Ingredients:

  • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (150 grams)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for sweet pies)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (115 grams)
  • 3-4 tablespoons ice water

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar (if using).
  2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture and blend until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together.
  4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently just until it holds together, then wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  5. After chilling, roll the dough out on a floured surface to fit your pie dish, about 1/8 inch thick.
  6. Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to the pie dish, trimming excess dough if necessary.
  7. For fillings that require a pre-baked crust, prick the bottom with a fork and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden.