Baking Ingredient | Vegetarian

Pie Crust

Triticum aestivum Allergens: Wheat
pie crust

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Poaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Western
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Wheat flour, Animal fat/Vegetable shortening

The Forktionary Angle

"Unlocking the secrets to the perfect flaky pie crust, every time."

Definition

The base of a pie, typically made from flour, fat, water, and salt, forming a flaky or crumbly shell.

Sensory Profile

TasteButtery, Mildly Salty
TextureFlaky, Crumbly, Tender
AromaMild, Baked Grain
AcidityNeutral

Technical Metrics

Storage Tip

Unbaked dough can be frozen for up to 3 months, wrapped tightly.

Technique Tip

Overworking the dough develops gluten, leading to a tough crust.

Usage Tip

Blind baking prevents a soggy bottom for custard or fruit pies.

Nutrition Facts

Per 1/8 of 9-inch crust (60g)
Calories390 kcal
Total Fat22 g
Saturated Fat10 g
Trans Fat0.1 g
Cholesterol10 mg
Protein6 g
Total Carbohydrate42 g
Dietary Fiber2 g
Total Sugars1 g
Calcium10 mg
Iron1 mg
Potassium90 mg

Chef’s Secret

For a truly flaky pie crust, ensure your fat (butter, shortening) is very cold and handle the dough as little as possible to prevent gluten development.

Substitutions

Best Match

Puff Pastry

1:1 (by area)

Excellent for savory or sweet pies, offers a distinct layered texture.

Phyllo Dough

1:1 (by area)

Very thin, crispy layers; requires more work but lighter texture.

Graham Cracker Crust

1:1 (by weight, adjust to fit)

Ideal for no-bake pies, adds a sweet, crumbly base.

Crushed Pretzel Crust

1:1 (by weight, adjust to fit)

Adds a salty, crunchy contrast, great for sweet and savory applications.

Buying Guide

Look for unbaked crusts with minimal artificial ingredients or trans fats.

Flavor Pairings

Fruit fillings Savory fillings (chicken pot pie) Custards Chocolates

Recipes Using Pie Crust

Vegetarian Cuisine Equipment Inexpensive

25 Pumpkin Pie

Unleash your inner baker with this exceptional pumpkin pie recipe! Our unique baking method ensures a flawlessly crisp crust, complementing a subtly spiced pumpkin filling that's not overly sweet. This isn't your grandma's pumpkin pie – it's an elevated experience that's guaranteed to impress. Discover the secret to a perfectly balanced pie, with a crust that's as delightful as the creamy, spiced filling. Get ready to wow your friends and family!

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Pies And Tarts Preparation Holiday Event Gifts

Angela's Chocolate Cream Pie

Comfort in every bite! This decadent chocolate cream pie is the perfect ending to any meal, especially when celebrating a new arrival or offering solace during difficult times. Rich, creamy chocolate filling, made from scratch, is poured into a buttery pie crust and chilled to perfection. A dollop of cool whip adds the ideal touch. This recipe is guaranteed to bring warmth and happiness to any gathering.

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Lunch Lunch Oven Time To Make

Appetizer Cheese Tart

This award-winning cheese tart recipe, a Pillsbury Bake-Off champion from 1998, is now even lighter and easier to customize! We've halved the mayonnaise for a healthier twist, and you're free to add your favorite toppings to create a truly unique appetizer. Perfect for parties or a simple weeknight snack, this cheesy delight boasts a golden-brown crust and a creamy, flavorful filling. Get ready to impress!

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Time To Make Fruit Preparation Desserts

Apple Crostata With Caramel Sauce

This rustic Apple Crostata recipe is a delightful twist on classic apple pie! Using a store-bought pie crust, this dessert comes together quickly, perfect for a weeknight treat or a weekend baking project. Thinly sliced Jonagold apples (about 2 medium, yielding 4 cups) create a beautifully textured filling, complemented by a rich and decadent salted caramel sauce. Easy to make, yet impressive to serve, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

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Fruit Main Ingredient Apples Fruit

Apple Crumb Deep Dish Pie

This irresistible Apple Crumb Deep Dish Pie recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Using a flaky homemade crust (or store-bought for convenience), this recipe delivers a warm, comforting, and perfectly spiced apple filling topped with a buttery, crunchy crumb topping. Get ready for the ultimate autumn dessert! Prep time excludes crust preparation.

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4 Hours Or Less Low Sodium Pies Low In Something

Apple Pie With Walnut Streusel

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with this irresistible Apple Pie featuring a crunchy walnut streusel topping! This classic dessert is perfect for Thanksgiving, autumn gatherings, or a cozy night in. The flaky crust, sweet apples, and nutty streusel combine to create a truly unforgettable treat. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.

