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To make puff pastry dough, you need key ingredients. Each plays an important role in creating that flaky texture.

Puff Pastry Dough

Unlock the secrets to perfect puff pastry dough with these essential tips! From selecting the right ingredients to mastering the techniques for that irresistible flaky texture, this guide has everything you need. Learn how to store and freeze your dough effectively while avoiding common mistakes. Whether you're making savory dishes or sweet treats, puff pastry is versatile for any occasion. Click through to explore delicious recipes and start baking today!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1/2 cup ice water

1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra fluffiness)

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Whisk together to blend evenly.

    Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.

      In a small bowl, mix the ice water and lemon juice together. Gradually add this mixture to the flour-butter mixture, stirring with a fork until the dough begins to come together. Add more ice water if necessary, one tablespoon at a time.

        Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough a few times until it is smooth, being careful not to overwork it.

          Divide the dough into two equal halves, flatten each half into a disk, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the butter to firm up.

            Once the dough has chilled, take one disk out of the refrigerator. On a floured surface, roll it out into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.

              Fold the rectangle into thirds, like folding a letter, then wrap it again in plastic wrap and chill for another 30 minutes.

                Repeat step 6 with the second disk of dough. This folding process creates the flaky layers characteristic of puff pastry.

                  After all chilling periods, your puff pastry dough is ready to use! Roll it out to your desired thickness for any recipe requiring puff pastry, whether sweet or savory.

                    Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chilling) | Servings: Makes enough for 2 large pastries.