What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade pie crust is perfect for anyone who loves baking from scratch! It’s simple to make, tastes incredible, and turns out flaky every time. You’ll love that it uses just a few basic ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. It’s also super versatile, working for both sweet and savory recipes. Plus, you’ll feel like a pro baker when you see how amazing your pies look and taste!
Recipe
A flaky, buttery homemade pie crust is the foundation for countless delicious pies. This simple recipe yields a tender, golden crust that works perfectly for both sweet and savory fillings.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional, for sweet pies)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar (if using).
- Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces.
- Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough just comes together. Do not overwork.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12-inch circle, then transfer to a pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges as desired.
- For a pre-baked crust, prick the bottom with a fork, line with parchment paper, and fill with pie weights. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, then remove weights and bake for 10-12 minutes more until golden.
Notes:
- Keep ingredients cold for a flaky texture.
- For a double crust, double the recipe and divide into two disks.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Rolling pin
- 9-inch pie dish
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Chilling time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes (if pre-baking)
Cuisine: American
Serving: Makes one 9-inch single pie crust.
Nutrition
Homemade pie crust provides essential nutrients and calories. Here are the nutritional details per serving (1 slice, about 1/8 of a 9-inch crust).
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 kcal |
| Total Fat | 9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
| Sodium | 130 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 14 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugars | 0 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade pie crust with sweet fillings like apple or cherry, but I’ve also found it works wonders with savory options like chicken pot pie. Depending on the occasion, I’ll whip up something creamy or fruity to complement the buttery crust. Let’s explore the best fillings and pairings to make your pie shine!
Sweet Fillings
When you’ve got a flaky, golden homemade pie crust ready, it’s time to think about the sweet fillings that’ll make it truly special. I love classic apple with cinnamon, or juicy peach slices tossed in brown sugar. For something richer, try silky chocolate custard or tangy lemon curd. Berries—strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries—burst with freshness when lightly sugared. Don’t forget pumpkin spiced with nutmeg or sweet potato with a hint of vanilla. Each filling brings its own magic, turning that perfect crust into a dessert worth savoring. Experiment, and you’ll find your favorite!
Savory Pairings
While a homemade pie crust shines in sweet desserts, it’s just as versatile in savory dishes—trust me, it’s a game-changer. I love using it for quiches filled with spinach, cheese, and bacon, or a hearty chicken pot pie brimming with tender veggies and creamy sauce. Shepherd’s pie gets a twist with a flaky crust instead of mashed potatoes, and I’ve even stuffed it with sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions for a vegetarian option. Don’t forget hand pies—perfect for on-the-go lunches with fillings like spiced beef or roasted veggies. The possibilities are endless, and each bite feels like comfort.
