Danish Pastry

Step 1

In a large bowl, mix 2 cups flour and 1/2 tsp salt. Cut 1 cup cold butter into small cubes and toss into the flour.

Step 2

Using a pastry blender or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until pea-sized lumps remain. Add 1/2 cup ice water and stir until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and pat into a rectangle. Fold it into thirds like a letter, then rotate 90° and roll out again. Repeat this fold and roll 3 times total.

Step 4

Wrap the dough in plastic and chill for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 5

Roll the chilled dough into a 12x12-inch square. Cut into 4 equal squares, then fold each corner toward the center and press gently to seal.

Step 6

Beat 1 egg with 1 tbsp water and brush over the pastries. Sprinkle with 2 tbsp sugar. Bake until puffed and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.

Step 7

Let cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.