This Perfect Pie Crust is your go-to recipe for any pie filling, offering a buttery, flaky texture and rich flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet or savory creations. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a homemade crust that will elevate your pies and impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Versatile: Works perfectly for fruit pies, cream pies, quiches, and more.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps with no special equipment needed.
• Flaky and Delicious: Achieves the ideal balance of texture and taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Dough can be stored for convenience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups shortening
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup ice water

Directions

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, shortening, and sugar.
2. Use a pastry cutter or fork to mix until the texture resembles small gravel or coarse crumbs.

Step 2: Prepare the Liquid Mixture

1. In a separate bowl or liquid measuring cup, beat together the egg and ice water.
2. Stir in the apple cider vinegar.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture.
2. Stir gently with a fork until the dough comes together.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

1. Shape the dough into a ball, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
2. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before rolling out.

Step 5: Roll Out and Use

1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to your desired thickness.
2. Use it for your favorite pie recipes, trimming and crimping as needed.

Step 6: Storage Tips

1. Refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. When ready to use, thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (baking time depends on the pie recipe)
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Butter Swap: Substitute half or all of the shortening with unsalted butter for a richer flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Adjust liquid amounts as needed.
• Savory Crust: Omit the sugar and add a pinch of salt for savory dishes like quiche or pot pie.
• Flavored Crust: Add cinnamon or grated citrus zest for a unique twist.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before use.

FAQs

1. Can I use butter instead of shortening?

Yes, butter works well, offering a rich flavor and slightly firmer crust.

2. How do I prevent the dough from sticking when rolling?

Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin, and rotate the dough frequently.

3. Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling helps solidify the fat, creating flaky layers during baking.

4. Can I use this recipe for a double-crust pie?

Absolutely! This recipe yields enough dough for a double crust or lattice topping.

5. What’s the purpose of vinegar in the dough?

Vinegar helps tenderize the dough by inhibiting gluten development.

6. How do I make the crust extra flaky?

Avoid overmixing the dough to preserve small pockets of fat.

7. Can I pre-bake this crust?

Yes, blind bake by lining the crust with parchment paper, adding pie weights, and baking at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes.

8. What’s the best way to crimp the edges?

Use your fingers or a fork to create decorative edges.

9. Can I add sugar for a sweeter crust?

Yes, increase the sugar to 2 tablespoons for a slightly sweeter crust.

10. What types of pies work best with this crust?

This crust is ideal for fruit pies, custards, cream pies, pot pies, and quiches.

Conclusion

Perfect Pie Crust is a versatile and reliable recipe that ensures your pies are as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re baking a classic apple pie or a savory quiche, this flaky, tender crust will be your go-to. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, homemade pie crust has never been more achievable or rewarding.

Perfect Pie Crust

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• Author: fella
• Prep Time: 15min
• Cook Time: None
• Total Time: 15min
• Yield: Makes enough for two double-crust pies or four single-crust pies.
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Create the ultimate flaky pie crust with this easy recipe! Perfect for sweet or savory pies, this versatile crust will elevate your baking to the next level.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups shortening
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup ice water

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Instructions

1. Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, shortening, and sugar.
• Use a pastry cutter or fork to mix until the texture resembles coarse gravel.

2. Combine Wet Ingredients

• In a separate bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together the egg and ice water.
• Add the apple cider vinegar and mix until combined.

3. Form the Dough

• Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture. Stir with a fork until the dough begins to come together.
• Use your hands to form the dough into a ball, ensuring it is evenly mixed.

4. Chill the Dough

• Wrap the dough ball in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before rolling out.

5. Store or Use

• Refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days, or freeze for later use. Thaw frozen dough in the refrigerator overnight before rolling out.

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Notes

• For extra flavor, substitute a portion of the shortening with unsalted butter.
• Use this crust for any pie—sweet or savory. Pair it with fruit fillings, custards, or quiches!
• To prevent sticking while rolling, dust your work surface and rolling pin with flour.