Category: Pie Crusts

Posted on by — 1 Comment

Tips for Using Your KitchenAid Pie Crust Attachment

KitchenAid Pie Crust Attachment

** This post also contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you purchase a product after clicking on a link at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Tips for Using Your KitchenAid Pie Crust Attachment will have you making perfect pie crust, every single time.

Make perfect pie crusts with ease using the KitchenAid Pie Crust Attachment! This handy device helps you get consistent, professional-looking crusts every time, no matter your skill level. Discover our tips and tricks to help you create perfect results every single time.

1. Choose the Right Crust for Your Recipe

Choose the right RECIPE for Your KitchenAid Pie Crust Attachment

Before you can start using your KitchenAid Pie Crust Attachment, you must first choose the right pie crust for your recipe.

If a recipe calls for a “crumb crust”, choose a traditional flour and butter-based crust. For a flaky, golden pie crust, use a combination of all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, and chilly water.

And when in doubt – don’t forget to consult your local baker or the helpful recipes found on the back of the KitchenAid Pie Crust Attachment packaging!

2. Follow the Directions for Best Results

Follow the Directions for Best Results Using Your KitchenAid Pie Crust Attachment

Make sure to read and follow all the directions included with your KitchenAid Pie Crust Attachment. If a recipe calls for coated blades, make sure to coat them with white flour before use; if not, make sure to leave them uncoated.

Additionally, for the best results, make sure to attach the mixing bowl securely and avoid overmixing the dough. Overmixing can cause your crusts to turn out tough and hard instead of light and flaky!

3. Chill Your Ingredients and Keep Everything Cold

Chill Your Ingredients for the Best Results Using Your KitchenAid Pie Crust Attachment

To ensure flaky crusts, a key tip is to keep all your ingredients as cold as possible. Chill the bowl and mixer attachments prior to use and make sure you cut very cold butter into your dry ingredients before adding the liquid.

Additionally, when combining the wet and dry ingredients together, mix quickly to ensure the butter doesn’t melt. Work quickly while forming your crusts to help them retain their chill.

4. Grease Your Attachment Parts

Grease Using Your KitchenAid Pie Crust Attachment for Best Results

Before getting started, make sure to grease your attachments with a light coating of butter flavored Crisco, or vegetable shortening to prevent the dough from sticking.

Plus, it will also help for easy clean-up. Make sure you’re extra generous with the corners and notches of your attachment parts as this is where most of the sticking occurs.

Additionally, always use chilly water when mixing and make sure there are no chunks of butter in your dough as these can create “flaky layers” in the crust during baking.

6. Use the KitchenAid Pastry Tilt Head Stand Mixer Beater Attachment

Your KitchenAid Pie Crust Attachment

You are going to love the KitchenAid Pastry Tilt Head Stand Mixer Beater. You can use it to mix up your favorite pastries with ease.

This attachment will ensure that you do not over mix your dough. It is designed to easily cut butter into flour to make a variety of pastry dough with ease.

Conclusion of “Essential Tips and Tricks for Using Your KitchenAid Pie Crust Attachment“

Pie Crust

I hope you enjoyed reading my article on “Essential Tips and Tricks for Using Your KitchenAid Pie Crust Attachment.” If you follow these 6 steps, you will be well on your way to making a delicious flakey homemade pie crust in no time.

No time to bake? Let me do it for you! Shop at Nana’s Bakery to place your orders!

Thank you for supporting my small business!

Nana 🥧

Nana’s Bakery (To Place Your Orders)

nana@bakewithnana.com

bakewithnana.com

Related Posts:

8 Essential Pie Baking Tools and Accessories

8 Reasons Why I Love My Kitchen-Aid Mixer

The 6 Best Rolling PINS for Your Home

 

SUBSCRIBE LIKE AND SHARE
Remember to Subscribe, Like, and Share!
Posted on by — 3 Comments

Nana’s Sweet Potato Pie a Southern Treat

Nana's Sweet Potato Pie
Nana’s Sweet Potato Pie

** This post also contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you purchase a product after clicking on a link at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Nothing says comfort food quite like “Nana’s Sweet Potato Pie a Southern Treat”. This easy-to-follow recipe will deliver a mouthwatering Southern treat no one can deny!

