Classic Butter Pie Pastry Tips
What type of fat should I use in my pastry crust?
Pie crusts can be made with butter, shortening or lard. While lard and shortening do turn out a tender, flaky crust, the flavor is often lacking. But recipes made with butter (like this one) provide tender layers along with a fabulous buttery flavor.
Should my butter be cold?
Yes, always start with cold butter. That way, the heat of the oven will melt it, creating pockets of steam. The steam then gives the pastry a lift, resulting in flaky layers. Chill the dough according to the recipe directions and soften it only slightly before rolling on a lightly floured surface.
How should I mix the dough?
When mixing pie crust dough, a gentle hand is needed to create flaky layers. Using a fork, toss (don’t press) cold butter and water into the flour just until everything is mixed and thoroughly coated. Overmixing or handling the dough too much will create a tough crust.
How do I roll an even crust?
To ensure even rolling, give the dough a quarter turn after each roll. This will also help prevent the butter from melting and the dough from sticking to your work surface and rolling pin. Most pie recipes are rolled out to 1/8-inch thickness. But just how thick is that? Here’s a handy hack: Two stacked quarters measure 1/8 inches! So keep them nearby for an easy guide. Here are a few of our favorite
pie crust secrets.
What should I do if my pastry rips while I’m rolling it out?
Try this easy fix. Simply dip a finger into cold water and patch with a bit of extra dough; gently press. Sprinkle a little flour onto the patch.
How do I make a fluted edge?
Flute the crust by positioning your index finger on the edge pointing outward. Then place the thumb and index finger of your other hand on the outside of the edge and pinch the crust around your finger to form a V. Continue around the entire edge.
Can I freeze unbaked dough for later use?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked dough for later use! Prepare the dough as directed and shape into a disk. Wrap tightly in waxed paper; freeze in a freezer container for up to several weeks. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. (Psst! Find more tips in this
pie crust guide!)
Research contributed by Sarah Farmer, Taste of Home Executive Culinary Director
Reviews
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I gave up on pie crusts years ago. Just never had the knack. So I saw a recipe that needed a pie crust and I wanted to give it another try. I have faith in Taste of Home recipes and decided to try again with this pie crust recipe. Well let me tell you, this is the recipe for me. I had no problems and it was a success, not to mention, light, crispy and delicious. Thank you for sharing this recipe!
Best recipe...I can actually make pie crust...easy...I use a food processor and it works beautifully!
Classic Butter Pie Pastry
This is my go to pastry recipe. It always turns out flaky and has a nice buttery flavor. I've shared this recipe countless times as people ask how I achieve such a flaky, buttery crust.
Not just like mom's. This is one recipe for a pie crust that I will never use again. Give me good old lard for both flavor, texture and flakiness.
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This will now be my go to pie crust! It is delicious and so easy to make.
I have been making my pie crust with real butter for years. Reviewers are right -- you need to double the complete recipe for a two-crust pie. Butter will make a much tastier crust.
I used this to make a gluten free crust. I used cup for cup gluten free flour and it was really good. Cooked up nice and tasted great too. I give credit to the butter. I only made one crust but did notice the mistake for the double crust. I would just double the recipe for the single crust not a big deal.