Just like the good manners your mother taught you, the Zen Master’s sweet tart dough is an invaluable basic; and one that can increase your value in a marketplace sorely in need of simplicity, grace, and excellent taste.

1. 6 tbs unsalted butter (not cold this time, room temperature)
2. ½ cup confectioner’s sugar
3. 2 large eggs
4. 1½ cups all purpose flour
5. ¼ tsp salt
6. 2 tsp heavy cream

Using an electric mixer with the paddle attachment, combine the butter and sugar – on low speed.Add the egg yolks, and continue beating until combinedAdd ¾ cup of the flour until just incorporated, about 30 secondsAdd remaining ¾ cup flour and salt and cream. Mix until flour is no longer visible.Turn out dough onto a piece of plastic wrap and shape into a flattened diskWrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 2 hoursRoll out