Are you looking for a versatile and delicious addition to your meal repertoire? Look no further than the humble pastry shell! Whether you’re serving up a savory main course or a sweet dessert, these flaky, buttery treats are the perfect base. And with so many variations to choose from, you’ll never get bored.
From classic butter and puff pastry shells to more innovative options like gluten-free, vegan, and whole wheat, there’s something for everyone in this list of 20 delicious pastry shell recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned pro in the kitchen or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative and try new things.
Classic Butter Pastry Shell
This timeless recipe yields a flaky and buttery pastry shell perfect for savory or sweet fillings. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be creating delicious homemade pastries in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs with some larger pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
3. Gradually pour in cold water while gently stirring the mixture with a fork until it forms a shaggy dough.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until it comes together in a cohesive mass.
5. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness (about 1/8 inch) and use as needed for pies, tarts, or other pastry applications.
Cooking Time:
– None required; this recipe is for raw pastry shell only.
Flaky Puff Pastry Shell
Create a delicate and flaky puff pastry shell perfect for savory or sweet fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some larger pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
3. Gradually add the ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Use the dough as desired for your pastry shell, such as baking or freezing.
Cooking Time:
– Baking: 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown.
– Freezing: Wrap tightly and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Gluten-Free Pastry Shell
A flaky and buttery pastry shell that’s perfect for filling with your favorite sweet or savory ingredients, this gluten-free recipe is a game-changer. With just a few simple ingredients and some gentle handling, you’ll be enjoying a delicious homemade pastry in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1 tablespoon xanthan gum (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free flour and salt.
2. Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until smooth.
5. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness (about 1/8 inch) and use as needed.
Cooking Time: None, as this pastry shell is meant to be baked or used in a savory dish.
Sweet Shortcrust Pastry Shell
Start your baking journey with this classic sweet shortcrust pastry shell recipe, perfect for filling with sweet treats like frangipane or ganache.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually pour in the beaten egg, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll out to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Transfer the rolled-out dough to the prepared baking sheet and trim to shape as desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Savoury Herb Pastry Shell
Elevate your next meal with this flaky and flavorful pastry shell, perfect for savory fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and butter. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese, rosemary leaves, salt, and pepper.
4. Gradually add cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll out to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Transfer the pastry shell to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Brush the edges with a little water and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Wheat Pastry Shell
Elevate your desserts with this simple yet impressive whole wheat pastry shell recipe. Perfect for tarts, quiches, and savory dishes alike, this crust is a great way to add some wholesome goodness to your baking.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon ice-cold water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt.
2. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to desired thickness.
6. Use as desired or bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Pastry Shell
Create a flaky and buttery vegan pastry shell perfect for your favorite fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup vegan butter (such as Earth Balance), chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold vegan butter and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice-cold water and apple cider vinegar, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time:
– Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Roll out the chilled pastry dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Chocolate Pastry Shell
Elevate your desserts with these decadent chocolate pastry shells, perfect for filling with whipped cream, fruit, or your favorite sweet treats. With a flaky crust and deep chocolate flavor, they’re sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and cocoa powder.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, stirring until dough forms.
5. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll out to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., circles or squares).
7. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Cheddar Cheese Pastry Shell
Elevate your appetizers or snacks with this flaky and flavorful Cheddar Cheese Pastry Shell, perfect for serving with soups, salads, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and cold butter. Use a pastry blender or fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add grated cheddar cheese and salt; mix well.
4. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until dough forms a ball.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Place dough into a 9-inch (23 cm) tart pan with a removable bottom.
7. Trim edges and press dough into corners of the pan.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Almond Flour Pastry Shell
A delicate and flaky pastry shell made with almond flour, perfect for savory or sweet fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, chilled
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine almond flour and salt.
3. Add chilled coconut oil and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Gradually add ice-cold water while mixing until a smooth dough forms.
5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 1-2 minutes.
6. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
7. Place the pastry shell on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Spiced Pumpkin Pastry Shell
Transform your fall gatherings with this aromatic Spiced Pumpkin Pastry Shell, perfect for serving as a base for sweet or savory fillings. This recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the comforting flavor of pumpkin puree.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, butter, confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until a dough forms.
3. Gradually add pumpkin puree, mixing until a smooth dough is achieved.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or circles).
6. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until pastry shells are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Pastry Shell
Elevate your pastry game with this simple yet impressive Cinnamon Sugar Pastry Shell recipe! Perfect for filling with sweet or savory ingredients, this flaky and aromatic shell is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon.
4. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to create a shell shape.
6. Place the shell on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Zest Pastry Shell
Brighten up your baked goods with the citrusy flavor of lemon zest! This simple pastry shell recipe is perfect for tarts, quiches, or savory dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 large egg yolk
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into a crumbly mixture.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolk and lemon juice until smooth. Add the grated lemon zest.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Place onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Pastry Shell
Elevate your appetizers or snacks with this savory pastry shell infused with the flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy gathering, these shells are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil. Brush the mixture evenly onto the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the garlic layer.
5. Roll the pastry into a tight log, starting from one of the long sides. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
6. Place the shells on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each shell.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion Pastry Shell
Transform your pastry game with this sweet and savory shell, perfect as a base for appetizers or main courses. The caramelized onions add a depth of flavor that will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Place the pastry sheet into a tart pan or mini muffin tin.
5. Brush the edges with water and press the pastry into the corners.
6. Fill the shell with the caramelized onions, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Maple Pecan Pastry Shell
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and nutty pastry shell, perfect for filling with whipped cream, fruit, or chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in maple syrup and pecans.
5. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently 2-3 times until it comes together.
6. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Rosemary Olive Oil Pastry Shell
Elevate your savory dishes with this fragrant and flavorful pastry shell infused with the aromas of rosemary and olive oil. Perfect for serving as a side or using as a base for various fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add olive oil and rosemary leaves; mix until dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and pliable.
5. Roll out dough to desired thickness (about 1/8 inch).
6. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Pastry Shell
Elevate your appetizers or snacks with this flavorful and flaky pastry shell infused with the richness of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for wrapping around cheese, spinach, or other fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Gradually add ice-cold water (about 1 tablespoon at a time) until the dough comes together in a ball.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes or use a pastry cutter to create uniform shells.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Sweet Potato Pastry Shell
Elevate your savory dishes with this sweet potato pastry shell, perfect for stuffing with roasted vegetables or lean meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, cold butter, salt, and baking powder. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
5. Place shells on prepared baking sheet and brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Berry-Infused Pastry Shell
This sweet and flaky pastry shell is infused with the natural sweetness of berries, making it perfect for desserts like tarts or pies. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this delicious pastry to elevate your baked goods.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup mixed berry jam or preserves (such as strawberry-raspberry)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon ice-cold water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and cold butter. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add sugar, mixed berry jam, beaten egg, and ice-cold water. Mix until dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the perfect pastry shell recipe for any occasion with these 20 delicious options. From classic butter to gluten-free and vegan alternatives, there’s something for everyone. Try sweet shortcrust shells filled with caramelized onions or sweet potatoes, or savory options like garlic parmesan and rosemary olive oil. For a twist, use almond flour, whole wheat, or sun-dried tomatoes in your pastry shell recipe. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just want to impress, these recipes are sure to satisfy any sweet or savory craving.
