Can I Make a Pie Crust in an Instant Pot?

It is a common question among home bakers: Can I make a pie crust in an Instant Pot? The short answer is no, but let’s explore the reasoning behind this and explore alternative methods.

The Myth of Microwaveable Pie Crusts

There is no such thing as a microwaveable pie crust. It simply won’t work without baking first. Microwaveable refers to the ease of reheating, but the crust needs the initial baking to set its structure and texture. You can indeed bake the crust in the oven, refrigerate it, and then slot it into the microwave to heat it, but it must undergo that initial baking step.

Pie Crusts: The Old-Fashioned Way

I adhere to the traditional baking methods, preferring a crust made in the traditional way – baked in the oven – even if the idea of microwaveable crusts seems convenient. It’s a testament to the time-honored techniques that have stood the test of time, and there’s a reason these methods continue to be recommended by both seasoned and novice bakers alike. If you’re willing to put in the time, your pie crust will be flavorful, flaky, and perfectly golden.

Alternative Methods: Dumpling-Type Crusts

For those who appreciate the old-fashioned way but are seeking a crunch, an alternative method is to make a dumpling-type crust. This can be a great choice for pies or pot pies, providing a contrasting texture and comforting consistency. These types of crusts aren’t fully cooked and baked in the traditional sense, but rather resemble a thick dough that can be added to a stew or pie filling.

The dumpling crust is also useful because it can be formed into various shapes and sizes, providing flexibility in your baking. If you're making a chicken pot pie or other similar dishes, this can add an interesting element to the meal. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Dumpling-Type Crust Recipe

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed 1/4 cup cold water

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Using a pastry blender or your fingers, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in the cold water, mixing until the dough just comes together. The dough should be crumbly and not sticky. Form the dough into a disc and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. When ready to use, roll out the dough and place it over your filling, tucking and overlapping as desired.

Conclusion

While making a pie crust in an Instant Pot isn’t feasible, there are alternative methods that can create a delicious and comforting crust. The traditional methods may take a bit more time, but the result is well worth it. Whether you choose to make a conventional pie crust or a dumpling-type crust, the key is using the right techniques and ingredients.

If you're looking for more baking tips, recipes, and advice, you can find many resources online and in various baking books. Happy baking, and may your pie crusts always come out as perfect as they deserve to be!