Classic All-Butter Pie Crust
chef Laya
A foolproof, flaky all-butter pie crust recipe made from scratch. Perfect for sweet pies, savory quiches, and tarts. This classic dough is easy to roll, tender, and holds its shape beautifully.
Prepr Time 20 minutes mins
Cooking Time 15 minutes mins
1 hour hr
ToTal Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins
- 2 ½ cups 315 g All-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Granulated sugar optional, omit for savory crusts
- 1 cup 225 g Unsalted butter, very cold and cubed
- ½ cup 120 ml Ice water (plus 1 ice cube)
- 1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar helps prevent toughness
Prepare the Ice Water: In a small measuring cup, drop in one ice cube and fill with cold water until you reach the ½ cup mark. Add the vinegar and set aside in the fridge.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl (or food processor), whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar until well combined.
Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter pieces remaining. (If using a food processor, pulse 10–12 times).
Add Liquid: Drizzle the ice water and vinegar mixture over the dough, 1 tablespoon at a time. Gently toss with a spatula or fork. Stop adding water when the dough begins to clump together and holds its shape when pinched. You may not need all the water.
Form the Dough: Turn the shaggy dough out onto a clean surface. Gently gather it together and divide it into two equal disks. Do not overwork or knead the dough.
Chill: Wrap each disk tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days) before rolling. This step is crucial for a flaky texture.
Roll and Bake: When ready to use, let the dough sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes. Roll out on a floured surface between two sheets of parchment paper. Use for your favorite pie recipe or blind bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
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Keep it Cold: The secret to a flaky crust is keeping the butter cold. If the dough gets warm while working, put it back in the fridge for 10 minutes.
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Gluten-Free Swap: To make this gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum.
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Storage: Raw dough disks can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling.