The Art of Lattice Pie Work: A Guide to Creating a Beautiful and Functional Crust

When it comes to making pies, many people are intimidated by the thought of creating a lattice top crust. However, with these simple steps and tips, you'll be well on your way to crafting a beautiful and functional lattice pie crust.

First and foremost, it's essential to chill your finished pie before baking. This will help prevent the crust from shrinking or becoming misshapen during the baking process. Once your crust is ready, simply egg wash it and pop it into the oven.

To create a lattice top crust, you'll need to start by rolling out your second pie dough disc and cutting it into 1-inch strips. You can use a pizza cutter or a knife to achieve this. From there, lay five strips of dough on top of your filling, weaving them together to form a lattice pattern.

To weave the strips together, begin by folding back every other strip. Then, lay another strip of dough down going in the opposite direction and repeat the process until you've covered your entire pie. Make sure to keep your crust cold throughout the process, as this will help it hold its shape when baked.

One of the most important things to remember when making a lattice pie crust is that it serves a purpose beyond just being a pretty design. A lattice crust allows for ventilation, which is especially important when baking fruit pies. This means you can use a berry filling like strawberries or blueberries without worrying about the filling bubbling over and causing a mess.

If you're new to making pie crusts, don't be discouraged by the thought of weaving a lattice design. With practice, you'll find it becomes second nature. And remember, it's okay if your first attempts aren't perfect – with time and patience, you'll master the art of lattice pie work.

When it comes to choosing the best type of crust for a lattice pie, I highly recommend using a recipe that contains both butter and shortening. The shortening will help retain its shape in the oven, while the butter will add flavor and tenderness to your crust. If you don't have shortening on hand, don't worry – a 1/2 butter, 1/2 shortening ratio is also a great option.

In conclusion, making a lattice pie crust may seem intimidating at first, but with these simple steps and tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a beautiful and functional pie that's sure to impress. So go ahead – give it a try and see the amazing results for yourself!

Pie lattice work