Treat your family to a classic Southern favorite with Nana’s sweet potato pie. Made with just the right mix of spices and sugar, this sweet recipe is sure to be a hit with anyone lucky enough to take a bite!

1. But First, Make Your Pie Crust

Pie Crust for Nana's Sweet Potato Pie a Southern Treat

Don’t let this freak you out! It really is easier than you think, but of course with anything you do, practice makes perfect. FYI: Do not bake pie this pie shell! It will bake with your Sweet Potato Pie filling.

For Nana’s Never Fell Pie Crust, you will need:

Directions:

  1. STIR flour and salt in large bowl until blended. Cut shortening into flour mixture using pastry blender or fork until shortening pieces are the size of peas. Gradually add just enough water, 1 Tbsp. at a time, stirring with fork just until dough holds together and forms a smooth ball. 
  2. SHAPE dough into a ball for single pie crust. Divide dough in half and shape it into two balls for double crust pie. Flatten into one-half inch disk(s). Wrap disk(s) in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Chill 30 minutes or up to 2 days. 
  3. ROLL dough on lightly floured surface, rolling from center outward. For a 9-inch pie plate, roll into an 11-inch circle. For a 9 1/2-inch deep-dish pie plate, roll into a 12-inch circle. Transfer dough to pie plate. 
  4. Trim edges of dough flute edges as desired. Cut several 1/2-inch slits in top crust to vent steam. Bake pie according to specific recipe directions.

2. Gather & Measure Ingredients

Gather the Ingredients for Nana's Sweet Potato Pie a Southern Treat

FYI: I wrap my potatoes in aluminum foil and boil them on top of my stove for about 30-40 minutes until or until tender. To me this is quicker than baking them in the oven, plus they are a lot juicier.

For Nana’s sweet potato pie, you will need to measure out the following ingredients:

  • 4 large, sweet potatoes, or 2 cups
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup of melted butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1-9-inch-deep dish pie shell, unbaked.

3. Mix Your Ingredients

Kitchen Aid Mixer for Mixing Nana's Sweet Potato Pie a Southern Treat

Peel and mash up your cooked sweet potatoes using the whisk from your mixer. Next, add all your ingredients that you have measured out to your sweet potatoes in the mixing bowl of your stand mixer.   Mix all the ingredients at once until well incorporated with the wire whisk.

4. Preheat the Oven

Preheated Oven to Cook Nana's Sweet Potato Pie a Southern Treat

Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F. Once the oven is heated, you can pour your sweet potato mixture into your prepared pie shell. Place pie plate on pizza stone (if you have one) and bake in 350-degree oven for 60 minutes or until the toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Note: If you have a pizza stone, I highly recommend using one to bake your pies if you don’t have one. It cooks the pies evenly and eliminates the soggy bottom crust. Makes your pies even more delicious.

5. Cool & Store

Cooling Racks to Cool Nana's Sweet Potato Pie a Southern Treat

When you take your pie out, place it on a cake cooling rack before serving. This will give the pie time to “rest” and it will be much easier to cut.

Now that you have cut your pie and enjoyed it, it’s time to store it in an airtight container and place it in the fridge.

6. Now, Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labor!

Sweet Potato Pie and Coffee

Now that you have created this delicious southern treat, you need to grab some coffee for you and your guests and indulge in the sweetness of this awesome pie.

Conclusion of “Nana’s Sweet Potato Pie – A Delicious Southern Treat”

Assorted PIes

I hope you enjoyed “Nana’s Sweet Potato Pie – A Delicious Southern Treat” as much as I enjoyed putting it together for you.

My hope is that you will make both recipes because there is nothing quite like homemade desserts to make for a delightful day. I promise you that you and your family are going to love this pie!

No time to bake? Let me do it for you! Visit my shop at Nana’s Bakery to place your orders. I have this same pie in my shop that I can bake for you plus cakes, cookies, and other pie flavors.

