Brandy-Infused Puff Pastry

Ingredients

• 1 lb all-purpose flour
• 2 oz unsalted butter
• Warm water, as needed
• Salt
• 1 tsp brandy
• 1/2 lb unsalted butter (for lamination)

Method

1. 1 Mix flour, 2 oz butter, warm water, salt, and brandy. Knead for 30 minutes until smooth.
2. 2 Form dough into a rectangle, wrap in cloth, and let rest.
3. 3 Chill 1/2 lb butter until firm, then pound and roll it into a flat cake.
4. 4 Roll dough into a sheet large enough to wrap the butter cake completely.
5. 5 Place butter in center, fold dough over it, sealing edges tightly.
6. 6 Roll into a long strip, fold into thirds (letter fold). Repeat 6 times, resting between folds.
7. 7 Roll final sheet to 1/3 inch thickness, cut into shapes, and chill for 20-30 minutes.
8. 8 Bake in a very hot oven (450°F) until golden and puffed.