If you're on the hunt for a healthier twist on a classic favorite, look no further than this delightful Oat Bran Pie Crust! With its nutty flavor and wholesome ingredients, this crust not only elevates your pies but also adds a nutritious boost to your dessert game. Whether you're filling it with a luscious fruit filling or a creamy custard, this pie crust is the perfect base for any creation. Ready to impress your family and friends with a pie that’s as delicious as it is wholesome? Let's dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 crust
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups oat bran
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oat bran, all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Cut the softened butter into small cubes and add to the dry ingredient mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse, crumbly breadcrumbs.
- Gradually add cold water, starting with 3 tablespoons, and mix gently. Continue adding water in small amounts until the dough begins to come together and can be formed into a ball. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
- Shape the dough into a flat disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This chilling process helps the butter solidify and makes the dough easier to handle.
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle approximately 1/8 inch thick and about 2 inches larger than your pie dish.
- Carefully transfer the rolled dough to your pie dish, gently pressing it into the bottom and sides. Trim the excess dough around the edges, leaving a slight overhang.
- Crimp or flute the edges of the crust as desired. If prebaking is required for your specific pie recipe, prick the bottom of the crust with a fork.
- Depending on your pie recipe, either proceed with filling the crust or prebake it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
Tips
- Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter is softened but still cool to the touch. This helps create a flaky texture in the crust.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: When mixing the dough, be gentle! Overworking can lead to a tough crust, so mix just until combined.
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the refrigeration step! Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out.
- Roll Evenly: When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness of about 1/8 inch to ensure even baking.
- Prebake for Crispiness: If your pie filling is liquid-based, consider prebaking the crust to prevent it from becoming soggy. A light golden color indicates it's ready!
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for an extra flavor kick that complements your pie filling beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 55mg
