Pie Crust without a Mixer

So we are newly weds, and we do not have the room or funds for a big fancy blender. Its probably a good thing my mommy taught me to use this amazing little tool called a pastry blender. They aren't popular anymore, but when you are short on time and funds pastry blenders can be the difference between delicious homemade baked goods. I purchased mine at a antique mall (made in the 1920's) but you can find them in the baking section at any retailer. Make sure that you do not get one that wobbles or swivels when you are cutting your butter or shortening into your flour.

Pastry blender from the 1920's. If you get an antique pastry blender be sure to wash it by hand  to make it last longer.

So the recipe that I have started using for pie actually comes from The Chew's Carla Hall, with a few minor changes. 

Ingredients:

• 2/3 c warm water
• 2 tbsp sugar (for desserts, for pot pie only use 1tbsp)
•  1 tsp fine salt
• 1 c wheat flour and 1 c white flour sifted
• 1/4-1/2 c flour for board
• 8oz cold butter, cut into cubes

First dissolve the sugar and salt into the water. Then put the water in your refrigerator. 

Next mix your wheat and white flour together. I use these two types of flour as a way to make it healthier, without loosing flavor or texture. Add your butter to the flour and cut with a pastry blender. When the butter is completely incorperated it will look sandy.

The last step is to take the water out of the fridge and pour it in the center of the bowl. Work your flour-butter mixture into the water with the pastry blender until it is incorporated completely. Divide in half and wrap in plastic wrap. Let them chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before using them because your dough will be sticky at room temperature. Soooo..... That only took me 15-20 minutes. The dough will freeze well if you want to make a large batch. Just remember. You don't need a Kitchen Aid to make delicious crust. You just need a pastry blender and some time. 

How to use your Dough?

Roll it out to be the same size and shape as your baking dish. Don't forget about the sides and leaving some extra to pinch at the end! Pre-bake this crust for about 15 minutes. Then add your filling and bake your pie according to your recipes.