Pastries
These flaky pastry squares are a delightful treat, perfect for festive gatherings or family dinners. Crispy and tender, they pair beautifully with chicken or turkey broth gravy. Their simple ingredients and easy preparation make them ideal for both novice and experienced bakers seeking comforting homemade comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, salt, soda, and baking powder together in a bowl.
- Cut in the butter and lard until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the sour cream and mix just until the dough comes together.
- Work the dough as little as possible to keep it tender.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness slightly thicker than pie crust.
- Cut the dough into 1/2-inch squares with a pie wheel or sharp knife.
- Place the squares on a cookie sheet slightly thicker than pie crust.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 17 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve the pastries in a dish with thin chicken or turkey broth gravy.
Tips & Substitutions
For flaky pastries, ensure your butter and lard are very cold before cutting them into the flour mixture. If you don't have lard, you can substitute it with additional butter. To add flavor, consider mixing in herbs or spices to the dough. Remember to handle the dough as little as possible to keep it tender, similar to techniques used in American recipes such as Jeff Davis Pie.
Serving Suggestions
These pastries are delicious served warm alongside thin chicken or turkey broth gravy. They also pair nicely with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a sweet touch, consider serving them with a drizzle of honey or a fruit compote to contrast the savory flavors, similar to how one might enjoy Pineapple Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to a month. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pastries contains roughly 98 calories, with 4g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1284mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use only butter instead of the butter and lard mix?
Yes, you can use only butter, but the texture may be slightly different. Lard contributes to a flakier texture, while butter provides flavor. If you choose to use all butter, ensure it’s very cold and handle the dough minimally for the best results.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Be cautious not to add too much flour, as this can make the pastries tough. Remember to keep working the dough to a minimum.
Can these pastries be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before rolling it out and baking. Alternatively, you can pre-bake the pastries and store them, reheating them before serving for a quick and easy meal option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).