Add One Ingredient For A Flakier Gluten-Free Pie Crust

Pie is a timeless classic that is loved by practically everyone — regardless of dietary restrictions — but those who follow a gluten-free diet often miss out on this delicious treat. Luckily, with the right ingredients and a single tip, pie can be made into a delicious gluten-free dessert that everyone can enjoy.

Gluten-free pie crust is a pie crust made without wheat, barley, or rye flour, which typically contain gluten (via Mayo Clinic Health System). It is an excellent alternative for people who have celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or simply follow a gluten-free diet, and is made using gluten-free flours like almond flour, coconut flour, or rice flour combined with ingredients like butter, sugar, and eggs (via Kitchn).

Making gluten-free pie crust can be tricky, as it requires finding the right balance between ingredients to achieve the desired texture. But the secret to a flaky, crispy, and delicious gluten-free pie crust is the addition of one dairy product you likely already have in your fridge.

Sour cream is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes, including pie crust, according to Gluten-Free on a Shoestring. The acidity of the sour cream helps to create a tender and flaky crust. It also provides moisture, which makes the crust easier to roll out and shape.

The best way to incorporate sour cream into the pie crust is by mixing it in with the dry ingredients. This helps to distribute the sour cream evenly throughout the crust and prevents the crust from becoming too soft. Additionally, make sure to use cold sour cream, as this helps to create a flakier crust. By adding cold sour cream, you can create more lamination, which is small layers of fat within the dough, in the crust (via Food and Wine). 

Once you have successfully incorporated cold sour cream into your gluten-free pie dough, you can continue to follow your normal recipe. Be sure to chill and bake the gluten-free pie crust as directed for the best results. But with this simple addition to your favorite crust, you just might find that it can reach new heights.