Thank you for supporting my small business!

Nana 🥧

Nana’s Bakery (To Place Your Orders)

nana@bakewithnana.com

bakewithnana.com

Related Posts:

What Are the Best Pie Baking Apples?

How To Make the Perfect Pie Filling

How to Make the Perfect Pie Crust

SUBSCRIBE LIKE AND SHARE
Remember to Subscribe, Like, and Share!
Posted on by — 2 Comments

8 Essential Pie Baking Tools and Accessories

Essential Pie Baking Tools and Accessories

** This post also contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you purchase a product after clicking on a link at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Get the perfect pie every time with these “8 Essential Pie Baking Tools and Accessories.” Whip up delicious desserts for your family or friends!

Baking a delicious pie doesn’t have to be a mystery. With the right tools, you can nail even complicated recipes and make a show-stopping dessert with ease. From must-have pastry cutters to handy rolling pins, here are eight essential pie baking accessories for your kitchen. Enjoy!

1. A Deep-Dish Pie Dish

Deep Dish Pie Dish for Essential Pie Baking Tools and Accessories

A good pie dish is an essential tool for baking pies. When choosing a pie dish, you should consider the material it’s made from – glass or ceramic dishes work well for baking and give even heat distribution. The size of your dish will depend on the type of pie recipe you’re making, but most require a 9–10-inch diameter dish.

Buy Now

2. Rolling Pin

Farberware Classic Wood Rolling Pin is Part of Essential Pie Baking Tools and Accessories

A rolling pin is necessary for making tasty and evenly rolled pie crusts. Choose a wooden or marble pin so that it can last you for years to come. Rolling pins come in a variety of sizes and thicknesses, so it’s important to pick one that best fits your needs – a thicker rolling pin will work better for larger projects.

Buy Now

3. Pie Weights

Pie Weights is one of the Essential Pie Baking Tools and Accessories

Pie weights, also known as pie beads or ceramic baking beans, help to prevent puffing and bubbling when blind baking your crust by evenly distributing heat into the dough. Ceramic weights are re-usable and safer than dried beans or uncooked rice which can burn in the oven. Pie weights provide stability during baking to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.

Buy Now

4. Pastry Brush

Pastry Brushes for Essential Pie Baking Tools and Accessories

A pastry brush is one of the most important tools in a baker’s arsenal, especially when it comes to making the perfect pie. A pastry brush can be used to spread glaze or egg wash on the top of a pie crust, or to brush away any excess flour before transferring your dough into a tin. It’s a must-have tool for anyone looking to get creative in the kitchen!

Buy Now

5. Measuring Cups and Spoons

Measuring Spoons and Cups for Essential Pie Baking Tools and Accessories

When baking a delicious pie, accuracy is key! With measuring cups and spoons, you can easily measure out the perfect amount of ingredients for your recipes. With these tools, you have more control over the quantity of each ingredient going into your pie so that it turns out exactly right every time. Plus, measuring cups and spoons come in a variety of styles and sizes to make sure you can find the perfect one for your needs.

Buy Now

6. Pizza Stone

Nordic Ware Pizza Stone Part of the Essential Pie Baking Tools and Accessories

A pizza stone is the key to getting your delicious pies done through and through. No more soggy bottoms! The pizza stone helps to cook the pie evenly so that you wind up with a crispy delicious pie crust every time. So, you need to invest in one of these. They are inexpensive and will be one of the best baking tools for your baking accessories.

Buy Now

7. Cooling Racks

Dessert Cooling Racks a Must Have for Essential Pie Baking Tools and Accessories

Cooling racks are another valuable tool in a baker’s arsenal, especially when it comes to cooling your pies and other desserts. These racks can be used to not only cool your pies, but can cool cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and more. It’s a must-have tool for any baker’s kitchen!

