Delicate Pâte Sablée: the Perfect Sweet Pastry Base

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons cold water (as needed)

Instructions

1. 1

   In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.

2. 2

   Add cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or fork to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. 3

   Create a well in the center, add the egg yolk, and gently mix together.

4. 4

   Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together. Avoid overworking.

5. 5

   Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

6. 6

   Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while dough is chilling.

7. 7

   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit your tart pan.

8. 8

   Carefully transfer the rolled dough to the pan, pressing into the edges. Trim any excess.

9. 9

   Line dough with parchment and fill with baking beans. Bake for 15-20 minutes until light golden.

10. 10

    Remove beans, cool, and fill with your desired filling.