How to Make a Pretty Pie Crust

A decorative edge makes delicious pies even more appealing.

Pies are commonly used as dessert for special occasions, especially holidays. Some people purchase their pies from retailers, while others choose to bake their pies themselves. Baking a pie yourself allows you to create a pie masterpiece. Decorative edging is easy to do and will make your pie a beautiful addition to your table for the holidays.

Things You'll Need

• Pie crust
• Knife
• Small leaf-shaped cookie cutter

Instructions

Leaf Edge

1. Roll out an extra pie crust to 1/8 inch thickness. You will need a second crust, in addition to the bottom crust, to create the leaf edge.

2. Cut 2 inch by 1/2 inch leaves using a small leaf-shaped cookie cutter or knife. Add leaf veins using the knife, taking care not to cut through the dough.

3. Wet the edge of the crust in the pan slightly. This will serve as glue to adhere the leaves to the crust.

4. Place leaves around the edge of the pie, overlapping them and pressing them down gently. Cover the whole edge of the pie crust.

Braided Edges

1. Trim the crust so it is flush to the pan. You will need the dough that you are removing.

2. Roll out the excess dough to about 1/8 of an inch thick and cut into 1/4 inch strips.

3. Braid three 1/4 inch strips together on a floured surface. Create a braid that will be long enough to encircle the entire pan. If you require a longer braid, you may need to moisten the ends of the strips and attach more dough strips to continue your braid.

4. Lay the braid around the edge of the pan. Press the braid down gently to help it stick to the edge of the crust.

Imprinted Edge

1. Lay the tines of a fork onto the edge of the pie crust, pressing down to create an imprint. Place these imprints around the edge, either right against each other or spaced out 1/2 inch apart.

2. Press the top side of a spoon into the edge of the pie. Create any type of circular design you would like all around the edges of the pie.

3. Use the handle end of your utensils to imprint their design. The edge of your pie will perfectly match your silverware.

References

• Recipe Tips: Decorative Pie Crust Edges