Basic Pie Pastry

1. 1

   Sift the flour, salt, and baking powder into a large bowl.

2. 2

   Cut the butter into the flour using your fingertips or a pastry blender (or pulse in a food processor) until the texture resembles coarse meal with visible bits of butter.

3. 3

   Drizzle 4 tablespoons ice water evenly over the mixture and gently stir with a fork or pulse until incorporated.

4. 4

   Pinch off a small handful of dough; if it doesnt hold together, add more water, 1/2 tablespoon at a time, stirring or pulsing after each addition.

5. 5

   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface.

6. 6

   Divide the ball of dough in half, and pat into disks about 1/2-inch thick.

7. 7

   Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, at least 1 hour or up to 2 days.

No additional tips available.