I have to tell you, there’s something magical about a homemade pie crust. The flaky, buttery goodness can transform even the most ordinary filling into a slice of heaven. Honestly, every time I make this All Butter Pie Crust, it takes me back to the kitchen of my grandma. She had a way of teaching me that the best ingredients come from the heart and the hands. It feels like each swirl of the rolling pin and every pinch of flour carries the love and warmth of family gatherings and cherished recipes passed down through the years.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. Use it for sweet or savory pies, and you’ll impress your family and friends with your baking prowess. Plus, who can resist the allure of a golden-brown crust that’s flaky yet tender? Alright, let’s jump into what makes this recipe so special!
What’s in All Butter Pie Crust?
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our crust! I usually go for unbleached all-purpose flour because it has a bit more flavor and works beautifully for that flaky texture.
Unsalted Butter: This is where the magic happens! Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt in your crust. I like to use high-quality European-style butter because it has a higher fat content and gives an extra rich flavor.
Salt: Just a pinch goes a long way to elevate the flavor of the crust. I use kosher salt for its texture, but feel free to use table salt if that’s what you have on hand.
Ice Water: This is essential for bringing the dough together without overheating the butter, maintaining that delicious flakiness. Just remember to use ice-cold water to keep everything nice and chilled!
Is All Butter Pie Crust Good for You?
While this pie crust is undeniably delicious, it’s important to consider its nutritional profile.
Butter: The star of our crust, butter does contain saturated fats, but when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet. It’s rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are great for your health.
Flour: The all-purpose flour does provide carbohydrates for energy, but if you’re looking for more fiber, you could substitute some in with whole wheat flour.
However, keep in mind that this pie crust is definitely a treat! So, save it for special occasions or when you just need a little indulgence.
Ingredients List
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced (about 2 sticks)
– 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
This recipe will serve as a delightful crust for a single pie (8-9 inches or 10-11 inches for a deep dish).
How to Make All Butter Pie Crust?
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Give it a little stir to mix everything together.
2. Add the chilled, diced unsalted butter into the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Remember, it’s okay to leave some pea-sized pieces of butter – that’s what helps create that flaky texture!
3. Gradually add in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough starts to come together. Add just enough water for the dough to hold, but don’t overwork it.
4. Once the dough is formed, divide it into two discs and wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or even overnight if you’re planning ahead!
5. When you’re ready to use the crust, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness and transfer it to your pie dish.
6. Follow the specific baking instructions for your pie filling, and enjoy the beautiful, flaky crust you’ve just made!
Crust Creations and Tips for Perfection!
– **Pre-Baking**: If you’re making a custard or cream pie, you’ll want to pre-bake your crust (also known as blind baking). Just line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes.
– **Flavors and Variations**: You can swap in 1/4 cup of ground nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for a nutty flavor. Just make sure to adjust your flour accordingly!
– **Storage**: You can store your pie crust in the freezer for up to 3 months! Just remember to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and seal it in a freezer bag.
I can’t wait for you to try making this All Butter Pie Crust! It’s a recipe that not only fills your kitchen with that fantastic aroma but also fills your heart with warmth and nostalgia. Go ahead, bake a pie, and share your delightful creations with family and friends. Trust me, every slice will be a hug in dessert form!
