A pastry blender, also known as a pastry cutter or dough blender, is a cooking utensil used to mix a hard (solid) fat into flour in order to make pastries. The tool is usually made of narrow metal strips or wires attached to a handle, and is used by pressing down on the items to be mixed, a process known as "cutting in". It is also used to break these fats (shortening, butter, lard) into smaller pieces. The blending of fat into flour at this stage impacts the amount of water that will be needed to bind the pastry into a dough.

Pastry blenders are essential tools for making flaky baked goods such as buttermilk biscuits, pie crusts, scones, and turnovers. They are used to cut butter or other fats into dry ingredients like flour, which is necessary for creating the signature flaky texture of these pastries.

If you dont have a pastry blender, there are several alternatives you can use, such as a fork, knives, or even your hands. However, a pastry blender is designed specifically for this task and will make the process much easier and more efficient.

In summary, a pastry blender is a handheld tool used to cut butter or other fats into flour for pastry dough. It is an essential tool for making flaky baked goods and impacts the amount of water needed to bind the pastry into a dough.