How to Make Pie Crusts (Recipe)

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By crazycatlady
User-Submitted Article

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Originally, the crust of pie was just a vessel to hold the filling, and was not eaten.

There are so many variations in pie crust recipes, but here is a simple one with few ingredients. It can be used with all kinds of pies, including pot pies.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

4 c. flour
2 tsp salt
1 1/3 c shortening
8-12 Tbsp cold water

Step 1

Mix flour, salt and shortening by hand in a cold glass or metal bowl. Dough will be crumbly.
Step 2

Slowly work in just enough cold water to hold the dough together.
Step 3

Roll out on a floured surface to the desired thickness. Avoid overworking the dough. It may need to be chilled to prevent it from becoming too soft and tearing.
Step 4

Drape the crust over your pie pan, and cut to size. About 1 inch of dough should hang over the edge of the pan so you have enough to make an edge on the crust.
Step 5

If your pie recipe requires a pre-baked pie crust, pierce the bottom of the crust several times with a fork before baking to prevent air bubbles, then bake at 450 F for 10-15 minutes, or until browned.

Tips & Warnings

Cut leftover pie crust into strips, sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon, and bake until crisp for an additional snack.
Pie crust can be refrigerated for 3 days or frozen for 2 months.