Vodka Pie Crust Recipe America's Test Kitchen
Introduction
Are you tired of boring pie crusts? Do you want to try something new and exciting? Look no further than America's Test Kitchen's vodka pie crust recipe! This recipe promises a flaky, tender crust that can hold up to even the juiciest fruit fillings. Plus, the addition of vodka helps prevent gluten formation, resulting in a more tender crust.
Ingredients
To make this vodka pie crust, you will need:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 1/4-inch pieces and chilled
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening, cut into 4 pieces and chilled
- 1/4 cup vodka, chilled
- 1/4 cup cold water
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Using a pastry blender or your fingers, cut in the butter and shortening until the mixture resembles coarse sand with some pea-sized pieces of fat remaining.
3. Sprinkle the vodka and water over the mixture and stir with a fork until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly until it forms a cohesive ball.
5. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk.
6. Wrap the disks tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 2 days.
Tips for Success
1. Be sure to use chilled butter, shortening, and vodka to ensure a flaky crust.
2. Don't overwork the dough – knead it just enough to bring it together.
3. Chill the dough before rolling it out to prevent shrinking during baking.
4. Use a light touch when rolling out the dough – too much pressure can cause the crust to become tough.
Variations
1. For a savory pie crust, omit the sugar and add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs, such as thyme or rosemary.
2. For a chocolate pie crust, substitute 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder for an equal amount of flour.
3. For a gluten-free crust, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and reduce the amount of vodka to 2 tablespoons.
Conclusion
With its flaky texture and subtle vodka flavor, America's Test Kitchen's vodka pie crust recipe is sure to impress. Whether you're making a classic apple pie or trying out a new flavor combination, this crust is the perfect canvas for your favorite fillings. So why not give it a try and see for yourself how delicious it can be?
