Olivia Carter
The cast iron skillet is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for so much more than just frying bacon. One of the many things you can make in a cast iron skillet is a delicious pie! Making a pie in a cast iron skillet gives it a rustic, homey feel and allows for a perfectly crispy crust. Whether you’re a seasoned pie maker or a novice in the kitchen, this article will guide you through the steps of making a pie in a cast iron skillet.
Choose Your Pie Filling: The first step in making a pie in a cast iron skillet is choosing your filling. You can go with classic apple, cherry, or pumpkin, or get creative with combinations like peach and blueberry or chocolate and peanut butter. Whatever filling you choose, make sure it’s something that will hold up well to the heat of the skillet.
Prepare Your Crust: Next, it’s time to prepare your pie crust. You can use store-bought crust if you’re short on time, but making your own crust from scratch is easy and adds a homemade touch to your pie. Mix flour, salt, and cold butter together until crumbly, then add ice water a little at a time until the dough comes together. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and transfer it to the skillet, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides.
Assemble and Bake: Once your crust is in the skillet, it’s time to assemble your pie. Add your chosen filling to the skillet, making sure it’s spread evenly. If you like, you can add a sprinkle of sugar or cinnamon on top for extra flavor. Place the skillet in the oven and bake at the recommended temperature and time for your pie filling. The cast iron skillet will help to evenly distribute the heat, resulting in a perfectly cooked pie.
Making a pie in a cast iron skillet is a fun and delicious way to enjoy this classic dessert. With a flaky crust and a flavorful filling, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. So why not give it a try and impress everyone with your pie-making skills?
Choosing the Right Skillet
When it comes to making a pie in a cast iron skillet, choosing the right skillet is essential. Here are a few factors to consider:
Size:
Cast iron skillets come in various sizes, so it’s important to choose one that will accommodate the size of your pie. A 10-inch skillet is typically a good size for most pie recipes, but you can also opt for a larger or smaller skillet depending on your needs.
Depth:
The depth of the skillet is another important factor to consider. A deeper skillet is ideal for pies with a lot of filling or a double crust. On the other hand, a shallower skillet works well for pies with a single crust or less filling.
Quality:
Investing in a high-quality cast iron skillet is important for achieving the best results. Look for skillets that are made from durable cast iron and have a smooth cooking surface. Avoid skillets with any cracks, uneven surfaces, or questionable quality.
Additionally, consider whether you prefer a pre-seasoned skillet or one that requires seasoning before use. Pre-seasoned skillets are convenient and ready to use, while regular skillets may require some initial seasoning to create a non-stick surface.
By considering the size, depth, and quality of the skillet, you can ensure that you have the right tool for making a delicious pie in a cast iron skillet. Remember to check the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific care or usage recommendations for your chosen skillet.
Preparing the Crust
When it comes to making a delicious pie in a cast iron skillet, the crust plays a crucial role. The perfect pie crust should be flaky, buttery, and have a golden-brown color. Here’s how you can prepare the crust for your pie:
Gather Your Ingredients
First, gather all the ingredients you’ll need for the crust. You’ll need:
- 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ¼ to ½ cup of ice water
Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. You want the butter to be evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Next, drizzle in the ice water, starting with ¼ cup. Use a fork to gently mix the ingredients together until the dough starts to come together. If the dough seems too dry, gradually add more ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.
Form the Dough
Dump the mixture onto a clean, floured surface and use your hands to bring the dough together into a ball. Be cautious not to handle the dough too much, as this can make it tough. Divide the dough in half and form each half into a disc. Wrap each disc tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
Chilling the dough allows the butter to solidify again, resulting in a flakier crust. Plus, it makes the dough easier to work with when you’re ready to roll it out!
Now that you’ve prepared the crust, you’re ready to move on to the next step in making your delicious pie in a cast iron skillet.
Assembling the Pie
Once you have prepared your pie filling and crust, it’s time to assemble the pie in your cast iron skillet. Follow these steps to ensure your pie turns out delicious:
- Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in your pie recipe.
- Place the bottom crust: Take your prepared pie crust and gently press it into the bottom of the cast iron skillet, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
- Add the filling: Carefully pour your prepared pie filling into the crust-lined skillet, spreading it evenly.
- Top with the crust: Take your second pie crust and place it over the filling. You can leave it whole, or use a knife to create a lattice pattern or make decorative cut-outs.
- Seal the edges: Using your fingers or a fork, press the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal the pie.
- Brush with egg wash: If desired, brush the top crust with an egg wash to give it a glossy finish.
- Make steam vents: Use a sharp knife to create several small slits or decorative designs on the top crust. This will allow steam to escape during baking.
Pro tip: Placing a baking sheet or aluminum foil underneath the cast iron skillet can help catch any potential drips or spills during baking.
Now that your pie is assembled, it’s ready to be baked in the oven according to your recipe’s instructions. Enjoy the delicious aroma and anticipation as your cast iron skillet pie bakes to golden perfection!
Baking and Serving
Once your pie is assembled and ready to be baked, preheat your oven to the specified temperature in the recipe.
Baking the Pie
Place the cast iron skillet with the pie in the preheated oven and let it bake for the recommended amount of time. Keep a close eye on the pie during the baking process to ensure that it doesn’t burn.
After the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the filling to set and make it easier to slice and serve.
Serving the Pie
Before serving, you can garnish the pie with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for added presentation. Using a sharp knife or a pie server, carefully slice the pie into wedges.
Serve the slices of pie on individual plates or dessert dishes, and don’t forget to offer your guests a side of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for that extra touch of decadence. Enjoy!
FAQ
What is a cast iron skillet?
A cast iron skillet is a heavy, flat-bottomed pan made of cast iron that is commonly used in cooking.
Can I make a pie in a cast iron skillet?
Yes, you can make a pie in a cast iron skillet. In fact, many people prefer using a cast iron skillet for pie baking because it distributes heat evenly and creates a golden crust.
