Hot water crust pastry

Hot water crust pastry is a easy British recipe that serves 6. 765 calories per serving. Recipe by Backyard Chef on YouTube.

Prep: 14 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 24 min

Cost: $3.15 total, $0.53 per serving

Ingredients

  • 600 grams All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
  • 150 grams Unsalted Butter (cut into cubes, room temperature)
  • 150 grams Shortening (vegetable shortening)
  • 300 milliliters Water (cold tap water)
  • 5 grams Salt (fine sea salt)

Instructions

  1. Melt Fats in Water

    Place the butter and shortening in a saucepan, add the cold water, and heat over low flame, stirring gently until the fats are completely melted and combined with the water. Do not let the mixture boil.

    Time: PT3M

  2. Mix Flour and Salt

    In a mixing bowl, combine the sifted all‑purpose flour with the salt and give it a quick stir to distribute evenly.

    Time: PT1M

  3. Incorporate Hot Water‑Fat Mixture

    Pour the hot liquid from the saucepan into the flour mixture, stirring quickly with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Knead Dough

    Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 3 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Wrap and Refrigerate

    Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm before shaping.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
765
Protein
10 g
Carbohydrates
67 g
Fat
45 g
Fiber
4 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian

Allergens: Wheat, Dairy, Soy

Last updated: April 7, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Hot water crust pastry

Recipe by Backyard Chef

A sturdy, flaky hot water crust pastry dough perfect for traditional British meat pies. This simple dough uses a quick melt of butter, shortening, and water into flour, then chills to create a firm, moldable crust.

EasyBritishServes 6

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
11m
Prep
3m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
24m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$3.15
Total cost
$0.53
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Melt fats with water without allowing the mixture to boil.
  • Combine the hot liquid with flour quickly to avoid burns and ensure proper dough formation.
  • Wrap and chill the dough thoroughly before shaping.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot liquid can splatter – use oven mitts and keep face away from the saucepan.
  • Do not let the water‑fat mixture boil; boiling can cause oil to spit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of hot water crust pastry in British cuisine?

A

Hot water crust pastry originated in the UK in the 19th century as a sturdy crust for pork pies, allowing the pies to be held and eaten by hand. Its firm, yet flaky texture made it perfect for portable, meat‑filled pies served at fairs and markets.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of hot water crust pastry in the United Kingdom?

A

In the Midlands, the crust is often used for classic pork pies, while in the North it may be enriched with a touch of beef dripping. Some coastal regions add a pinch of malted barley flour for extra chewiness.

cultural
Q

How is hot water crust pastry traditionally served in England?

A

Traditionally the pastry is baked with a seasoned pork filling, cooled, and then sliced cold. It is commonly served as a snack at picnics, pubs, and holiday gatherings, often with a dollop of mustard.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is hot water crust pastry associated with in British culture?

A

Hot water crust pies are popular at country fairs, harvest festivals, and as part of a traditional English tea or buffet. They are also a staple at game‑day gatherings and family picnics.

cultural
Q

What other British dishes pair well with hot water crust pastry?

A

Pairs beautifully with roasted meats, gravy, pickled vegetables, and a side of mushy peas. It also complements a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

cultural
Q

What makes hot water crust pastry special compared to other pastry types in British cuisine?

A

Its unique hot‑water method creates a dough that is both sturdy and pliable, allowing it to hold heavy fillings without becoming soggy. The blend of butter and shortening gives a rich flavor while keeping the crust crisp.

cultural
Q

How has hot water crust pastry evolved over time in the UK?

A

Originally made with lard and water, modern recipes often use butter and vegetable shortening for a cleaner flavor and easier handling. Home cooks now add a pinch of sugar or herbs for subtle variations.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making hot water crust pastry?

A

Common errors include letting the water‑fat mixture boil, which can cause oil splatter, and not chilling the dough long enough, resulting in a crumbly crust. Also, over‑kneading can make the pastry tough.

technical
Q

Why does this hot water crust pastry recipe use a 1:1 ratio of water to total fat instead of more water?

