Flaky Homemade Pastry

1In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar (1 teaspoon), and salt (½ teaspoon) together.

2Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.

3Slowly drizzle in the ice-cold water (½ cup) while stirring the mixture with a fork until the dough starts to come together.

4Gently knead the dough on a floured surface until it forms a smooth ball, being careful not to overwork it.

5Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

6After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before rolling it out on a floured surface.

7Roll out the pastry dough to the desired thickness and use it for your favorite sweet or savory recipes.

8Bake according to the specific recipe you are using the pastry for, whether it's for pies, tarts, turnovers, or any other pastry dish.