Shortcrust Pastry Problems and Solutions
Mastering the art and craft of making pastry is an essential skill for all aspiring bakers. Along the way, there are various common problems you will run into. Here are our solutions and tips to avoid soggy bottoms and other pastry problems!
Problem: Your Pastry Has a Soggy Bottom
- This can occur if your filling contains too much liquid. Your pie dish may also be too thick and not conduct the heat to the pastry efficiently.
- The oven may not be hot enough, or the pie may have been placed too high in the oven and cooked too quickly. Make sure the oven is at the right temperature and bake the pie on a preheated baking tray.
- The filling needs to be fridge-temperature cold or it will begin to steam the pastry and make it go soggy before you bake it.
Problem: Your Pastry Shrinks When Cooked
- As the pastry is tense after being rolled out, it needs to relax in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Putting the dough in the freezer, to take it from relaxed to super chilled, can prevent shrinkage.
- Be gentle when rolling out and don’t overstretch the pastry.
Problem: Your Pastry is Crumbly
- Diagnosing how to fix your crumbly pastry is much more difficult than preventing crumbly pastry.
- Adding too much fat and overmixing or adding too little liquid can make the pastry crumbly.
- It is vital to weigh ingredients carefully and handle the dough gently.
Problem: Your Cooked Pastry is Tough
Why is your cooked pastry tough?
- This occurs when too little fat and too much liquid are added.
- Be careful not to overhandle the dough and to make sure the oven is hot.
Shortcrust Pastry FAQs
For how long can shortcrust pastry be stored in the fridge?
Shortcrust pastry can be kept in the fridge. The maximum amount of time you should store it in the fridge will depend on your formula. If you have used eggs, then store for no more than 48 hours. If your pastry doesn’t include egg, then you can store the pastry for a couple more days but the longer it is stored the greater the chance that your pastry will turn out tough.
Can I freeze shortcrust pastry
Yes you can freeze shortcrust pastry. When doing so, remember to ensure you’ve already shaped the dough into the correct shape/form beforehand to make it easier to work with when you defrost it.
