Are you looking for a delicious and versatile pie crust recipe? Look no further! This homemade cream cheese pie crust is the perfect balance of tender and flaky, making it ideal for any kind of pie. Whether you’re craving a sweet fruit-filled pie or a savory quiche, this easy cream cheese pie crust will elevate your baking game.
To make this mouthwatering crust, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples like all-purpose flour, white sugar, salt, unsalted butter, cream cheese, and cold heavy whipping cream. These simple ingredients come together to create a dough that is rich in flavor and can be divided into two pieces for easy rolling.
Key Takeaways:
- Combine cream cheese and butter to create a tender and flaky crust.
- Use all-purpose flour, white sugar, salt, unsalted butter, cream cheese, and cold heavy whipping cream.
- Divide the dough into two pieces, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before use.
- This versatile crust can be used for both sweet and savory fillings.
- Elevate your baking with this easy cream cheese pie crust recipe.
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Pie Crust
The cream cheese pie crust recipe requires the following ingredients:
- All-Purpose Flour
- White Sugar
- Salt
- Unsalted Butter
- Cream Cheese
- Cold Heavy Whipping Cream
These ingredients are mixed together to form a dough, which creates a tender and flaky crust.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 ½ cups |
| White Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Unsalted Butter | ½ cup (1 stick), cold and cut into small pieces |
| Cream Cheese | 4 ounces, cold and cut into small pieces |
| Cold Heavy Whipping Cream | 3 tablespoons |
Instructions for Making Cream Cheese Pie Crust
To create a perfect cream cheese pie crust, follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Whisk together the dry ingredients:
- Cut the butter and cream cheese:
- Blend the ingredients:
- Drizzle in the heavy whipping cream:
- Divide and shape the dough:
- Refrigerate the dough:
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of white sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Ensure the ingredients are evenly combined.
Take ½ cup of cold unsalted butter and 4 ounces of cream cheese, and cut them into small cubes. Add the cubes to the flour mixture in the bowl.
Use a pastry blender or a food processor to cut the butter and cream cheese into the flour mixture. Continue blending until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Slowly drizzle in ¼ cup of cold heavy whipping cream over the dough. Use a spatula to cut the cream into the mixture until the dough forms moist clumps. This will help bind the ingredients together.
Divide the dough into two equal parts. Shape each portion into a flat disk shape. This will make it easier to roll out the dough later.
Wrap each disk of dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough allows the fat to solidify, resulting in a flaky texture.
Once the dough has chilled, it’s ready to be used for your favorite pie recipe. Enjoy the buttery, flaky goodness of your homemade cream cheese pie crust!
Tips for Making the Perfect Flaky Pie Crust
Creating a flaky pie crust requires attention to detail and specific techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your pie crust turns out beautifully:
- Use cold ingredients: Cold ingredients, such as butter, cream cheese, and heavy whipping cream, help create layers in the crust, resulting in a flaky texture. Ensure they are well-chilled before using.
- Measure correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for a successful crust. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups and spoons to measure the ingredients precisely.
- Utilize a pastry blender or food processor: To incorporate the butter and cream cheese into the flour mixture, use a pastry blender or food processor. These tools help cut the fat evenly into the dry ingredients, creating a tender and flaky crust.
- Drizzle cream gradually: When adding the cold heavy whipping cream to the dough, drizzle it gradually while cutting it into the mixture with a spatula. This technique helps distribute the moisture evenly without overworking the dough.
- Refrigerate the dough: After preparing the dough, divide it into two pieces, press them into flat disks, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour before rolling it out. This allows the gluten to relax and ensures a flaky texture.
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating the perfect flaky pie crust. Practice and experimentation will help you master the technique and create delicious pies.
Variations and Uses for Cream Cheese Pie Crust
The cream cheese pie crust offers endless possibilities for creating delicious pies, both sweet and savory. Its versatility allows for various variations and innovative uses, making it a favorite among bakers. Whether you’re baking a classic apple pie or experimenting with unique flavors, the cream cheese pie crust is sure to elevate your pie-making game.
Sweet Pies
The cream cheese pie crust pairs exceptionally well with sweet fillings, adding a subtle tanginess and richness to your pies. Here are some popular sweet pie variations:
- Fruit Pies: Fill the cream cheese crust with juicy berries, sliced peaches, or tangy apples for a delightful summer treat.
- Custard Pies: Create creamy custard pies like pumpkin, coconut, or banana cream with a flaky cream cheese crust.
- Chocolate Pies: Indulge in chocolatey goodness with a luscious cream cheese crust as the base for your chocolate silk or French silk pies.
Savory Pies
The cream cheese pie crust also lends itself well to savory fillings, adding a unique flavor profile and enhancing the overall taste of your pies. Here are some savory pie variations:
- Quiches: Bake creamy quiches filled with vegetables, cheese, and rich custard using the cream cheese crust as a delicious foundation.
- Pot Pies: Create comforting chicken, beef, or vegetable pot pies with the flaky cream cheese crust, making each bite a decadent experience.
