America's Test Kitchen Pie Crust Recipe With Vodka
Introduction
Are you tired of making pie crusts that turn out tough and dry? Look no further than the America's Test Kitchen pie crust recipe with vodka. This recipe promises a flaky and tender crust every time, thanks to the addition of a surprising ingredient: vodka.
Ingredients
For the crust, you will need:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 12 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into 1/4-inch pieces and chilled
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening, chilled
- 1/4 cup vodka, chilled
- 1/4 cup cold water
For the filling, you can use any fruit or custard recipe of your choice.
Instructions
1. In a food processor, pulse together the flour, salt, and sugar until combined.
2. Add the butter and shortening and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse sand, about 10 seconds.
3. Add the vodka and water and pulse until the dough comes together, about 10 more seconds.
4. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 45 minutes.
5. Roll out one disc on a floured surface to fit your pie dish. Add the filling of your choice.
6. Roll out the second disc and place it on top of the filling. Trim the edges and crimp them together.
7. Bake according to your filling recipe's instructions.
Why Vodka?
You might be wondering why vodka is used in this pie crust recipe. The answer is simple: alcohol. When combined with flour, alcohol prevents gluten from forming, which is what causes a tough and chewy crust. Vodka is ideal because it's flavorless and evaporates quickly during baking, leaving behind a flaky and tender crust.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your pie crust turns out perfectly:
- Chill all ingredients and utensils before starting.
- Handle the dough as little as possible to prevent gluten formation.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface, rotating it often to ensure an even thickness.
- Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter to trim the edges.
- Brush the top of the crust with an egg wash for a golden brown finish.
Conclusion
If you're looking for a foolproof pie crust recipe, look no further than America's Test Kitchen's recipe with vodka. Not only is it easy to make, but it promises a flaky and tender crust every time. Give it a try and impress your friends and family with your baking skills.
