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22 June 2010

easy peasy pie crust

This was originally shared with me by my friend (who also happens to be my mother-in-law - yes I am VERY blessed :)

She got this from her Mom - who I believe got it from Betty Crocker...

very simple ingredients:
for  single pie crust
(if you want a double, just double the recipe)
Preheat oven to 475 degrees

2 cups (280 grams) all purpose flour - 
my latest favorite is Eagle Mills - I'll post more about it soon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup oil - sometimes just a tad more - I have found depending on the weather
1/4 cup milk*  see below for more on the milk part

Mix flour and salt in bowl with fork.  Pour oil into measuring cup and add milk.  Do not mix.  Make a well in center of flour/salt and pour in milk/oil.  Stir with fork until mixed.  Place sheet of wax paper on counter, with a bit of water underneath so it won't slide around.  
Put mound of crust on wax paper and cover with another sheet of wax paper.  
Roll out with rolling pin to desired thickness. 
Take off top wax paper and put pie plate beside crust.

Lift up crust on the wax paper and do your best to flip the crust onto the pie plate.

Gently pull away the wax paper. 
Now, if the crust breaks or whatever, just repair it.  This crust is incredibly forgiving.  Today, I know, my pictures make it look easy, but I have had days where I have had huge rips and tears.  No biggie, just piece it back together.
Shape the edges - I usually go around the rim and make sure I have an even amount of crust for the edge and then shape it how I want it to look.  
And yes, scissors can help even things up...

If this is for a baked pie crust, poke lots of holes in the bottom and up the sides with a fork and then bake till done - this can be 8 to 12 minutes.  Set your timer and check often.

I have tried baking with stuff in the crust (you know like beans) to keep the crust from getting puffy, but I have found that if I prick enough holes with the fork, I don't have any problems.
I will post a pic of the baked crust soon - sorry - I forgot...

*As far as milk goes, you can try different kinds and see what you like.  I have had some interesting results.  
This crust was made with vanilla soy milk. My in-laws like ones I make with evaporated milk.  I recently tried whipping cream and it was great with a fruit pie.  Have fun and happy baking! 
I'd love to know what you think :)

1 comment:

Sant Family said...

You always make stuff like this look sooooo easy!