Butter Crust
A buttery, flaky crust perfect for cream pies and sweet or savory fillings. Its rich flavor and tender texture make it a versatile base for various desserts and tarts, ideal for bakers seeking a homemade touch that complements a variety of fillings and presentations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the plain flour and salt in a pie pan.
- Add the cold milk and melted butter mixture.
- Work the dough out to the sides of the pan with your fingers.
- Bake at 350°F until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure the butter is very cold before melting, and avoid overworking the dough. If you don't have plain flour, you can substitute with a gluten-free blend or whole wheat flour, though it may alter the texture slightly. Adding a teaspoon of sugar can enhance sweetness if you're making a dessert pie.
Serving Suggestions
This butter crust is versatile and pairs well with both sweet and savory fillings. For a delightful dessert, fill it with fresh fruits and top with Quick Caramel Icing. Alternatively, use it for a savory tart, perhaps filled with vegetables or cheese, making it a great base for vegetarian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crust in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help maintain its crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butter Crust contains roughly 455 calories, with 6g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1746mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors. Salted butter will give a slightly different taste but can enhance the overall flavor of the crust.
What can I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is too crumbly, try adding a little more cold milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it comes together. Alternatively, ensure that the melted butter is well combined with the flour before adding the milk.
How can I make this crust ahead of time?
You can prepare the crust ahead by mixing the dry ingredients and storing them in the refrigerator. When ready to use, simply add the melted butter and milk. Alternatively, you can bake the crust in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days before filling.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).