Easy Pie Crust Recipe

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There’s something magical about a homemade pie, and the secret lies in its crust. A flaky, buttery pie crust can transform any filling, from classic apple to rich pecan. If making pie crust from scratch feels daunting, this easy pie crust recipe will change that.

Using simple ingredients like butter and flour, plus a few expert tips, you’ll create perfect crusts effortlessly. Whether you’re a novice or experienced baker, this foolproof recipe is ideal for sweet or savory pies.

For a healthy balance, try Moringa Actives to support metabolism. Let’s get baking.

See also: Easy Homemade Pumpkin Pie Recipe

Why This Pie Crust Recipe Works

This recipe is designed for simplicity and reliability. It uses a combination of butter for flavor and shortening for flakiness, creating a crust that’s tender yet sturdy.

Cold ingredients and minimal handling ensure those coveted flaky layers. The addition of vinegar helps tenderize the dough, making it easier to roll out. This recipe yields enough dough for a double-crust pie, so you can make a classic apple pie or save half for later.

For those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying homemade treats, consider pairing your baking with supplements like Moringa Actives, which supports weight loss and metabolism, or Fibre Select, a vital fiber that cleanses the body and enhances well-being.

Ingredients for Easy Pie Crust

Here’s what you’ll need to make this perfect pie crust. All ingredients are pantry staples, and we’ve linked them for easy shopping:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for sweet pies)
½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
½ cup cold vegetable shortening
6–8 tablespoons ice-cold water
1 teaspoon white vinegar

Pro Tip: Keep your butter and shortening in the fridge until you’re ready to use them. Cold fats are key to a flaky crust.

See also: Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed

You don’t need fancy gadgets to make this pie crust, but these tools will make the process easier. Each is linked to Amazon for your convenience:

Mixing bowl: For combining ingredients.
Pastry cutter: To cut the fat into the flour.
Rolling pin: For rolling out the dough evenly.
Pie dish: A 9-inch dish works best for this recipe.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurements.
Plastic wrap: To wrap and chill the dough.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps for a pie crust that’s golden, flaky, and delicious:

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and granulated sugar (if using). This ensures even distribution.

Step 2: Cut in the Fats

Add the cold butter and shortening. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the fats into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces.

Step 3: Add Liquid

Mix the ice-cold water and vinegar. Add the liquid to the flour mixture, one tablespoon at a time, stirring gently with a fork. Stop when the dough begins to clump together. It should hold together when squeezed but not be sticky.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into two equal portions and shape each into a flat disk. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll out one disk into a 12-inch circle, about ⅛-inch thick. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, trimming any excess dough.

Step 6: Fill and Bake

Add your pie filling. Roll out the second disk for a top crust (if making a double-crust pie) and crimp the edges. Cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape. Bake according to your pie recipe’s instructions, typically at 375°F for 45–60 minutes.

Pro Tip: For a golden crust, brush the top with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water) before baking.

Tips for the Perfect Pie Crust

Keep Everything Cold: Chill your butter, shortening, and even your mixing bowl for the flakiest results.
Don’t Overwork the Dough: Handle the dough as little as possible to prevent a tough crust.
Use a Light Hand with Flour: Too much flour when rolling can make the crust dense.
Chill Before Baking: A chilled crust holds its shape better in the oven.
Try a Supplement for Energy: Baking can be tiring! Boost your stamina with Cappuccino MCT, a slimming coffee that enhances energy and metabolism.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

This recipe makes enough dough for one double-crust pie or two single-crust pies, yielding about 8 servings. Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on a double-crust pie):

Calories: 290 kcal
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 24g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 3g

Note: Nutrition facts can vary based on exact ingredient brands and measurements. For a lighter option, try pairing your pie with Keto Actives, a supplement that supports weight loss and appetite control, especially for those on a ketogenic diet.

Storing and Freezing Pie Crust

Refrigerator: Store wrapped dough disks in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
Baked Pie: Store baked pies at room temperature for 1–2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Variations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Vegan: Use all vegetable shortening or vegan butter and skip the egg wash.
Whole Wheat: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
Lard: Substitute shortening with lard for an old-fashioned crust.

For those watching their weight, Fat Burn Active is a great supplement to support fat metabolism and help you achieve your fitness goals while enjoying homemade treats.

See also: Easy Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Pairing Your Pie Crust with Fillings

This versatile crust works with countless fillings. Here are a few ideas:

Sweet Pies: Apple, pumpkin, pecan, or cherry.
Savory Pies: Chicken pot pie, quiche, or mushroom tart.
No-Bake Pies: Use a pre-baked crust for creamy fillings like chocolate or key lime.

Health and Wellness While Baking

Baking is a labor of love, but it can be physically demanding. Support your body with supplements designed for overall health:

Boost Immunity: Try NuviaLab Immune to strengthen your immune system with natural ingredients like elderberry and zinc.
Support Digestion: Probiosin Plus combines probiotics with weight management benefits, perfect for keeping your gut healthy.
Control Blood Sugar: NuviaLab Sugar Control helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, especially if you’re indulging in sweet pies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this pie crust ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dough and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen dough in the fridge overnight before rolling.

2. Why is my pie crust tough?

A tough crust is often due to overworking the dough or adding too much water. Mix just until the dough comes together, and use the minimum amount of liquid needed.

3. Can I use this crust for savory pies?

Absolutely! Omit the granulated sugar for savory pies like quiche or pot pie. The crust is versatile and works with any filling.

4. How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?

Blind bake the crust (pre-bake with pie weights) for wet fillings like custard or fruit pies. You can also brush the bottom with egg white before adding the filling to create a barrier.

5. What’s the best way to crimp pie crust edges?

Use your fingers or a fork to press the top and bottom crusts together. For a decorative edge, pinch the dough between your thumb and forefinger to create a fluted pattern.

See also: Best Vanilla Cake Recipe

Conclusion

This easy pie crust recipe is your ticket to homemade pies that look and taste professional. With just a few ingredients and some simple techniques, you can create a flaky, buttery crust that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re baking a sweet apple pie for Thanksgiving or a savory quiche for brunch, this recipe is versatile and reliable. Plus, with the right tools and a little practice, you’ll be a pie crust pro in no time.

For those looking to balance indulgence with wellness, supplements like Meltamin, a cactus-flavored fat burner, or Collagen Select, for healthy skin and joints, can support your health goals. So grab your rolling pin, stock up on butter, and get baking, because your perfect pie is just a recipe away.