How To Make Pie Crust

We don’t think anyone would ever argue with the fact that pie is one of pastry’s best creations. Since its conception by the Egyptians around 9500 B.C., the pie has been a winner across all continents, with each culture adapting its own variation with local fruits of the land. And it was actually the fact that such goods could travel by land and sea that made their popularity quickly grow and travel far and fast across the world. But what we’re really here to talk about is the toughest part of making a pie, the crust. The award for people to first create pie crust as we know it today actually goes to the ancient Greeks, who adopted the Egyptian concept but flipped it around to make it richer and sweeter. People started filling the crust with fruits and different sweets and (ta da!) the pie was born. It’s pretty much taken since then to perfect the pie crust but hey, you can’t rush perfection.

And now for our big reveal, we present you with this online pastry course that teaches you how to make the best pie crust. No more waiting, wondering or experimenting for you. The one has finally arrived.

Basic Pie Dough
1 lb unsalted butter, chilled
1 lb 6 oz pastry flour
4 fl oz buttermilk or water
2 tsp salt
1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional)
1 tbsp vanilla extract (optional)

1. Cut the butter into 3/8 inch squares.
2. Sift the flour.
3. Mix the butter into the flour until a mealy texture is reached.
4. Combine the butter, milk and salt. (Water can be used in placed of buttermilk. A tablespoon of sugar and a teaspoon of vanilla extract can be added to create a sweeter, more flavorful pie crust.
5. Gradually add the buttermilk to the flour mixture, mixing until the dough holds together. Do not overmix.
6. Cover with plastic wrap and chill.
7. Roll out on a floured surface. Place in a pan and cut off excess. Crimp the edges for a more dramatic effect.
8. Dock with a fork. Line with parchment and fill with beans for weight when you’re cooking.
9. Bake at 350F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Fill with your favorite filling and serve!