Which technique is commonly used to create a shiny finish on pastries?

A shiny finish on pastries is typically achieved through the use of an egg wash. An egg wash is a mixture of beaten eggs, often combined with a small amount of water or milk, that is applied to the surface of dough before baking. This mixture not only gives pastries a beautiful golden color but also creates a glossy sheen as the sugars in the egg caramelize in the oven, enhancing both the appearance and texture of the finished product.

Using sifting is important for achieving the right texture and ensuring that dry ingredients are well combined, but it does not contribute to the shiny finish of the pastries. Brushing with butter can enhance flavor and contribute to browning, but it does not provide the same level of gloss as an egg wash. Basting is a technique usually associated with meats and does not apply to pastries in the same way. Thus, the most effective technique for achieving that desirable shiny finish on pastries is indeed the egg wash.