Air Fryer Baking Tip: Achieve a Perfect Pie Crust
Homemade pie is a beloved comfort food, but crafting a flawlessly crisp and golden crust can often be challenging. Recipe errors can lead to soggy bottoms or dry, crumbly bases, both detracting from the pie’s appeal. However, according to Martin Senders, in-house chef at Philips, using an air fryer and a simple pantry ingredient can ensure a “crisp, perfectly baked crust” every time.
The Secret Ingredient: Almonds
Senders revealed that the key to a superior pie crust is incorporating finely ground almonds into the dough. “This ingredient effectively absorbs excess moisture,” he explains, “while also adding a subtle nutty flavor, ensuring a consistently well-baked base.”
Enhancing Texture with Cornstarch
For an even better texture, Senders recommends adding a small amount of cornstarch to the pie filling. This helps prevent excessive liquid from soaking into the crust during baking.
Classic Air Fryer Pie Crust Recipe
Senders also shared his go-to classic pie crust recipe, designed for easy air fryer baking and suitable for any filling.
Ingredients:
- 2½ cups plain flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional, for sweet pies)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
- ¼ cup finely ground almonds
Method:
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and ground almonds. Add the cold butter cubes and rub them into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Gradually add ice water, stirring until the dough just comes together.
Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Roll out the chilled dough and press it into a pie dish.
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
Place the pie dish on a perforated liner or wire rack inside the air fryer basket.
For blind-baking, line the pastry with parchment paper and fill with baking beans. Air fry for 6-8 minutes before adding your filling.
Continue baking as per your recipe until the crust is golden and crisp.