Want That Flaky Pie Crust ? 9 Tips To Follow
By Bornika Das
July 21, 2023
Hardly there are anyone who does not crave for a perfect flaky pir crust. However, a lots of effort goes in making the perfect pie crust at your home. We have collated some kitchen hacks that will help you to achieve the desired result. Take a look:
Quality Ingredients
Opt for a good-quality all-purpose flour, unsalted butter (cold and cubed), a pinch of salt, and a touch of sugar (optional). Using fresh, cold ingredients will enhance the flakiness of your crust.
Embrace the Cold
Maintaining a cold environment throughout the pie crust making process is crucial. Start by chilling your mixing bowl, utensils, and even the flour. Additionally, use ice-cold water and refrigerate the dough before rolling it out.
Proper Fat Distribution
For a flaky pie crust, distribution of fat within the dough is essential. As you mix the butter into the flour, aim for pea-sized butter pieces. These small clumps of butter will melt during baking, leaving behind air pockets that contribute to flakiness.
The Magic of Chilling
After the dough is formed into a disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This step also gives the dough time to evenly distribute moisture, ensuring a consistent texture.
Mastering Rolling Techniques
Start by lightly flouring your work surface and rolling pin. Begin from the centre of the dough and roll outward in gentle strokes. Rotate the dough frequently to maintain an even thickness and prevent sticking.
Embrace the Art of Blind Baking
To blind bake, line the chilled dough with parchment paper, fill it with pie weights (or dry beans), and bake it in a preheated oven for a short period.
Temperature Control Matters
Preheat your oven to the specified temperature and place your pie on the centre rack. If the oven is too hot, the butter in the crust may melt too quickly, resulting in a greasy or tough crust.
Brushing with Precision
Brushing the crust with an egg wash or milk before baking adds colour and shine. To ensure an even coating, use a pastry brush and gently apply the wash to the entire surface of the crust.
Practice Patience
Once your pie is out of the oven, allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours, which allows the filling to set and the crust to fully develop its flakiness.
