Elise’s Award-Winning MasterChef Pie is not just any pie; it’s a delightful masterpiece that secured Elise a spot on MasterChef. This pie combines a perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and a buttery, flaky crust that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a beginner, this recipe is designed to guide you through each step to achieve a pie that’s as impressive as it is delicious. From the secret ingredients to the techniques that set this pie apart, you’ll learn how to create a dessert that’s bound to be the highlight of any meal.
Ingredients for Elise’s Award-Winning MasterChef Pie
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg yolk
- 4-6 tablespoons ice water
For the Pie Filling:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, or a mix)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How to Make Elise’s Award-Winning MasterChef Pie
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the egg yolk, and then gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently until it forms a smooth ball.
- Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare the Pie Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the berries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to bubble and thicken (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and well combined. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Gently press the dough into the pan, trimming any excess.
- Pour the berry filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the filling. You can create a lattice pattern or a full top crust. Trim and crimp the edges to seal.
- Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with a little sugar if desired.
- Bake the Pie:
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before serving to let the filling set.
About the Main Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the pie crust, providing structure and texture. It’s essential to use chilled butter and work quickly to ensure a flaky crust.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the crust. Chilling the butter ensures it stays solid, which is key to creating a flaky texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the crust and filling. It also helps in browning the crust.
- Berries: The star of the filling, providing natural sweetness and flavor. Using a mix of berries can enhance the flavor complexity.
- Cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent for the pie filling, giving it a desirable consistency.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: Add brightness and acidity to balance the sweetness of the filling.
- Egg: Used for egg wash on the pie crust, giving it a golden, shiny finish.
Enjoy baking Elise’s Award-Winning MasterChef Pie, and relish in the compliments you’ll receive for creating such a delectable and impressive dessert!
