Making a pie crust from scratch is easier than you think! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flaky and delicious crust that will be the foundation of your favorite pies. Whether you’re making a sweet dessert or a savory dish, this pie crust recipe will give you the perfect base.
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you make this pie crust? First off, it tastes way better than store-bought! Plus, it’s a fun activity you can do with your family. Making your own crust allows you to choose the quality of ingredients, ensuring a fresher taste. Once you try it, you’ll never want to go back!
How to Make Pie Crust
Making pie crust is quick and simple. Follow these easy steps to create a perfect pie crust every time!
Ingredients:
- 2 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1⁄4 tsp salt
- 1⁄4 cup vegetable shortening
- 10 tbsp very cold unsalted butter
- 6-10 tbsp cold water
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. This creates the base for your crust.
- Cut in the vegetable shortening and the cold butter. You want the mixture to look like coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time. Mix until the dough comes together. It doesn’t need to be perfect!
- Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk. This will help you roll it out later.
- Wrap the disks in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling the dough helps it become flakier.
How to Serve Pie Crust
Once your pie crust is ready to go, roll it out on a floured surface and fit it into your pie pan. You can use it for any pie—whether it’s filled with fruit, custard, or something savory. Bake according to your pie recipe for the best results!
How to Store Pie Crust
If you have leftover pie crust or want to make it ahead of time, you can wrap the dough in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before using.
Tips to Make Pie Crust
- Use very cold butter to ensure a flaky texture.
- Don’t overwork the dough; mix just until it comes together.
- If the dough feels too dry, add more cold water, one tablespoon at a time.
Variation
You can add different flavors to your pie crust. For a sweet pie, consider adding a tablespoon of sugar to the flour mixture. For a savory pie, you could add herbs to the dough.
FAQs
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but it may change the flavor and texture slightly.
2. How do I know when the crust is done baking?
The crust should be golden brown and firm to the touch.
3. Can I make this crust gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary.
Now you have everything you need to make a delicious pie crust. Happy baking!