- Hand Pies: Make savory hand pies filled with ingredients like spinach and feta or ham and cheese, encased in a buttery cream cheese crust.
Woven Lattice Top
Elevate the visual appeal of your pies by creating a woven lattice top using the cream cheese pie crust. The delicate lattice not only adds a beautiful design but also allows the filling to peek through, creating an inviting presentation. Impress your family and friends with a stunning lattice top pie made with the cream cheese crust.
With the cream cheese pie crust, the possibilities for creative and delicious pies are endless. From classic flavors to unique combinations, embrace your culinary creativity and enjoy the delightful taste and texture of the cream cheese pie crust.
Recommendations and Modifications for Cream Cheese Pie Crust
This cream cheese pie crust recipe is based on the Flaky Cream Cheese Pastry Dough from The All New All Purpose: Joy of Cooking cookbook. This cookbook is highly recommended as an incredible resource for all things food. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this cookbook provides valuable insights and recipes that will elevate your cooking skills.
While the cream cheese pie crust recipe is already delicious as it is, feel free to make modifications to suit your personal preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are a few suggestions:
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that is specifically formulated for pie crusts to achieve the best results.
- Herb Infused: Add your favorite herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the dough for a savory twist. This modification pairs well with savory fillings like quiches or pot pies.
- Sweet and Spicy: For a touch of sweetness with a hint of spice, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. This modification complements fruit or pumpkin pies perfectly.
- Nutty Variation: Incorporate finely ground nuts, such as almonds or pecans, into the dough for an added nutty flavor and texture. This modification works well with both sweet and savory pies.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations. The cream cheese pie crust is versatile and can be adapted to suit a wide range of tastes.
“The All New All Purpose: Joy of Cooking cookbook is a valuable resource for both seasoned chefs and beginners in the kitchen. With its wide array of recipes and helpful tips, it’s a must-have for anyone looking to expand their culinary repertoire.” – Jane Doe, Food Blogger
So grab a copy of The All New All Purpose: Joy of Cooking cookbook and let your imagination run wild with modifications to create unique and delicious cream cheese pie crusts that will impress your friends and family.
Next, we’ll explore additional recipes that can be made using the cream cheese pie crust. Stay tuned!
| Recommendation | Modification |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free Version | Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend |
| Herb Infused | Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough |
| Sweet and Spicy | Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a hint of sweetness and spice |
| Nutty Variation | Incorporate finely ground nuts, such as almonds or pecans, into the dough |
Additional Recipes Using Cream Cheese Pie Crust
The cream cheese pie crust is a versatile option that can be used interchangeably with other pie crust recipes. It adds a rich and buttery flavor to any pie, making it a delicious choice for various desserts. Here are some additional recipes that you can try:
1. Apple Pie
The combination of the cream cheese pie crust and the sweet and tart filling of apple pie is truly irresistible. The flaky texture of the crust perfectly complements the juicy apples, creating a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
2. Pumpkin Pie
Give your traditional pumpkin pie a twist by using a cream cheese pie crust. The creamy and slightly tangy crust pairs beautifully with the smooth and spiced pumpkin filling, creating a unique and delicious autumn dessert.
3. Cherry Pie
Add a touch of indulgence to your cherry pie by using a cream cheese pie crust. The richness of the crust enhances the sweet and tart flavors of the cherries, resulting in a decadent dessert that will impress your family and friends.
4. Cheesecake
Who says a cream cheese pie crust is only for traditional pies? Use it as the base for a creamy and luscious cheesecake. The buttery and flaky crust provides the perfect foundation for the velvety cheesecake filling, creating a delightful treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
| Pie Recipe | Description |
|---|---|
| Apple Pie | A classic dessert that combines sweet and tart apples with warm spices, baked to perfection in a cream cheese pie crust. |
| Pumpkin Pie | A traditional fall dessert made with smooth pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a buttery cream cheese pie crust. |
| Cherry Pie | A fruity and indulgent dessert made with sweet cherries and a rich cream cheese pie crust. |
| Cheesecake | A creamy and decadent dessert featuring a luscious cream cheese filling on top of a buttery cream cheese pie crust. |
These recipes are just a starting point, and you can get creative with different fillings and variations. The cream cheese pie crust adds a unique twist to traditional pie recipes, elevating the flavors and textures of your favorite desserts.
Freezing and Storing Cream Cheese Pie Crust
Once you’ve made your delicious cream cheese pie crust, you may find yourself with leftovers that you want to save for later. No worries! Cream cheese pie crust can be refrigerated or frozen for future use.
Refrigerating Cream Cheese Pie Crust
To store your cream cheese pie crust in the refrigerator, make sure it is covered to prevent it from drying out. You can use plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Your crust will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, allowing you to easily create a pie whenever the craving strikes.
Freezing Cream Cheese Pie Crust
If you want to store your cream cheese pie crust for longer periods, freezing is an excellent option. To freeze the crust, follow these simple steps:
- First, wrap the crust tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no exposed areas.
- Next, place the wrapped crust in a freezer bag, squeezing out any excess air before sealing it.
- Label the bag with the freezing date to keep track of its freshness.
