Perfect Pie Crust

Let's talk about pie crust.

Pie is really easy to make.  You don't have to worry about it falling or rising too much.  You don't usually have to sift ingredients.  You don't have to put batch after batch into the oven.  So, it seems pretty clear that pie is just about the easiest thing you can bake.

One thing that always got in my way of making pie was the crust.  Most of the time, I bought frozen Pilsbury crust which is not bad, but it did feel a little bit like cheating.  Plus, I have a bit of a reputation to uphold.  I always feel a little embarrassed when I tell people that I didn't make the crust.  People kind of assume that being a food blogger, everything I ever eat is a culinary masterpiece accompanied by lots of pictures.  It's not.

Now, after finally perfecting this pie crust recipe, I don't have to feel so embarrassed!

Pie crust should be flaky and buttery and golden brown.  It should not be chewy or doughy or black.  The secret to a flaky pie crust is the vinegar (trust me, you won't taste it at all).  And this crust has plenty of butter, don't worry about that.  Now all you have to do is watch it while it cooks and cover the edges if it starts to get too brown.

So now pie can be easy and 100% homemade!


PERFECT PIE CRUST
3 c. flour
1 tsp. sugar
1 tsp. salt
1 c. cold butter, cubed
1 egg
1/3 c. cold water + 2-3 Tbsp. if needed
1 tsp. distilled white vinegar

1.  In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar and salt.

2.  Using a pastry cutter, add in butter until you have coarse crumbles.

3.  With a fork, beat together egg, 1/3 c. cold water and vinegar.  Mix the egg mixture into the flour mixture using your hands.  If you need to, add a little of the extra cold water.  Do not over-mix - this will create a tough, chewy crust.

4.  On a lightly floured surface, divide the dough into 2 rounds.  Wrap tightly in plastic wrap.  Refrigerate at least 1 hour, or freeze for up to 3 weeks.

5.  When you're ready to use the dough, roll it out on a lightly floured surface.  Follow the instructions in the pie recipe for cooking directions.

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