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Cuisine Holiday Event Desserts Pies And Tarts

Apple Pumpkin Pie

This irresistible Apple Pumpkin Pie recipe, inspired by a classic spice blend, combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin and the delightful sweetness of apples for a truly unforgettable autumn dessert. Easy to follow instructions and precise measurements ensure baking success every time!

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Time To Make Fruit Pies Apples

Apple Date And Pecan Pie

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of autumn with this Apple Date & Pecan Pie! Sweet, tart apples mingle with chewy dates and crunchy pecans in a rich, buttery crust. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a show-stopping dessert perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday gatherings, or a cozy night in. Get ready for a taste of fall perfection!

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Course Desserts Preparation Pies And Tarts

Apple Pear Crumble Pie

This Thanksgiving-ready Apple Pear Crumble Pie is a crowd-pleaser! Inspired by a Kraft Foods & Family Magazine recipe, this easy dessert boasts a creamy cream cheese base, sweet and tart fruit filling, and a buttery, crunchy crumble topping. Perfect for potlucks or a cozy night in, this recipe is easily adaptable to the amount of fruit you have on hand. Skip the pumpkin pie this year and try this delicious alternative!

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Equipment Preparation 4 Hours Or Less Eggs Dairy

Artichoke And Sun Dried Tomato Quiche

This delightful Artichoke and Sun-Dried Tomato Quiche is a flavor explosion! A creamy, cheesy filling bursting with artichoke hearts, juicy sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all baked in a flaky crust. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to follow instructions and stunning results!

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Casseroles Course Served Hot Served Cold

Asparagus Mushroom Bacon Quiche

Elevate your leftover vegetables into a stunning Asparagus, Mushroom & Bacon Quiche! This savory masterpiece is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light supper. Crisp pastry crust cradles a creamy egg custard brimming with tender asparagus, earthy mushrooms, and smoky bacon. Pair with a fresh salad and a glass of crisp white wine for a truly memorable meal.

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Nuts Pies 60 Minutes Or Less Course

Aunt Helens Pecan Pie

This isn't your grandma's pecan pie! Aunt Helen's recipe boasts a deliciously unique twist – it's delightfully less sweet than traditional pecan pies, using about half the sugar. A family heirloom recipe, this pie delivers rich pecan flavor without the cloying sweetness. Get ready for rave reviews! The filling should have a slight jiggle in the center when finished, ensuring a perfect balance of set and gooey texture. Baking time may vary depending on your oven; see instructions for details.

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Pies And Tarts Thanksgiving Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less

Auntie's Pumpkin Pie

This pumpkin pie recipe is a family heirloom, requested by my nephew for every holiday and special occasion! We love experimenting with different crusts – ginger cookie and shortbread are particular favorites. My secret? Adding whipping cream to the filling mellows out the warm spices beautifully, creating a luxuriously smooth and flavorful pie that's sure to impress. Get ready to experience pumpkin pie perfection!

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Pies North American Southern United States Fruit

Baby's Millionaire Pie

Indulge in this No-Bake Baby's Millionaire Pie! Cool, creamy, and bursting with tropical pineapple, crunchy pecans, and a luscious Cool Whip topping. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any occasion and requires minimal cooking time!

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60 Minutes Or Less Equipment Oven 60 Minutes Or Less

Bacon Sausage And Cheese Breakfast Casserole

Start your Christmas morning with this incredibly easy and delicious breakfast casserole! A flaky crescent roll crust is topped with savory bacon, juicy sausage, and melty cheese, then baked to golden perfection. This make-ahead recipe is perfect for a relaxed holiday morning.

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Romantic Desserts Easy Pies And Tarts

Bananas Foster Tart

This award-winning Bananas Foster Tart recipe, a $2000 prize winner at the 38th Pillsbury Bake-off, is a decadent masterpiece! Imagine a flaky crust cradling a luscious layer of caramelized bananas, pecans, and a rich, creamy brown sugar sauce. This irresistible dessert is guaranteed to impress—it vanished from the office before 11 am! Easily adaptable with your favorite pie crust recipe. Prepare to be amazed by the perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors.

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Pies Weeknight Dietary Equipment

Best Ever Pumpkin Pie

Indulge in the ultimate Thanksgiving tradition with our Best Ever Southern Pumpkin Pie recipe! This creamy, spiced pumpkin pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfected for Southern living and always a highlight of Thanksgiving dinner. Get ready to experience the rich, comforting flavors of fall with every delicious bite!

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Cuisine Time To Make Occasion Main Ingredient

Sour Cream Pie

This delightful twist on a classic sour cream pie is bursting with tart cranberries and a creamy, dreamy filling. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday gathering, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and sure to impress your guests with its vibrant color and unforgettable flavor. Get ready to experience a holiday dessert sensation!

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