Step 1: Prepare the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, sift together the 250g of plain flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Make a well in the center and add the 150ml of cold water and a squeeze of lemon juice (if using). Mix the ingredients together until a soft dough forms. The lemon juice helps to strengthen the gluten, resulting in a better rise.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Block

• On a lightly floured surface, shape the cold butter into a flat square, about 1cm (1/2 inch) thick. Wrap the butter block in cling film and chill it in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Encase the Butter

• Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about twice the size of your butter block. Place the chilled butter block in the center of the dough. Fold the dough over the butter, encasing it completely. Ensure the edges are sealed tightly to prevent the butter from escaping during rolling.

Step 4: First Rolling and Folding (Turn 1)

• Roll the dough out gently into a long rectangle, approximately three times as long as it is wide. Fold the top third of the dough down to the center, then fold the bottom third up over the top, like folding a letter. This process is known as a “turn.” Rotate the dough 90 degrees so that the folded edges are facing you.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

• Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes. This rest period allows the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up again.

Step 6: Second and Third Turns

• Repeat the rolling and folding process (Step 4) two more times, chilling the dough for 20-30 minutes between each turn. After the third turn, the dough should have multiple layers of butter and dough, creating the flaky structure of puff pastry.

Step 7: Final Chill and Use

• After completing the turns, wrap the dough tightly in cling film and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before using. This final rest ensures the dough is firm and easy to work with when shaping and baking.

Step 8: Roll Out and Bake

• When ready to use, roll the chilled dough out on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Cut and shape the dough as needed for your recipe. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) until puffed and golden brown, typically for 15-25 minutes depending on the size and shape of the pastry.