Buy Now

8. Pie Crust Shield

Wilton Pie Crust Shield for Essential Pie Baking Tools and Accessories

No more wrestling with aluminum foil to try and cover the edges of your pie crust. A pie crust shield helps to prevent the edges of your pie crust from burning resulting in a beautiful golden pie. Pie crust shields are re-usable and are made from 100% food grade silicone. The pie crust shield is easy to use and adjusts to fit your pie size perfectly.

Buy Now

Conclusion of “8 Essential Pie Baking Tools and Accessories”

Sweet Potato Pie with Pie Sheild
Wilton Pie Shield
Sweet Potato Pie after Using Pie Shield
Cooked Sweet Potato Pie Using Wilton Pie Shield

I hope you enjoyed reading my “8 Essential Pie Baking Tools and Accessories.” If you love baking pies as much as I do, then you are going to need to get these baking tools. They will make a significant difference in how your pies turn out and taste.

FYI: This is a picture of my sweet potato pie before and after using the pie crust shield. Look how great it turned out! And I also used the pizza stone. It was delicious!

No time to bake this delicious pie? Let me do it for you! Visit Nana’s Bakery to place your order.

Thank you for supporting my small business!

Nana 🥧

Nana’s Bakery (To Place Your Orders)

nana@bakewithnana.com

bakewithnana.com

Related Posts:

How to Make the Perfect Pie Crust

How To Make the Perfect Pie Filling

What Are the Best Pie Baking Apples?

SUBSCRIBE LIKE AND SHARE
Remember to Subscribe, Like, and Share!
Posted on by — 9 Comments

“Which Flour Should I Use?”

Swans Down Cake Flour

** This post also contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you purchase a product after clicking on a link at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

If you have ever asked the question, “Which Flour Should I Use?” Trust me, you are not alone. Today we are going to focus on Self-Rising Flour, Plain Flour, and Cake Flour.

Why does it matter which flour I use? I was recently asked this question and immediately thought, “It depends on what I’m making.”

For one recipe it could be all-purpose flour, and for another time it could be self-rising or cake flour. But why do I need to use a specific flour for each recipe? This is a simple answer, but worth exploring.

Let’s look at three commonly available flours that bakers need to know about: Self-Rising Flour, Plain Flour, and Cake Flour. Now that being said, after years of baking, I do have the favorites that I will share with you later in this post.

In the article, “Which Flour Should I Use?” I am going to help you learn about each of these types of flour and the best way to use it so that your desserts will be perfect.

Flour is a staple ingredient in my kitchen. I use at least one type of flour in all my cooking and baking. And as with all things, I’m sure I’m not the only one who has ever asked the question, “Which flour do I use?”

Three Main Flours any Baker Should Have in Their Kitchen

1. Self-Rising Flour

White Lily Unbleached Self-Rising Flour part of my "Which Flour Should I Use?"

Self-rising Flour is a mixture of flour and leavening agents. In the United States, this type of flour is marketed under the names: Self-Rising Flour, Self-Rising Cake Flour, or All-Purpose Flour. In other countries, it’s called Self-rising Flour or Raising Flour.

2. Plain Flour

White Lily All Purpose Flour another of "Which Flour Should I Use?"

All-Purpose Flour is exactly as the name implies. It is plain and does not contain any leavening agents. It is an excellent choice for items that you do not want to rise such as roux or batter for fried foods. 

3. Cake Flour

Pillsbury Soft Silk Cake Flour part of "Which Flour Should I Use?"

Cake Flour is a soft flour with low protein content, typically 12-15%. It produces tender cakes because of its low protein content. I use this to make my pound cakes.

Let’s Look at What Each One is Best Used for

1. Self-Rising Flour

Marhta White Self-Rising Flour another of my "Which Flour Should I Use?"

Self-Rising Flour is best used for (low protein) products that should be light, like biscuits, pie crust, muffins, and most cakes.

2. All-Purpose Flour

Martha White All-Purpose Flour one of my "Which Flour Should I Use?"

All-Purpose Flour is best used for (medium protein) products that will be handled during baking like cakes, cookies, and pie crust. Personally, I like all-purpose flour best for my pie crust.

3. Cake Flour

Swans Down Cake Flour part of "Which Flour Should I Use?"

