What To Use If You Don't Have Pie Weights I Tasting Table
Here are some household items you can use for all your blind-baking needs
Whether you're putting end-of-summer fruit to good use, gearing up for Thanksgiving or shining the (Key) limelight on Florida's favorite pie, it's always a good time to bake. And now that you've mastered a piecrust recipe and started experimenting with your own fillings, you can go ahead and call yourself a pie baker.
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And, as every pie baker knows, there are times when you will need to blind-bake—cooking the crust first before adding the filling—as well as times when you won't (see here if you need a refresher). But if you don't have pie weights hanging around your kitchen (we don't blame you), there are a number of alternatives to use instead.
If you're blind-baking and don't have pie weights, try using:
① Dried beans: Set parchment paper or foil on top of the dough, then fill 'er up with dried beans.
② Rice kernels: Use parchment paper or foil here, too, plus rice.
③ Loose change: Be sure to use foil for this one to protect the crust from the weight of the coins and any possible metallic taste.
After all, knowing how to improvise in the kitchen is the mark of any good cook.