Soft Pastry Recipe

This Soft Pastry Recipe creates delicate, melt-in-your-mouth pastries that are perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a comforting snack. The dough is light, airy, and buttery, making it ideal for both sweet and savory fillings. Whether you prefer fruit compote, chocolate, or cheese, these pastries can be customized to suit any craving. The key to achieving the perfect texture is allowing the dough to rise properly and handling it gently to maintain its softness.

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Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk
• 1 egg (reserve the yolk for topping)
• 1 teacup vegetable oil

For the Filling (Optional Sweet Version):

• 3-4 boiled potatoes (for a savory option)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons milk
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

For the Topping:

• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon milk

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Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add vegetable oil and egg, mixing well.
3. Gradually add flour and salt, kneading until a soft dough forms.
4. Cover the dough and let it rise for 1 hour, until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling (Optional)

5. Mash boiled potatoes until smooth.
6. Stir in butter, milk, salt, and chopped parsley.

Step 3: Shape the Pastries

7. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 3 equal portions.
8. Roll each portion into a square shape using a rolling pin.
9. Spread the filling over the dough (if using) and roll it into a log shape.
10. Cut the log into individual pastry pieces.

Step 4: Bake the Pastries

11. Place the pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
12. Brush the tops with egg yolk and milk mixture.
13. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.

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Serving Suggestions & Tips

• Serve warm with powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze for extra sweetness.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

This Soft Pastry Recipe is simple yet incredibly satisfying, offering a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Would you like variations or additional customization ideas? 🥐✨

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