A pastry brush is a cooking utensil used to spread butter, oil, or glaze on food. It is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks by any home or professional cook. Typically, a pastry brush is used for pastries and baked goods, while a basting brush is used for meats and vegetables. However, both pastry brushes and basting brushes can be used for a variety of tasks, and it is important to remember to use a designated pastry brush only for baking applications and a basting brush for meat and vegetable basting.

A pastry brush can be used to apply egg wash or melted butter prior to cooking in the oven to give the end product a golden-brown crust. It can also be used to grease a pan quickly and without making a mess. Adding a pastry wash can help to create a golden brown color on the crust, as well as seal in the sides of any formed pastry to prevent the filling from leaking out. In roasting meats, a pastry brush may be used to sop up juices or drippings from under the pan and spread them on the surface of the meat to crisp the skin. A pastry brush can also be dipped in water and used to brush sugar crystals off the side of a saucepan when making homemade caramel.

When selecting a pastry brush, it is important to consider the different types available and your intended application to find a brush that allows you to unlock the full flavor of your signature recipes. A pastry brush is usually made with either a wood or plastic handle, and natural or silicone bristles. While a silicone pastry brush is more durable and dishwasher-safe, a pastry brush with natural bristles is more likely to create an even coating of egg wash, melted butter, or glaze without streaking.