11 PAULA DEEN’S BEST CAKES & PIES
PIECRUST
Perfectioƕ
Preparing a piecrust from scratch is fast and
does not require any special equipment. Here, Paula
shows you her time-tested steps for achieving
a tender, fl aky crust, plus pretty ways to decorate
your piecrust. Then, turn the page for steps to
weave a lattice and helpful hints for crumb crusts.
Basic Piecrust
Makes 1 (8- to 10-inch) piecrust
2 1⁄3 cups all-purpose fl our
1 tablespoon sugar
½ teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
6 tablespoons cold all-vegetable shortening,
cubed
8 tablespoons ice water
- In a large bowl, whisk together fl our, sugar,
and salt. Using a pastry blender, cut in butter
and shortening until mixture is crumbly. Using
a fork, stir in ice water 1 tablespoon at a time just
until mixture comes together and starts to form
a ball. (You may not need to use all the water.)
- Turn out dough onto a lightly fl oured surface, and
gently knead just until dough holds together. Shape
into a disk, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for
1 hour. - Let dough stand at room temperature for 10 to
15 minutes. On a lightly fl oured surface, roll dough
to a 12-inch circle. Press into bottom and up sides of
a regular or deep-dish 8- to 10-inch pie plate.
Trim excess dough. Fold edges under, and crimp
as desired.