Step 1: Make the Pie Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
Add cold butter cubes and cut them in using a pastry cutter or fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces.
Drizzle in ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently just until the dough comes together.
Divide dough into two discs, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
Step 2: Prepare the Base Crust
Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to about 12 inches in diameter.
Carefully transfer it to your pie dish, gently pressing into the bottom and sides. Chill while preparing decorations.
Step 3: Create the Lattice Weave
Roll out the second disc of dough. Cut into even strips using a knife or pastry wheel.
Lay half the strips vertically over the filled pie. Fold back alternating strips and place horizontal strips across, weaving over and under to create a basket-weave lattice.
This technique gives a stunning bakery-quality finish perfect for Christmas pies.
Step 4: Add Festive Decorations
Using reserved dough:
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Cut snowflakes for the outer border
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Shape a Christmas tree for the center
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Add small leaves or stars for extra detail
Lightly brush the lattice edges with water or egg wash and gently press decorations into place.
Step 5: Chill Before Baking
Place the fully decorated pie in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes.
This step helps the butter stay cold, ensuring sharp details and maximum flakiness.
Step 6: Egg Wash & Bake
Brush the crust gently with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
Bake according to your pie filling recipe (typically 375°F / 190°C for 45–55 minutes), shielding edges with foil if browning too quickly.
🎄 Best Fillings for a Christmas Pie Crust
This crust pairs beautifully with:
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Classic apple pie
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Cranberry-pear pie
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Cherry pie
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Mince pie
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Custard or cream pies (pre-baked crust)
💡 Pro Tips for a Perfect Decorative Crust
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Keep dough cold at all times
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Use King Arthur Flour for consistent hydration
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Chill decorations before placing them
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Don’t stretch the dough—lift and lay gently
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Bake on a preheated baking stone for crisp bottoms
🧾 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
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Dough can be made up to 3 days ahead
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Freeze dough discs for up to 3 months
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Fully decorated unbaked pie can be frozen and baked from frozen (add 10–15 minutes baking time)
❤️ Final Thoughts
This incredible Christmas pie crust, inspired by King Arthur Flour, proves that a pie can be both breathtaking and delicious. With its flaky texture, buttery flavor, and festive design, it’s the kind of recipe that turns a simple dessert into a holiday tradition.
Perfect for bakers who love creativity, craftsmanship, and Christmas magic 🎄✨