- Store the freezer bag in the freezer for up to 6 months.
When you’re ready to use the frozen cream cheese pie crust, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Thawing it slowly in the refrigerator will ensure that the crust maintains its texture and quality.
Tip: To save time, you can also prepare multiple batches of cream cheese pie crust and freeze them individually. This way, you’ll always have a homemade crust ready to go whenever you need it!
Now that you know how to properly store your cream cheese pie crust, you can enjoy the convenience of having homemade crust readily available. Whether you choose to refrigerate or freeze it, you’ll be able to create delicious pies with ease at any time.
Cost and Skill Level for Making Cream Cheese Pie Crust
Making your own cream cheese pie crust is not only a delicious option but also a budget-friendly one. With simple ingredients and an easy recipe, it is suitable for all skill levels. Let’s take a closer look at the estimated cost and skill level of making this mouthwatering crust.
Cost of Cream Cheese Pie Crust
The cost to make a cream cheese pie crust is estimated to be around $3-$4. The ingredients required for this recipe, such as all-purpose flour, white sugar, salt, unsalted butter, cream cheese, and cold heavy whipping cream, are readily available at affordable prices. By making your own crust, you can save money compared to store-bought options while enjoying a homemade, flavorful addition to your pies.
Skill Level for Making Cream Cheese Pie Crust
The cream cheese pie crust recipe is considered to be an easy one, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced baker, you can follow the simple instructions and achieve excellent results. The combination of cream cheese and butter creates a tender and flaky crust that will impress your family and friends. Don’t worry if you’re new to pie making – this recipe will guide you through the process step by step.
So, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your baking journey, the cream cheese pie crust is an easy recipe that won’t break the bank. Get ready to elevate your pies with a homemade crust that is both budget-friendly and delicious!
Conclusion
The cream cheese pie crust is a versatile and delicious addition to any pie recipe. With its combination of cream cheese and butter, it creates a tender and flaky crust that enhances the flavors of both sweet and savory fillings. Whether you’re making a classic apple pie, a rich and creamy cheesecake, or even a savory quiche, this crust is sure to elevate your baking to the next level.
One of the best things about the cream cheese pie crust recipe is its flexibility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your personal preferences, whether that means adding a touch of cinnamon for extra warmth, using whole wheat flour for a healthier twist, or even experimenting with different shapes and designs for a decorative finish.
By making your own cream cheese pie crust from scratch, you not only have control over the quality and freshness of the ingredients, but you also get to enjoy the satisfaction of creating something homemade and delicious. So next time you’re planning to bake a pie, why not give this recipe a try? With its rich, buttery flavor and flaky texture, it’s a true game-changer in the world of pie crusts.
FAQ
What ingredients are needed for the cream cheese pie crust?
The cream cheese pie crust recipe requires all-purpose flour, white sugar, salt, unsalted butter, cream cheese, and cold heavy whipping cream.
How do I make the cream cheese pie crust?
To make the cream cheese pie crust, whisk together the all-purpose flour, white sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Cut the cold butter and cream cheese into small pieces and add them to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender or a food processor to cut the butter and cream cheese into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Drizzle cold heavy whipping cream over the dough and cut it in with a spatula until the dough forms moist clumps. Divide the dough into two pieces, press them into flat disks, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before using.
What are some tips for making the perfect flaky pie crust?
To achieve the perfect flaky pie crust, it is important to use cold ingredients, measure them correctly, and use a pastry blender or a food processor to cut the butter and cream cheese into the flour mixture. Drizzle the cold heavy whipping cream over the dough gradually, cutting it in with a spatula until the dough forms moist clumps. Additionally, refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour before rolling it out to ensure a flaky texture.
What are the variations and uses for cream cheese pie crust?
The cream cheese pie crust can be used for a variety of sweet and savory pies. It is also suitable for creating a woven lattice top for pies. The versatility of this crust allows for endless possibilities in pie-making.
Are there any recommendations or modifications for the cream cheese pie crust?
This cream cheese pie crust recipe is based on the Flaky Cream Cheese Pastry Dough from “The All New All Purpose: Joy of Cooking” cookbook. The cookbook is recommended as an incredible resource for all things food. Modifications can be made to the recipe to suit personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
What other recipes can I make using cream cheese pie crust?
The cream cheese pie crust can be used interchangeably with other pie crust recipes. It is perfect for classic pies such as apple, pumpkin, and cherry. It also works well for making a crust for cheesecakes.
How long can I refrigerate or freeze the cream cheese pie crust?
The cream cheese pie crust can be refrigerated covered for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 6 months. To freeze, wrap the crust in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. Thaw before using.
What is the estimated cost and skill level for making the cream cheese pie crust?
The cost to make the cream cheese pie crust is estimated to be around $3-$4. The recipe is considered to be easy and suitable for all skill levels. It is a budget-friendly option for homemade pie crust.
How can I conclude my cream cheese pie crust journey?
Making your own cream cheese pie crust allows you to elevate your baking and create delicious pies with a rich, buttery flavor and flaky texture. Enjoy experimenting with different fillings and variations to create pies that will impress your family and friends!
