"The Ultimate Guide to a Flaky Pie Crust Recipe Made with Crisco: Perfect for All Your Favorite Pies!"

#### Pie Crust Recipe Made with CriscoWhen it comes to baking, a good pie crust is the foundation of any delicious pie. In this guide, we will explore the p……

#### Pie Crust Recipe Made with Crisco

When it comes to baking, a good pie crust is the foundation of any delicious pie. In this guide, we will explore the pie crust recipe made with Crisco, which is a favorite among many bakers for its ease and reliability. Crisco, a brand of shortening, is known for producing a flaky and tender crust that can elevate your pies to the next level. Whether you're making a classic apple pie, a rich chocolate cream pie, or a savory quiche, this recipe will serve you well.

#### Why Choose Crisco for Your Pie Crust?

Crisco is a popular choice for pie crusts because it has a higher fat content than butter, which contributes to a flaky texture. Unlike butter, which can create a denser crust if not handled properly, Crisco allows for a more forgiving dough that is easier to roll out. Additionally, Crisco has a neutral flavor, which means it won't overpower the filling of your pie. This makes it an excellent option for both sweet and savory pies.

#### Ingredients You Will Need

To make the pie crust recipe made with Crisco, you'll need the following ingredients:

- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

- 1 cup Crisco shortening

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional for sweet pies)

- 6 to 8 tablespoons cold water

These simple ingredients come together to create a versatile pie crust that you can use for any occasion.

#### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar (if using). Whisk them together to ensure they are well mixed.

2. **Cut in Crisco**: Add the Crisco shortening to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the shortening into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You want to see small pea-sized pieces of Crisco throughout the mixture.

3. **Add Cold Water**: Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork after each addition. Stop adding water once the dough holds together but is not sticky. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough crust.

4. **Chill the Dough**: Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out.

5. **Roll Out the Dough**: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Transfer it to a pie pan, trimming the edges as necessary. Repeat with the second disk if you're making a double-crust pie.

6. **Pre-Bake (if needed)**: Depending on your pie filling, you may need to pre-bake the crust. To do this, prick the bottom of the crust with a fork and bake it at 425°F (220°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.

#### Tips for the Perfect Pie Crust

- **Keep Everything Cold**: Make sure your Crisco and water are cold. This will help create a flaky texture.

- **Don’t Overwork the Dough**: Handle the dough as little as possible to avoid developing gluten, which can make the crust tough.

- **Use a Pie Weights**: If you are pre-baking your crust, consider using pie weights or dried beans to prevent it from puffing up.

#### Conclusion

Now that you have a detailed understanding of the pie crust recipe made with Crisco, you're ready to impress your friends and family with your baking skills. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also yields a deliciously flaky crust that will complement any filling you choose. So gather your ingredients and start baking your favorite pies today!