the dough from the fridge and use it in your favorite puff pastry recipe.

Recipe Ideas:

• Ham & Cheese Roll Ups: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Roll the dough into a rectangle (approximately 10 x 14 inches / 25 x 35 cm). Cover the dough with thin slices of cooked ham and shredded cheese. Roll up lengthwise as tight as possible and brush the edges with egg wash to seal. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes. Unwrap and slice with a sharp knife into 1/4-inch slices. Place on a prepared cookie sheet, brush with the egg wash and sprinkle with more cheese. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes or until golden. Serve immediately.

• Pear, Walnut & Chocolate Crescents: Roll the remaining dough into a large circle, and make 8-10 triangles. Place 1-2 slices of pear on the large part of the triangle, top with some chopped walnuts and chocolate chips. Roll up from the large part, place on a prepared cookie sheet, brush with egg wash, sprinkle with a little sugar, and bake for approximately 15 minutes or until golden. Let cool then dust with powdered sugar.

• Double Cheese Twists: In a small bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, and set aside. Roll out the dough into a 1/8" thick oval, sprinkle shredded cheese on the top half of the oval, bring up the bottom half to cover the top, brush with the egg wash, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese mixture. Slice into 1/2-inch strips, twist, and place on parchment paper-lined cookie sheets. Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until golden. Eat warm.

• Apple Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, toss together sliced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle or square 1/8" thick, then cut into 6-8 squares. Top each square with 2-3 apple slices, and brush the edges of the square with egg mixture. Fold over and seal. Brush the tops of the pastry with the egg wash, sprinkle with sugar, and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until golden. Drizzle with a little frosting if desired.

Tips:

• Use very cold butter and water to ensure a flaky and buttery pastry.
• Don't overprocess the dough, or it will become tough and chewy.
• You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer until you're ready to use it.
• Be creative with your fillings and toppings to make unique and delicious puff pastry creations.

Enjoy your homemade puff pastry and the delicious recipes you can make with it!