This homemade flaky pie crust recipe will elevate your pie-baking game. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a buttery and tender crust that will perfectly complement your favorite pie fillings. Whether you're making a classic apple pie or a savory quiche, this flaky pie crust is the perfect base for all your creations. Get ready to impress your friends and family with your homemade pies!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¼ to ½ cup ice water
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the bowl.
- Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, starting with ¼ cup, and mix until the dough comes together. Add more water if needed, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a disc. Don't overwork the dough.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible.
- When ready to use, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit your pie dish.
- Carefully transfer the dough to the pie dish and trim any excess overhang.
- Crimp the edges of the crust using your fingers or a fork.
- If your recipe calls for a pre-baked crust, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
- If your recipe calls for a filled and baked crust, follow the instructions for your specific pie filling and baking time.
- Once baked, let the pie crust cool completely before filling.
Interesting Facts
Using cold butter and ice water helps create a flaky texture in the crust.
Refrigerating the dough before rolling it out helps prevent shrinkage during baking.
You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months, allowing you to make pie crusts in advance.
A fork can be used to create decorative edges on the crust.
Feel free to experiment with different pie crust flavors by adding herbs, spices, or even cheese.