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Many home cooks avoid making phyllo dough because they think it's too complex or time-consuming. The reality is different. You can create this delicate pastry in your kitchen with the right technique. Success depends on understanding a few basic principles and following proper guidance.

Quick and Easy: How to Make Phyllo Dough from Scratch

Making phyllo dough from scratch is simpler than it appears, and it can elevate your culinary skills by giving you fresh, homemade sheets perfect for flaky pastries like baklava or spanakopita. Follow these steps for thin, crispy, paper-like layers.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 5-6 large sheets

Ingredients

  • Strong white bread flour – 2 ½ cups (315g)
  • Warm water – ¾ cup (180 ml)
  • Olive oil – ⅓ cup (75 ml)
  • White vinegar – 2 tsp
  • Salt – ½ tsp
  • Cornstarch – for dusting

Instructions

  • Mix the Dough:
    • Sift the flour and salt into a mixing bowl.
    • Create a well in the center, add olive oil and vinegar, and mix until absorbed.
    • Gradually add warm water while mixing until a soft, non-sticky dough forms.
  • Knead:
    • Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
    • If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and mix until the dough clings to the hook, then finish with 2 minutes of hand kneading.
  • Rest the Dough:
    • Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30-90 minutes.
  • Roll Out the Dough:
    • Divide the dough into 5 pieces, shape them into disks, and dust with cornstarch.
    • Roll each disk to double its size and keep stacking with cornstarch in between.
  • Stretch the Dough:
    • Use a rolling pin or dowel to stretch the dough further, aiming for a thin, paper-like sheet.
    • Carefully handle to avoid tears, using gentle pressure.

Notes

  • Rest Time: Proper gluten development requires resting the dough; this prevents shrinkage during rolling.
  • Pro Tip: Use a pasta roller for even sheets if available.
  • Storage: Keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel and plastic wrap to avoid drying.
  • Author: Eva Chef
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: Not applicable (for dough prep)
  • Category: Dough/Pastry
  • Method: Hand-rolled or machine-assisted
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian