Are you ready to elevate your pies from ordinary to extraordinary? Forget store-bought crusts; this cinnamon sugar pie crust recipe is the key to unlocking a whole new level of deliciousness. The delicate crunch of the crust, infused with the warm aroma of cinnamon and sugar, will transform your favorite pie filling into a truly unforgettable dessert. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this easy recipe is perfect for adding a homemade touch to your next gathering. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ½ cup ice water
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and granulated sugar. This ensures even distribution of sweetness throughout your crust.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter
Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Work quickly to prevent the butter from melting. The colder the butter, the flakier your crust will be. This is a key element to achieving a truly delicious pie.
Step 3: Add Ice Water
Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing lightly with a fork. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to come together just enough to form a ball. Overmixing will result in a tough crust.
Step 4: Incorporate Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, combine the remaining granulated sugar and cinnamon. Once the dough is formed, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a flat disc. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the dough. Fold the dough over itself a few times to distribute the cinnamon sugar throughout.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a more tender crust. Chilling is crucial for easy handling.
Step 6: Roll and Bake (or use for your pie!)
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to your desired thickness. You can use this crust for any pie, but it’s especially delightful with apple, pumpkin, or pecan fillings. For a simple cinnamon sugar tart, simply bake the rolled-out crust until golden brown.
Tips for Success:
- Use cold ingredients: Cold butter and ice water are essential for a flaky crust.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing develops the gluten, resulting in a tough crust.
- Chill the dough: Chilling allows the gluten to relax and prevents shrinkage during baking.
- Bake at the right temperature: Adjust baking time depending on your oven and desired level of crispness.
Variations:
- Brown Sugar Cinnamon: Replace some of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- Spiced Crust: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth.
- Nutty Crust: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the dough for added texture and flavor. This pairs especially well with pecan pie!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your pie and the filling. As a general guideline, a serving of this pie crust alone will contain approximately:
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Sugar: 5-8g
This cinnamon sugar pie crust recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a simple way to elevate your baking game and impress your friends and family with delicious homemade goodness. Enjoy!