There’s a myth about pie crusts, and I’m not sure where it comes from. For some reason, people think pie crusts are hard to make. I’m here to tell you that isn’t true. While I’ll admit it can take a little practice to get them looking perfect, the only thing you should be scared of when talking about pie crusts is some of the ingredients in those store-bought versions.
Here’s a quick rundown of some reasons I like to avoid those refrigerated pie crusts:
- Similar to their refrigerated cousins-crescent rolls, these pie crusts are made from enriched, bleached white flour. That’s flour that’s had all the whole grain nutrients stripped away with a couple “vitamins” added back. Stick to real, whole grains-they’re much better for you!
- Partially hydrogenated lard is chemically altered lard. While the use of lard from pasture-raised animals is making a comeback, this chemically altered fat is one you should definitely avoid.
- BHA and BHT is used to keep foods from going rancid, but both are potentially dangerous. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services considers BHA to be “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.” Of course, the FDA has failed to act on this and still permits BHA’s use in foods.
- Yellow 5 and Red 40 are both on CSPI’s “additives to avoid” lists due to a variety of significant health concerns/studies. Don’t you find it surprising a pie crust needs added colors to look appetizing? Something isn’t right with this!
To avoid these chemical concoctions, one option is to look for organic, whole wheat frozen pie crusts-I know my local co-op, and Whole Foods both stock them. Or you can make your pie crust. Yes, it takes a little time, but pie crusts are pretty easy.
100% Delicious Whole Wheat Pie Crust Recipe
A good friend of mine recently shared his pie crust recipe with me. He used to blog just about pies, so he’s my go-to pie expert.
I’m excited to share my real food version of his recipe that I like to call 100% Delicious Whole Wheat Pie Crust. The bottom line is this crust is simply delicious AND made with real ingredients – and it’s not hard to make at all! I hope you’ll try it!
No matter what kind of pie or quiche you’re making, I hope this 100% Delicious Whole Wheat Pie Crust can be your new go-to option! So let’s get baking! 🙂
Cheers!
Bruce
100% Delicious Whole Wheat Pie Crust
Recipe By:Note: For most recipes you can adjust the measures for more or less servings by hovering over the servings number and moving the slider.
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups whole wheat pastry flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar or maple syrup see notes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 sticks unsalted butter
- 5 tablespoons cold water
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
Instructions
- In a food processor, pulse the flour, sugar, salt and butter into the texture of little peas— you don’t want the butter all mixed in!
- Mix in the cold water and vinegar. Pulse until the dough forms a ball.
- Divide the ball into two balls, flatten each ball slightly, then wrap in waxed paper and place in a zippered bag.
- Chill for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Notes
Kitchen resources and tips:
- A good food processor makes mixing up my whole wheat pie crust recipe über easy! If you don’t have one, I love my Cuisinart!
- A good rolling pin is essential to rolling out your pie crust. I have three different types of rolling pins (crazy, huh?) and this french style pin is what I prefer.
- These pie crust and pastry mats are a cool tool, especially when you’re learning how to roll out your crust.
This Post Has 5 Comments
MamaDebbie
27 Nov 2014I think I found my problem, I have been over processing. Thanks for the great advice! I’ll let you know how my crusts turn out after the Holiday. Thanks again.
Thanks! I made an apple pie with them today, and I got tons of compliments! Hope you did as well!
Kay
15 Jan 2015I would love to try your recipe, but I need the nutrition facts. I am a diabetic.
Trina
3 May 2019Absolutely love this whole wheat pie crust recipe Super easy and so good! So glad I found it!
Hi Trina!
Thanks for your comment and great review. I must admit — it is pretty super.
Sorry it’s taken me so long to reply. I’ve been working on a big project (launching a new product based on a very popular dog treat recipe from my website). If you have a dog you should definitely check it out at yittopaws.com.
Thanks again! Cheers!
Bruce