It’s almost 3.141592… Day! Also known as Pi day! Every year, on 3/14, we celebrate π - the mathematical constant that is the ratio of a circles diameter to its circumference. But eating pie is 3.14 times better than calculating areas or crunching equations. Pi kid you not, our pie recipes will blow your mind! Whether you’re in the mood for sweet, savory, tart, creamy or a little boozy – we got you covered. In addition, we’ve included some basic tips to make sure every pie you make is πRFECT!
5 basic pie baking tips
1. Cold dough leads to flaky crust
Cold dough leads to flaky crust. No matter if you’re using a homemade dough or from the box – mix up the dough and let it chill! Warm butter (fat) in your dough will melt quickly in the oven and mix with your other ingredients. On the other hand, cold butter (fat) in your dough will melt slower, eventually melting away to create tiny air pockets in the crust, which translates to FLAKY!
2. Start your pie on the bottom rack of your oven
Start your pie baking on the bottom rack, and finish it on the top rack. This will ensure the bottom crust cooks all the way through. It’s also easy to check the bottom crust if you have a glass pie dish. As my favorite British baker would say, “No soggy bottoms!” (Mary Berry, Great British Bake Off). You can add a simple egg wash to the top crust to give it a nice golden finish.
3. Aluminum foil on the pie edges
Avoid burnt edges of your pie with a bit of aluminum foil. If you notice the edges of your pie baking too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil. This will redirect the heat and slow the browning of your pie edges.
4. Holes on top crust
If your pie has crust on the top and bottom, cut holes in the top layer to allow steam to escape. This is super important for fillings with high moisture content, like fruits pies.
5. Thicken watery fillings
Thicken high-moisture fillings with flour, cornstarch, or tapioca starch. The thickeners will absorb moisture while your π is baking. You’ll end up with a crispy bottom, and picture-perfect slices!
Now that you know the basics it’s time to start baking!
Boston Organic Pie Recipes
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What are your baking tips and favorite pie recipes? Comment below!
