Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
Instructions:
- Whisk together flour and salt in a large bowl.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Work quickly to keep the butter cold!
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough just comes together. Don’t overmix!
- Divide the dough in half, form each into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
- Let the dough sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/8 inch thickness.
- Transfer to a 9-inch pie plate, trim excess dough, and crimp the edges.
- For a pre-baked crust: prick the bottom with a fork, cover with parchment paper and pie weights (or dried beans), and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- For a regular pie, fill with your favorite filling and bake according to the recipe instructions.
Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect! Practice makes perfect, and soon you’ll be making crusts that would make my grandma proud.
Creative Variations:
- Chocolate Crust: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the flour.
- Almond Crust: Substitute ½ cup flour with finely ground almonds.
- Spiced Crust: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger.
Experiment with flavors to complement your fillings!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Q: Can I use salted butter? A: Unsalted is best for better flavor control.
- Q: Can I freeze the dough? A: Yes! Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before using.
- Q: Can I use whole wheat flour? A: It will create a denser crust. All-purpose is recommended for a lighter texture.
A Slice of Happiness
Grandma’s recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s a legacy of love and tradition. Make it your own, and enjoy the warmth and joy of homemade pie!
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