Best Way To Keep Pie Crust From Burning
There is nothing more frustrating than spending time and effort making a delicious pie, only to have the crust come out burned. No one wants to serve a pie with a blackened crust, but fear not, there are ways to keep your pie crust from burning. Here are some tips that will help you achieve the perfect golden crust every time.
Use a Pie Shield
A pie shield is a simple but effective tool that can be used to prevent the edges of your pie crust from burning. It is a circular piece of metal or silicone that fits over the edge of your pie crust. The shield will block the heat from reaching the edges of the crust, while still allowing the filling to cook properly. You can also make your own pie shield by cutting a circle of foil and folding it in half, then cutting a small hole in the center to allow steam to escape.
Cover the Edges with Foil
If you don't have a pie shield, you can use foil to cover the edges of your crust. Simply tear a piece of foil that is long enough to wrap around the edges of your pie crust, fold it in half lengthwise, and then wrap it around the edges of the pie. Make sure to press the foil down firmly against the crust to prevent it from slipping off. This will create a barrier that will protect the edges of your crust from burning.
Bake the Pie on a Lower Rack
If your oven tends to run hot, you may want to consider baking your pie on a lower rack. This will keep the heat from directly hitting the top of the pie crust, which can cause it to burn. By lowering the pie, you are giving the crust a chance to cook more evenly and prevent it from getting too brown on top.
Use a Glass Pie Dish
A glass pie dish can help prevent your crust from burning because it heats more slowly and evenly than metal. This means that the heat will be distributed more evenly across the entire pie, preventing hot spots that can cause the crust to burn. Additionally, a glass dish allows you to see the bottom of your crust, making it easier to determine when it is fully cooked.
Brush the Crust with Milk or Egg Wash
Brushing your pie crust with milk or egg wash can help prevent it from burning. The milk or egg will create a barrier on the surface of the crust that will protect it from direct heat. Additionally, the milk or egg will give your crust a nice golden color and a shiny appearance.
Reduce the Oven Temperature
If none of the above tips work, you may need to reduce the oven temperature. A lower temperature will allow the pie to cook more slowly, giving the crust a chance to cook without burning. Keep in mind that lowering the temperature may also increase the baking time, so be sure to adjust accordingly.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can prevent your pie crust from burning and achieve a perfect golden crust every time. Whether you use a pie shield, cover the edges with foil, bake the pie on a lower rack, use a glass pie dish, brush the crust with milk or egg wash, or reduce the oven temperature, there are many ways to achieve a beautifully baked pie crust.
