Flaky All-Butter Pie Crust: A Baker's Best Friend

Baking a pie? This flaky pie crust recipe is your answer! Easy and reliable, even beginners can achieve buttery, delicious results. Get my tips for the perfect bake!

June 4, 2025
By Mia Westlake.

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Recipe Introduction

Ever wondered what the secret to a truly amazing pie is? honestly, it all starts with the crust! this isn't just any old pie crust recipe ; it's the foundation for baking greatness.

It's the flaky all-butter pie crust , and it's about to become your best friend in the kitchen.

A Little Bit of History, a Whole Lotta Flavor

Pie crust recipe has been around for ages, you know? it’s basically culinary history and this one is a riff on the classic techniques.

It's steeped in tradition, going back centuries. this version? it’s all about that rich, buttery flavour. we use an all-butter method.

It takes a bit of patience, but believe me, it’s worth it.

Is This Pie Crust Recipe Right for You?

This recipe isn't rocket science, but it's not instant ramen either. i'd say it's a medium difficulty, a bit fiddly.

You'll need roughly 20 mins to prep and maybe 20- 30 minutes for the baking. plus, give it an hour or two in the fridge to chill, minimum.

This pie crust recipe makes enough for one 9-inch pie, top and bottom.

Why This Pie Crust Recipe is a Winner

Honestly? it's the flakiness! this flakey pie crust recipe is amazing and it is so satisfying to see those layers separate perfectly.

But beyond that, it just tastes good . with flaky pie crust recipe easy like this, you're in for a treat.

But if you have special requirements you can even try the best gluten-free piecrust , coconut flour pie crust , coconut oil pie crust or even healthy pie crust if you have different needs.

It's perfect for everything from apple pie to quiche. it's perfect for thanksgiving, christmas, or that random tuesday when you just need some comfort food.

What makes this special? cold butter, some skill and you get pie perfection. i swear!

So, now that you're drooling, let's dive into the ingredient list.

Alright, let's dive into what you need to make the flakey pie crust recipe of your dreams. it all starts with quality ingredients and having the right tools.

Trust me, even a dodgy oven can be overcome with a good foundation!

Flaky All-Butter Pie Crust: A Baker's Best Friend Recipe Card

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Preparation time:20 Mins

Cooking time:25 Mins

Servings:8 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, very cold, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 6-8 tablespoons (90-120ml) ice water
• 1 large egg, beaten (optional)
• 1 tablespoon milk or water (optional)

Instructions:

• In a food processor or large bowl, pulse or whisk together flour and salt.
• Cut in cold butter using a food processor or pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Pieces of butter should still be visible. Important: Don't over-process!
• Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing or mixing until the dough just comes together. Don't add all the water at once; you may not need it all!
• Gently form the dough into a disc. Divide in half if making a double-crust pie.
• Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days). This allows the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up, resulting in a flakier crust.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter.
• Carefully transfer the dough to the pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges as desired.
• If pre-baking, prick the bottom of the crust with a fork and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Weigh down the crust with pie weights or dried beans to prevent shrinking.
• Add your desired filling and bake according to the filling recipe's instructions. If not pre-baking, add filling now and adjust baking time accordingly. For a golden crust, brush with egg wash before baking. Bake until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
• Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:350 calories

Fat:25g

Fiber:1g

Recipe Info

Category:Baking

Cuisine:American

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients

Here’s the lowdown. We're talking about a flaky pie crust recipe easy enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough for Sunday lunch.

• All-Purpose Flour: 2 1/2 cups (315g) .
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (5g) . Just regular table salt will do.
• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (227g) .
• Ice Water: 6-8 tablespoons (90-120ml) .

Quality indicators: the butter is key. get the good stuff! european-style butter, if you can. you want it really cold.

I'm talking practically frozen, people. i swear it makes a world of difference! also, for the flour, just use plain flour unless you want to experiment.

Seasoning Notes

Okay, this is where we can get a little creative. But for a basic pie crust recipe , keep it simple.

• Essential Spice Combinations: A tiny pinch of nutmeg can be nice in a sweet pie crust, but it's optional.
• Flavor Enhancers and Aromatics: Vanilla extract is nice but not necessary.
• Quick Substitution Options: Don't have salt? You're in trouble but just go to the store and get some. Kidding just use table salt if that is all you have.

Honestly, this pie crust recipe, inspired by things I've seen from Pie Crust Recipe Martha Stewart and Natasha's Kitchen Pie Crust , is about the texture , not the spices.

Equipment Needed

Right, what do you actually need to make this happen?

• Essential Tools Only: Rolling pin, large mixing bowl, plastic wrap, 9-inch pie plate.
• Common Household Alternatives: If you don't have a proper rolling pin, a clean wine bottle will do in a pinch! And if you don't have a pie plate.

Honestly, you don't need anything too fancy. A fork to prick the crust before baking is fine as well, I always use a fork.

I swear, once you nail this pie crust recipe , you'll be making pies for every occasion. from christmas to birthdays.

