how long to blind bake a pie crust
The time it takes to blind bake a pie crust can vary depending on the size of the pie, the thickness of the crust, and the temperature of the oven. Here are some general guidelines:
For a standard 9-inch pie crust:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line the pie crust with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Fill the pie crust with pie weights, dried beans, or uncooked rice to weigh it down.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown.
For a smaller or larger pie crust:
- 8-inch pie crust: 12-15 minutes
- 10-inch pie crust: 20-25 minutes
- 11-inch pie crust: 25-30 minutes
Tips:
- Check the crust after 10-12 minutes to ensure it’s not browning too quickly. If it is, cover the edges with foil or a pie shield to prevent over-browning.
- If you’re using a convection oven, reduce the baking time by 2-3 minutes.
- After blind baking, let the crust cool completely before filling and baking again.
Remember, the key to a successful blind bake is to prevent the crust from bubbling up or becoming misshapen. By using pie weights or a similar weight, you’ll ensure a smooth, even crust that’s ready for filling.
