Classic Pie Crust Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, very cold, cut into small cubes
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Ensure the butter is very cold. You can even place it in the freezer for about 15 minutes before using.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Mix well.
- Cut in the Butter:
- Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It’s okay if there are some larger pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
- Add Ice Water:
- Begin by adding 1/4 cup of ice water to the flour and butter mixture. Gently mix with a fork or your hands. Add more water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. You may not need the full 1/2 cup of water.
- Form the Dough:
- Gather the dough into a ball and divide it in half. Flatten each half into a disk. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).
- Roll Out the Dough:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to fit your pie plate, about 1/8 inch thick. Carefully transfer the dough to the pie plate, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
- For Double-Crust Pie:
- If making a double-crust pie, roll out the second disk of dough. After filling your pie with the desired filling, place the second rolled-out dough on top. Trim any excess, then crimp or seal the edges as desired. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Blind Baking (Optional):
- If your recipe calls for a pre-baked crust (blind baking), preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the pie crust with parchment paper or aluminum foil and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15-20 minutes, then remove the weights and lining and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the crust is golden brown.
- Bake as Directed:
- For pies requiring further baking, follow the recipe instructions for filling and baking times.
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Allow the pie to cool before serving to set the filling.
This classic pie crust is versatile and can be used for both sweet and savory pies. Enjoy your homemade pie with a delicious flaky crust!