Best All Butter Pie Crust Recipe

Introduction

This best all butter pie crust recipe yields a rich, flaky pastry that’s perfect for any pie filling. Made with simple ingredients and a straightforward method, it’s an essential base for your favorite desserts.

Ingredients

• ½ cup (4 oz/115 g) Salted Plugrà® Premium European Style butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1¼ cups (6¼ oz/177 g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cream the softened butter and sugar together using an electric hand mixer on high speed for 2 minutes, or until light and fluffy. You can also use a hand whisk for this step.
2. Step 2: Beat in the egg until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
3. Step 3: Turn the mixer to low and mix in the flour and salt until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough.
4. Step 4: Shape the dough into a flat disc and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 2 days, before using. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and defrost overnight in the refrigerator.
5. Step 5: On a floured surface, roll out the pastry to ¼ inch thick. Press into your pie pan, crimp the edges, and fill with your desired pie filling such as pumpkin, pecan, or chocolate silk.

Tips & Variations

• For a more tender crust, avoid over-mixing once the flour is added to keep the dough flaky.
• If you don’t have Plugrà butter, use a good quality European-style butter with similar fat content.
• Chilling the dough properly is key to prevent shrinkage and maintain a flaky texture.
• Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a subtle flavor enhancement if you’re making a sweet pie.

Storage

Store the dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the dough for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. After baking, leftover pie crust can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days. Reheat slightly before serving to refresh the texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

This recipe calls for salted butter to enhance flavor. If using unsalted butter, add a pinch more salt to the dough to balance the taste.

How do I prevent the pie crust from shrinking?

Chill the dough thoroughly before rolling and avoid stretching it when placing into the pan. Also, allow the dough to rest in the pan in the fridge before baking to reduce shrinkage.