Pate Sucree

Directions

1. 1
   In a large bowl with your fingertips or with two knives blend the flour, sugar, salt, and the butter until the mixture resembles meal.
2. 2
   Add the egg and 1 tablespoon of the water, toss the mixture until the liquid is incorporated, adding 1 more tablespoon of water if the mixture is dry, and form the dough into a ball.
3. 3
   Knead the dough lightly with the heel of your hand against a smooth surface for a few seconds to distribute the fat evenly and re-form it into a ball.
4. 4
   Dust the dough with flour and chill it, wrapped in waxed paper, for 1 hour.
5. 5
   PATE SUCREE: PROCESSOR METHOD:
6. 6
   In a food processor fitted with the plastic or steel blade combine the flour, sugar, salt, and butter and process the mixture until it resembles coarse meal.
7. 7
   In a bowl combine the egg with 1 tablespoon of the water and sprinkle it over the flour mixture.
8. 8
   Process the mixture until it comes together in large pieces about the size of pebbles and transfer the dough to a work surface.
9. 9
   If the mixture is dry, sprinkle it with 1 more tablespoon water.
10. 10
    With the heel of your hand knead the dough against a smooth surface for a few seconds to distribute the fat evenly and form it into a ball.
11. 11
    Dust the dough with flour and chill it, wrapped in waxed paper, for at least 1 hour or for up to 2 days.