Is it possible to store Homemade pie crusts - if so what methods are there?
I wanted to make pie crust for a cheesecake recipe but didn't want to make all of the actual filling at the same time ( doing it for two different events that are about two weeks apart), is it possible store the extra crust, and if so how? Crust is a simple sugar, cracker variety...
Best Answer
When preparing regular pie pastry, first chill the standard 30 minutes in the refrigerator before freezing. Chilling of pie pastry does two things:
- Relaxes the gluten that has developed during mixing
- Hydrates the starch granules (the more moisture the starch granules absorb, the more tender the final result)
Placing pie pastry right into the freezer either for "quick-chilling" to be able to better roll out right away, or for long-term storage, results in the water freezing and not having the opportunity to full hydrate the starch.
Instead of dividing pie pastry into two balls as many recipes direct, instead divide the dough but shape into 1-inch thick disks that are then wrapped, chilled, and frozen, if desired. The disk shape will allow it to chill more quickly, thaw more quickly (do so in the refrigerator to avoid excessive condensation between plastic wrap and dough) so that the exterior doesn't get too soft before the interior has softened, and it will be easier to maintain a round shape while rolling.
When making cracker crumb crusts as you indicated that you're doing for the cheesecake, I'd recommend freezing the bulk crumb/sugar/butter mixture in a freezer bag. If you're going to be baking the crumb crust you could just thaw it on the countertop until the mixture is soft enough to manipulate with your hands. Otherwise, microwave it for about 20 seconds at a time to melt the butter and then press and shape in your pan. If you were to shape the crust in the pan and then freeze, you're going to have a good chance of the crust possibly ending up damaged while in the freezer.
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How do you store homemade pie crust?
Wrap dough disks in plastic wrap, then airtight in a plastic bag. Stack rolled-out crusts with waxed paper or plastic in between, and slip into a large plastic bag (or wrap securely in foil). Double-bag crusts in the pie pan. You're trying to avoid both freezer burn and off flavors from surrounding foods.How do you preserve pie crust?
To store the baked pie crust, cool the pastry shell. Wrap it in foil and place in a freezer container or bag. Seal, label, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.Can you freeze uncooked pie crust?
A: Absolutely. Pie dough is a great keeper in the freezer. As long as it's tightly wrapped in heavy-duty aluminum foil or freezer-weight plastic wrap and sealed in a freezer bag, it should keep for up to 6 months.How long can you store homemade pie crust?
For best results, use the frozen pie dough or frozen pie crusts within 3 months. You can also refrigerate unbaked pie dough or unbaked pie crust for up to 3 days. Keep tightly covered with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.More answers regarding is it possible to store Homemade pie crusts - if so what methods are there?
Answer 2
It should freeze just fine. Do let it thaw if the fridge to avoid too much condensation from being brought to temperature on the counter, though.
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