Pâte brisée is a type of French pastry dough known for its rich, buttery flavor and crumbly texture. It is made from a simple mixture of flour, butter, salt, and water. The dough is often used as a base for both sweet and savory dishes, such as tarts and quiches. To prepare pâte brisée, the butter is typically cut into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Cold water is then added to bring the dough together. After resting in the refrigerator, it can be rolled out and shaped for various recipes, making it a versatile choice in baking.