Can biscuit cutters be used with pastry?
Pastry and biscuits are two popular baked goods that often require shaping and cutting. While biscuit cutters are primarily used for making biscuits, many bakers wonder if they can also be used with pastry. The answer is yes, biscuit cutters can be used with pastry, but there are some things to keep in mind to ensure the best results.
Understanding the differences between biscuit dough and pastry dough
Before delving into how to use biscuit cutters with pastry, it’s important to understand the differences between the two types of dough. Biscuit dough is typically made with flour, some type of fat (such as butter or shortening), and a liquid (usually milk). The dough is rolled out and cut into circles with a biscuit cutter. Pastry dough, on the other hand, is made with flour, a fat (such as butter or lard), and a small amount of liquid (such as water or vinegar). Pastry dough is rolled out and used to make pie crusts, turnovers, and other pastries.
How to use biscuit cutters with pastry dough
To use biscuit cutters with pastry dough, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, pastry dough should be rolled out thinner than biscuit dough. This will ensure that the pastry cooks evenly and doesn’t end up too thick or doughy. Second, lightly flour the biscuit cutter before cutting out the pastry. This will prevent the pastry from sticking to the cutter and allow for a clean cut. Finally, be gentle when pressing down the cutter. Pastry is more fragile than biscuit dough, so pressing too hard or for too long can cause the dough to lose its shape.
Benefits of using a biscuit cutter with pastry dough
Using a biscuit cutter with pastry dough can be a great way to ensure uniformity in the size and shape of your baked goods. This can be especially important if you are making something like turnovers or empanadas, where the filling needs to be enclosed completely by the dough. Additionally, using a biscuit cutter can save time and effort compared to cutting shapes by hand.
When to use a different tool for cutting pastry dough
While biscuit cutters can be used with pastry dough, they may not always be the best tool for the job. For example, if you are making a lattice-top pie crust, using a pastry wheel or knife may be a better option. Similarly, if you are making cut-out cookies, using cookie cutters specifically designed for that purpose will likely yield the best results. Ultimately, the tool you use will depend on the specific recipe and desired outcome.
