pie crust

The holiday season is approaching and many of us are planning on attending parties hosted by friends and family. Instead of picking up a fruitcake that will just get pushed aside and eventually thrown away, why not make a pie? I know what you're thinking: I don't have time to bake with all of the Christmas shopping and holiday festivities! I firmly disagree my friend. This pie crust recipe contains staple ingredients found in most any kitchen, and takes minutes to come together. So take a little time out of your busy holiday schedule and bake a pie.

Ingredients:

1-1/2 cups flour 

1-1/2 tsp sugar 

1/2 cup unsalted butter or vegetable shortening 

2 Tbs plus 2 tsp ice water 

optional: sometimes I add a pinch of cinnamon if I am making apple pie 

Directions:

1. Measure out flour and sugar into a large bowl. Cut up butter into small pieces and add to the flour mixture. Cut the butter into the flour using two forks or a pastry cutter. Using your hands may melt the butter, which will ruin the outcome of a flaky dough

2. Add the ice water a little bit at a time, working the dough with the pastry cutter. Once the water is incorporated, gently form the dough into a ball. Place in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Then you are good to go. Enjoy!