A

The 1:1 ratio ensures the fats fully dissolve without creating a wet dough, giving the crust its characteristic firmness while still being easy to work with once cooled.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Backyard Chef specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Backyard Chef focuses on approachable, outdoor‑friendly cooking, featuring rustic recipes, grilling techniques, and step‑by‑step guides for home cooks who love cooking in their backyard.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Backyard Chef's approach to British pastry differ from other cooking channels?

A

Backyard Chef emphasizes simplicity and minimal equipment, often using a single pot and basic tools, whereas many other channels rely on specialized mixers or elaborate techniques. The channel also highlights making traditional pies that can be enjoyed outdoors.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Express apple tart with shortcrust pastry flavored with tonka bean
10

Express apple tart with shortcrust pastry flavored with tonka bean

A quick and indulgent apple tart, made with a sweet shortcrust pastry scented with tonka bean. No dough resting, no mixer, just butter, flour, apples and a touch of almond to absorb moisture. Perfect for an improvised dessert among friends or family.

1 hr 15 minServes 4$9
French
Sweet pastry dough for tart - Crispy crust
8

Sweet pastry dough for tart - Crispy crust

A technical sweet pastry dough, light and very crispy, ideal for lemon meringue tarts, chocolate tarts, fresh fruit or any other filling. The dough is worked cold, rests 2 h, then is blind baked to achieve clean edges and a base that does not puff.

3 hrs 32 minServes 8$4
French
Strawberry and Raspberry Tartlets with Shortcrust Pastry and Pastry Cream
14

Strawberry and Raspberry Tartlets with Shortcrust Pastry and Pastry Cream

Individual tartlets with shortcrust pastry, filled with a silky pastry cream, fresh strawberries, raspberries and a glossy apricot jam glaze. Perfect for a refreshing summer dessert or an elegant tea-time treat.

1 hr 32 minServes 10$9
French
Mango and Coconut Tart, Chocolate Shortcrust Pastry
11

Mango and Coconut Tart, Chocolate Shortcrust Pastry

A decadent tart combining a chocolate shortcrust pastry, a silky coconut cream and fresh mango dice, all caramelized with a torch. Ideal for an elegant summer dessert.

2 hrs 50 minServes 8$11
French
Classic English Apple Pie with Shortcrust Pastry
823

Classic English Apple Pie with Shortcrust Pastry

A luxurious English apple pie made in Harrods' Georgian Tea Room, featuring a buttery shortcrust pastry, a silky apple cream, and a cooked‑apple filling that stays perfectly moist without becoming soggy. Serves 8‑10 people.

9 hrs 17 minServes 9$109
British
Pâte Brisée (Shortcrust Pastry)
20

Pâte Brisée (Shortcrust Pastry)

A classic French shortcrust pastry dough that works for both sweet and savory tarts. The recipe uses plain flour (type T55), cold butter, a little water and optional sugar. After a brief rest in the fridge, the dough is rolled thin, blind‑baked and ready for any filling.

1 hr 45 minServes 8$1
French
Steak and Onion Pie with Hot Water Crust Pastry
47

Steak and Onion Pie with Hot Water Crust Pastry

A classic British steak and onion pie made with a sturdy hot‑water‑crust pastry. Lean diced rump steak is simmered in beef stock with onions until tender, then encased in a buttery, flaky crust and baked to golden perfection. Served with a rich, glossy gravy.

5 hrs 55 minServes 6$10
British
How to make Shortcrust Pastry for pies
18

How to make Shortcrust Pastry for pies

A buttery, golden shortcrust pastry enriched with grated cheddar cheese. Made by hand using the classic half‑fat‑to‑flour method, this versatile dough is perfect for Aussie meat pies, tarts, or any savory hand‑pie you crave.

13 minServes 6$7
Australian