Cake Flour (high protein) is for products that should be tender and fine like angel food cake, sponge cake, and pound cake.

Conclusion of “Which Flour Should I Use?”

I hope you enjoyed reading “Which Flour Should I Use?” and that it has cleared up any questions you may have had.

Now that you are educated on these three types of flour, get baking! Let me know what you think. Leave me a comment below, I would love to hear from you!

No time to bake? Let me do it for you! Visit Nana’s Bakery and place your order(s).

Thank you for supporting my small business!

Nana 👩‍🍳

Nana’s Bakery (To Place Your Orders)

nana@bakewithnana.com 

bakewithnana.com 

Related Posts:

8 Reasons Why I Love My Kitchen-Aid Mixer

How to Make Delicious Homemade Pound Cake

6 Tips for Making the Perfect Cake

SUBSCRIBE LIKE AND SHARE
Remember to Subscribe, Like, and Share!
Posted on by — 8 Comments

The 6 Best Rolling PINS for Your Home

Assorted Rolling Pins

** This post also contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you purchase a product after clicking on a link at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

The 6 Best Rolling PINS for Your Home come in assorted sizes and shapes, making them ideal for many uses.

 A rolling pin is an essential kitchen tool that helps roll out dough, shape cookies, and create other baked goods. Here are six of the best rolling pins on the market today.

Whether you’re a hobby baker, a caterer, or a professional chef, there is a rolling pin out there perfect for you.

Things You Need to Consider Before Purchasing a Rolling Pin

1. Wooden Style

Do you want the classic wooden rolling pin with handles, or would you prefer a rod (which is made from a single piece of material)? There again it really depends on what you are using it for. For me, I prefer the wooden rolling pin with handles. I have more control and it rolls out my cookie dough and pie dough wonderfully.

2. French Style

This one is best used on delicate pastry dough. They are lighter and easier to move around for precise rolling.

3. Marble Style

The marble style is best used on doughs that have butter in them that are meant to stay cold, however, marble is very heavy and can be costly.

4. Plastic Style

It is much easier to clean up because they are usually dishwasher safe but do not last as long.

5. Steel Style

It is light in the weight department and easy to clean, but nowhere near as attractive as wood or marble.

6. Silicone Style

It is perfect for cookie dough, pizza dough, fondant dough, and many pastas. It has secure handles made of wood, so that you can apply maximum pressure to your dough. Extremely easy to clean up.

It all boils down to your preference of the style you would prefer to use. Like I stated earlier, I prefer the wooden rolling pin with handles. I have been using it for years. And trust me when I say years, and it looks as good as it did the day, I bought it. It’s easy to clean and it is heat resistant.

Nana’s 6 Top Rolling Pins

1. My Favorite Classic: Farberware Classic Wood Rolling Pin

Farberware Classic Wood Rolling Pin, 17.75-Inch, Natural one of The 6 Best Rolling PINS for Your Home

This one is by far my favorite one! This classic wooden rolling pin has the right to be at the top of the rolling pin chain. The wooden ones have been around for years and prove that they are still better at getting the job done. Rolls dough out easily and evenly while making clean up a breeze. Although you can’t stick it in the dishwasher, all you need to do is use a little soap and wipe it dry.

Buy on Amazon for $9.99

2. French Style: Kerryyoung Wooden Rolling Pin

French Style Rolling Pin another of The 6 Best Rolling PINS for Your Home

This rolling pin is made from rubber wood for long-lasting durability with a classic French design. It is made for use in your home or in restaurants for tough heavy-duty jobs every day. You can use this pastry rolling pin to roll out cookie dough, pizza dough, fondants and much more.

Buy on Amazon for $9.95

3. Marble Style: Fox Run Polished Marble

Marble Style: Fox Run Polished Marble on of my picks of Marble Style: Fox Run Polished Marble

The marble style, besides its beautiful, elegant look, helps keep your dough cool while you roll it out with ease. It can be used to roll out cookie dough, pizza dough, bread dough, and much more. Quite easy to clean up since the dough will not stick to its slick surface. Comes with a decorative wooden stand for display in your kitchen.

