How long and at what temperature should you bake basic pastry dough?

It's impossible to give a definitive baking time and temperature for basic pastry dough without knowing more specifics. Here's why:

Factors that affect baking time and temperature:

* Type of pastry: Is it a flaky pie crust, a rich tart crust, or a simple cookie dough? Each requires different baking conditions.

* Thickness of the dough: A thick crust will need longer baking than a thin one.

* Size and shape of the pastry: A large pie will take longer to bake than a small tart.

* Filling: If the pastry has a filling, this will affect baking time.

* Oven type and temperature variation: Ovens can vary in temperature.

General guidelines:

* Temperature: Most pastry doughs are baked at 375°F (190°C). However, some recipes call for higher or lower temperatures.

* Time: This can range from 10-20 minutes for a thin crust to 30-40 minutes for a thicker crust.

Important tips:

* Always follow the recipe: The recipe should provide specific baking instructions for the type of pastry you're making.

* Check for doneness: You can tell if pastry is done by its color (golden brown) and by pressing on it gently. It should be firm to the touch and not soft or doughy.

* Overbaking can make pastry tough: It's better to underbake than to overbake.

To find the right time and temperature for your specific pastry:

1. Consult the recipe: Look for the recommended baking instructions.

2. Check for doneness: Use the tips above to determine when the pastry is ready.

Always adjust your baking time and temperature based on your specific recipe and oven.