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How to make the perfect lattice pie crust
There’s nothing quite as comforting and delicious as a slice of warm, fresh pie. Whether it’s apple, pecan, or rhubarb, pie is a staple on holiday tables and a treat any time of year. The perfect lattice pie crust adds a touch of elegance to your pie, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. If you’ve always wanted to make a beautiful lattice crust but were intimidated by the process, fear not! With a little practice and the right techniques, you can easily master the art of making a lattice pie crust that will impress your family and friends. In this article, we’ll take you step-by-step through making the perfect lattice pie crust.
Step 1: Prepare the pie crust
The first step in making a lattice pie crust is to prepare the pie crust. Start by dividing your dough into two equal balls. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a circle about ½ inch wider than the diameter of your pie pan. Rolling the dough on parchment paper can make the process easier and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Chill the pie crust
Once you’ve rolled out the dough, place both the rolled-out pie shell dough and the lattice crust dough in the refrigerator. Let the lattice dough chill for at least 15 to 20 minutes. This will make the dough more resilient and easier to work with.
Step 3: Cut the lattice strips
Now it’s time to cut the lattice strips. With the cooled dough on a smooth surface, use a butter knife, pizza cutter, or pastry wheel to cut the dough into even strips. A strip width of 3/4 inch is ideal for beginners. Make sure the strips are easy to lift and separate.
Step 4: Fill the Pie and Place the Strips
Remove the other disk of pie dough from the refrigerator and fill your pie pan with the filling of your choice. Gently press the dough into place and fold it slightly over the edge. Start laying the cut strips of lattice crust over the filling. Lay them parallel to each other, leaving an equal amount of space between each strip.
Step 5: Create the lattice pattern
To create the lattice pattern, fold half of the laid lattice strips back so that every other strip rests lightly on itself. Then place a strip of dough perpendicular to the first row, just off-center. Fold the folded strips back into place and fold the strips that didn’t touch over the perpendicular strip. Repeat this process until you reach the edge of the pie.
Step 6: Repeat on opposite side
Congratulations! You have completed half of your lattice pie crust. Now turn the pie over and repeat the process on the other side. Continue folding and laying perpendicular strips until the lattice covers the entire pie.
Step 7: Assemble the crusts
The lattice strips should hang about ½ inch over the edge of the pie pan. You can either trim the excess lattice to the edge of the pan and fold the bottom crust up, or fold the lattice strips down over the edge and crimp them with a fork or your fingers. Dabbing the crust with water at the junction points will help hold the crust together.
Step 8: Apply the egg wash
For the final touch, apply an egg wash to your lattice crust. Whisk one egg and two tablespoons of water together to make the egg wash solution. Lightly brush the exposed crust with the egg wash to add shine and texture. You can use a pastry brush or a clean cloth for this step.
And there you have it! You’ve successfully created a perfect lattice pie crust. Now it’s time to bake your pie and enjoy the delicious results. Remember to share your masterpiece with family and friends, and be prepared for compliments!
With a little practice, making a lattice pie crust will become second nature. So go ahead and experiment with different fillings, flavors, and designs. The possibilities are endless, and every lattice pie crust you make will be a work of edible art.
Happy baking!
FAQS
Is it difficult to make a lattice pie crust?
While it may seem intimidating at first, making a lattice pie crust is not as difficult as it seems. With practice and following the proper techniques, you can easily create a beautiful lattice pattern for your pie.
What type of pie dough works best for a lattice crust?
Any pie dough recipe will work for a lattice crust. Whether you prefer a butter-based dough or a shortening-based dough, the key is to make sure the dough is properly cooled before rolling and cutting the lattice strips.
Can I use a lattice crust for any type of pie?
Absolutely! A lattice crust can be used for any type of pie that has a filling of a similar texture. Whether it’s a classic apple pie, a tart cherry pie, or a sweet peach pie, a lattice crust adds a beautiful decorative touch.
How do I keep my lattice crust from shrinking or sagging during baking?
To prevent your lattice crust from shrinking or sagging, make sure the strips are not stretched too tightly when placing them over the filling. Also, cooling the assembled pie before baking can help the lattice hold its shape.
Can I make a lattice crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can make a lattice crust ahead of time. After assembling the lattice on top of the pie, you can cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake. This can be convenient if you want to make the pie ahead of time.
Can I freeze a cake with a lattice crust?
Absolutely! If you want to freeze a pie with a lattice crust, it’s best to freeze it before baking. Place the lattice on top of the pie, cover well, and place in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, simply transfer the frozen pie directly to the oven.