Delicious Homemade Puff Pastry Shells

These homemade puff pastry shells are perfect for filling with sweet or savory ingredients. The flaky and buttery pastry makes for an impressive presentation and delightful taste. Fill them with creamy chicken and mushroom or fresh fruit and whipped cream for a delicious treat. With this recipe, you will learn the techniques to create light and airy puff pastry shells that will impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup ice water

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture.
3. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add the ice water to the flour mixture, stirring until the dough comes together.
5. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times until smooth.
6. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
7. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into 8 equal portions.
9. Roll out each portion into a circle or oval shape, about 1/8 inch thick.
10. Place the rolled dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
11. Using a sharp knife, lightly score each dough round to create a decorative border, leaving a 1/4-inch border uncut.
12. Bake the pastry shells for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
13. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before filling.

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