Butter Pie Crust
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Elevate your baking with this flaky, buttery pie crust recipe that's perfect for any dessert. Whether you're making traditional pecan pie or experimenting with other fillings, this versatile crust delivers a tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience that will impress your family and friends. Easy to follow and quick to whip up, it’s an essential addition to your baking repertoire.
This pie crust is a game-changer for your baking. Its rich and buttery flavor complements any filling, making it a go-to for all your dessert needs.
The Importance of a Good Pie Crust
A good pie crust is the foundation of many delicious desserts. It not only encases your fillings but also contributes to the overall flavor and texture. A flaky and buttery crust can elevate even the simplest fillings, turning a standard dessert into a showstopper. This butter pie crust recipe allows for versatility, making it suitable for various sweet or savory pies, from fruit-filled creations to creamy custards.
Many bakers underestimate the significance of mastering the perfect pie crust. It’s essential to achieve the right balance of ingredients to create that tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. By following this recipe, you’ll gain confidence in your pie-making skills and impress your loved ones with your delectable creations.
Tips for Success
When making your pie crust, use cold ingredients to ensure the butter stays solid and creates those delightful flaky layers. Keeping your kitchen cool, especially in warmer months, can also help maintain the dough's integrity. If your butter starts to melt while mixing, pop it back into the refrigerator briefly until it firms up again.
Don’t rush the chilling process. Giving the dough time to rest in the fridge not only enhances the texture but also makes it easier to roll out. If you have time, consider chilling the dough for longer than the recommended 30 minutes—for a couple of hours or even overnight—to develop a richer flavor.
Ingredients
Butter Pie Crust Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, diced
- 1/4 cup ice water
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together.
- Add the diced cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour in the ice water gradually and stir until the dough comes together.
Chill and Roll Out
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- After chilling, roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.
Bake
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place the rolled out dough in a pie dish, trim the edges, and fill with your desired filling.
- Bake according to your pie recipe's instructions.
Important Techniques for Rolling and Baking
When rolling out your pie dough, work on a lightly floured surface and be gentle to avoid overworking the dough. This ensures that your crust remains tender and flaky. Use a rolling pin to gradually roll from the center outwards, turning the dough occasionally, to achieve an even thickness.
Baking your pie crust properly is equally important. For a golden-brown crust, consider blind baking it if your filling requires a longer baking time. To do this, line your crust with parchment paper, fill it with pie weights or dried beans, and bake until it is just golden.
Storing Your Pie Crust
If you want to prepare your pie crust ahead of time, you can store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the dough well in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months.
When you're ready to use your frozen pie crust, transfer it to the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to thaw, and then let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling it out. This will make it more pliable and easier to handle.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ What should I do if my dough is too wet?
If the dough is too wet, gradually add more flour until it reaches the desired consistency.
Butter Pie Crust
Elevate your baking with this flaky, buttery pie crust recipe that's perfect for any dessert. Whether you're making traditional pecan pie or experimenting with other fillings, this versatile crust delivers a tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience that will impress your family and friends. Easy to follow and quick to whip up, it’s an essential addition to your baking repertoire.
Created by: Olivia Hayes
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 1 pie crust
What You'll Need
Butter Pie Crust Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, diced
- 1/4 cup ice water
How-To Steps
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together.
- Add the diced cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour in the ice water gradually and stir until the dough comes together.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- After chilling, roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place the rolled out dough in a pie dish, trim the edges, and fill with your desired filling.
- Bake according to your pie recipe's instructions.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 3g