And everyone will think you are some kind of culinary genius, no one needs to know how truly easy a pie crust recipe easy is!

Alright, let's dive into making a proper pie crust! it's easier than you think, promise. forget shop-bought pastry, we're going all-out homemade.

It might seem a bit daunting. honestly? once you nail it, you'll feel like a baking boss. we're talking flakey perfection.

Pie Crust Perfection: Your Step-by-Step Guide

This flakey pie crust recipe is a game-changer. Think of all the delicious pies you can make. Apple, cherry, chicken... the possibilities are endless.

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

Before we even think about flour, let's get organised. It's all about the mise en place, you know?

• Essential Mise en Place : Measure out your flour (315g), salt (5g). Cube the butter (227g) and get the ice water (90-120ml) ready. Everything needs to be cold .
• Time-Saving Organization Tips : I like to chill my butter and flour before I start. It makes a huge difference. Trust me.
• Safety Reminders : Watch those fingers when you're using a food processor. Nobody wants a trip to A&E.

Step-by-Step Process: The Magic Happens

Right, here's where the magic happens. Follow these steps and you'll be golden.

1. Combine Flour and Salt: Mix flour (315g) and salt (5g). A food processor makes it easier.
2. Cut in the Butter: Add cold cubed butter (227g). Pulse until it looks like coarse breadcrumbs.
3. Add Ice Water: Drizzle in ice water (90-120ml), a tablespoon at a time. Mix until dough just comes together.
4. Form and Chill Dough: Gently form the dough into a disc. Wrap it in cling film. Chill for at least 1 hour.
5. Roll and Transfer: Roll out the dough on a floured surface. Transfer to a 9-inch pie plate.
6. Trim and Crimp: Trim the edges. Crimp them for a fancy look.

Pro Tips: Secrets from a (Slightly Obsessed) Baker

These tips will take your pie crust recipe to the next level.

• Use cold butter and ice water. Cold is key.
• Don't overwork the dough. Seriously .
• Chill, chill, chill. 1- 2 hours is the sweet spot.
• Common Mistakes to Avoid : Overmixing the dough. Using warm butter. Skipping the chilling time. Don't do it!

Honestly, making your own pie crust is so rewarding. and this flakey pie crust recipe easy is so delicious. this recipe will also work great to create coconut oil pie crust , oil pie crust , and even a best gluten-free piecrust using alternative ingredients.

You can even check a pie crust recipe martha stewart or natasha’s kitchen pie crust for extra guidance. what are you waiting for? get baking!

I hope you find this tutorial to be as great as the final product.

Okay, let's dive into those extra bits that make a pie crust recipe truly shine! These recipe notes are like the secret sauce that elevates your pie from "meh" to "OMG, can I have another slice?"

Recipe Notes for Pie Perfection

Serving Suggestions That'll Wow

Right, you've slaved over this masterpiece, so let's present it like a pro! think about the colours. a simple dusting of icing sugar adds a touch of elegance.

Honestly, a sprig of mint can make all the difference.

Complementary sides? vanilla ice cream is a classic for a reason. but a dollop of freshly whipped cream? divine! and for the brave souls, a sliver of sharp cheddar with apple pie.

Trust me, it's a british thing, and it works . drinks-wise, a cuppa (obviously!), or even a chilled glass of dessert wine hits the spot.

Storage Tips: Keepin' It Fresh

So, you've got leftovers? lucky you! this flakey pie crust recipe easy to store. if it's just for a day or two, the fridge is your friend.

Wrap it tightly in cling film to stop it drying out.

Freezing? absolutely! wrap the baked pie (or unbaked crust) really well in foil, then bag it. it will last for up to 2-3 months.

Just let it thaw completely before reheating. talking of reheating, a low oven (about 300° f/ 150° c) for 15- 20 minutes should do the trick.

Variations: Mix It Up!

Fancy a change? let's get creative! for a best gluten-free piecrust , use a decent gluten-free flour blend. coconut oil pie crust is another option for an interesting twist.

Healthy pie crust ? try incorporating more whole wheat flour.

Or why not get seasonal? swapping apples for berries in summer? genius! rhubarb in spring? even better! let the seasons be your guide! maybe you're thinking of a coconut flour pie crust .

Just be aware, you will probably need to adjust the recipe as coconut flour absorbs more liquid than other flours.

Nutrition Basics: A Little Honesty

Look, this is pie. it's not exactly a health food! but let's be real, it's about balance, innit? you can use oil pie crust to reduce the amount of butter or consider using whole wheat.

It contains butter, flour, and maybe some sugar, so moderate calories. but hey, a little bit of what you fancy does you good! fiber from the wheat and some vitamins, maybe even some calcium? who knows? enjoy your piece, because it is worth it.

And for the love of pie, if you are making this with natasha’s kitchen pie crust recipe or even pie crust recipe martha stewart you are in good hands!

Alright, that's your lot! Go forth and bake! Don't be scared to mess up. Honestly, even when it all goes wrong, you can still learn something. Now, where's my fork?