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

American Heirloom Historical Occasion 4 Hours Or Less

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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Cheese Course Dietary Main Ingredient

Amazing Spinach Bacon Quiche

This incredible Spinach and Bacon Quiche recipe is a crowd-pleaser! I've combined the best elements from various quiche recipes to create a foolproof method for a perfectly golden, flavorful quiche every time. Easily customizable – swap out the spinach and bacon for your favorite ingredients to create endless variations! Get ready for flaky crust and a creamy, cheesy filling that will leave everyone wanting more. Pro-tip: use non-stick spray on your pie pan for effortless serving!

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High In Something Taste Mood Time To Make Main Dish

Anytime Quiche

Craving a delicious and effortless meal? This Anytime Quiche recipe is your new go-to! Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this versatile dish is ready in just 50 minutes. Customize it with your favorite leftover veggies and cheese – spinach and browned sausage are especially tasty! Adapted from the One Armed Chef cookbook, this recipe is a lifesaver when you're short on time and energy. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this simple yet satisfying quiche.

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Equipment Southwestern United States Appetizers Equipment

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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Course Apples Pies And Tarts Time To Make

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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Main Ingredient Apples Pies Course

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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Dietary Picnic Low Sodium Main Ingredient

Apple Crumb Pie

This Apple Crumb Pie recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Tired of ordinary crumb pies? This family favorite is so delicious, it's often requested for birthdays instead of cake. With a buttery, nutty crumb topping and a sweet, caramelized apple filling, it's the perfect dessert for your next family picnic, potluck, or special occasion. Get ready to wow your loved ones with this irresistible treat!

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Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Preparation

Apple Mini Tarts

These adorable Apple Mini Tarts are the perfect recipe for a fun-filled baking session with your little ones! Adapted from a mommy-and-me cooking class, this recipe is easy enough for kids to help with, resulting in delicious, individual-sized treats. Get ready for a sweet and memorable baking experience – perfect for weekend brunches, holiday gatherings, or an after-school delight!

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Weeknight Low Sodium Low In Something Desserts

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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Thanksgiving Served Cold Main Ingredient Seasonal

Apple Cranberry Crisp Pie

This Apple Cranberry Crisp Pie is the perfect fall dessert! Tart cranberries mingle beautifully with sweet apples in a buttery, crunchy crisp topping. A family favorite, this recipe's surprising flavor combination will become your new go-to autumn pie. Inspired by a newspaper coupon find, this recipe boasts a delightful balance of sweet and tart that will impress even cranberry skeptics!

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60 Minutes Or Less 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Preparation

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 4 Hours Or Less Bacon Time To Make

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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Pies And Tarts Course Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less

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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Pineapple Fruit Desserts No Cook

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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Low Carb Low Carb Breakfast Time To Make

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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Taste Mood Occasion Fruit Main Ingredient

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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Preparation Number Of Servings Equipment Time To Make

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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Desserts Oven Equipment European

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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