My grandmother’s pie crust recipe has been in the family for years. It was in an old ledger book that she had written her recipes in.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients
   • Cut the cold butter into small cubes and place it back in the fridge until ready to use.
   • Fill a small bowl with ice water to have it ready for the dough.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar (if using).
3. Cut in the Butter
   • Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingers, work the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter.
4. Add the Ice Water
   • Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork after each addition.
   • Stop adding water once the dough starts coming together but isn’t too wet or sticky.
5. Form the Dough
   • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and bring it together with your hands.
   • Divide it into two equal portions, shape each into a disk, and wrap in plastic wrap.
   • Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).
6. Roll Out and Use
   • Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to fit your pie pan.
   • Carefully transfer it to the pan, trim any excess, and crimp the edges.
   • If using for a baked crust, prick the bottom with a fork and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden.
   • If filling the crust, follow your pie recipe’s baking instructions.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pie Crust

✔ Use very cold butter and ice water – This keeps the crust flaky.
✔ Don’t overwork the dough – Too much handling can make it tough.
✔ Chill before rolling – This prevents shrinkage during baking.
✔ Use parchment and pie weights when blind baking – Keeps the crust from puffing up.

A Recipe That Lives On

This pie crust recipe isn’t just about making the perfect flaky base for your favorite pie—it’s about tradition, memories, and the love passed down through generations. Every time I make it, I feel connected to my grandmother and the countless family meals where her pies were the star of the table.

Now, I hope it becomes part of your family’s tradition too. Happy baking!

Would you like me to add any personal touches or variations? 😊