Buy on Amazon for $20.99

4. Wilton Large Plastic Rolling Pin

Wilton Large Fondant Rolling Pin another pick of Marble Style: Fox Run Polished Marble

Wilton large plastic (fondant) rolling pin is great for rolling out substantial amounts of fondant for a tiered cake. It’s also great for rolling out cookie dough, and pastry dough. Comes with guided color-coded rings to help you get the perfect thickness every time. Because of its smooth slick surface clean-up is a snap.

Buy on Amazon for $29.19

5. Kitchen Aid Gourmet Rolling Pin

KitchenAid Gourmet Rolling Pin, One Size, Red part of Marble Style: Fox Run Polished Marble

This elegant rolling pin by Kitchen Aid is ideal for rolling out your thickest cookie dough, pizza dough, biscuit dough, and pie dough. It has an extra-wide carbon steel barrel with a non-stick coating to help you get the job done. Clean up? It’s a breeze. No dish washer though, you will need to hand wash with mild detergent, rinse, and dry immediately.

Buy on Amazon for $19.52

6. NASNAIOLL Silicone Rolling Pin Non-stick Surface

NASNAIOLL Silicone Rolling Pin another of The 6 Best Rolling PINS for Your Home

This silicone rolling pin by Nasnaioll is great for rolling out cookie dough, pastries, handmade noodles, pizza dough, fondants, and other pastas.

Lightweight, but durable. Made with food-grade non-stick silicone material to last for many years and it makes cleaning up easy.

Can be put in the top rack of a dish washer, but hand washing is highly recommended. Plus, you get a smaller rolling pin for your little bakers, so you can teach the kiddo’s how to roll out cookie dough for fun time with family.

Buy on Amazon for $11.99

Conclusion of the 6 Best Rolling PINS for Your Home

I think any one of the above “The 6 Best Rolling PINS for Your Home” would be great for you, but I guess I’m old school because I still prefer the Classic Wooden one.

Check them all out carefully and pick the one that is right for you. Enjoy!

No time to bake? Let me do it for you! Visit Nana’s Bakery and place your order(s).

Thank you for supporting my small business!

Nana 🍰

Nana’s Bakery (To Place Your Orders)

nana@bakewithnana.com 

bakewithnana.com 

Related Posts:

“Which Flour Should I Use?”

How to Make the Perfect Pie Crust

10 Best Tips to Create Perfect Cookies

SUBSCRIBE LIKE AND SHARE
Remember to Subscribe, Like, and Share!
Posted on by — 4 Comments

8 Things Bakers Should Know Before Baking

Frustrated Baker

** This post also contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you purchase a product after clicking on a link at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

You don’t have to be an expert baker to bake delicious treats. In fact, baking is one of the easiest things to do. Read on to discover 8 Things Bakers Should Know Before Baking.

Baking is a term that describes many diverse types of food preparation techniques. Some people call this type of cooking baking while others call it pastry or custard making.

The word bake comes from the Old English word for bread, which was called Half or loaf. This means cooking something in a hot oven.

Are you ready for 8 Things Bakers Should Know Before Baking? Let’s do it!

1. You need a little extra dough.

Cookie Dough Part of 8 Things Bakers Should Know Before Baking

When you are baking, there are instances when you will need to use more dough than the recipe calls for. This is especially true when it comes to cookies.

If you are making chocolate chip cookies, you will need to use more dough than the recipe calls for to make all your cookies about the same size.

If you use too much dough for your mold, just use the extra dough and make a few smaller cookies or roll it out and create your own cookie-cutter shapes.

2. You will always forget something.

Woman Forgot Something On Her Shopping List another one of 8 Things Bakers Should Know Before Baking

Yes, unfortunately, you will always forget something you need for your recipe. I have been baking for many years, and I forget stuff all the time! Always make a grocery list to help you remember things.

So frustrating. Luckily, my hubby is kind enough to go to the store for me and get what I need. But the good news is you can always be getting other things ready for your baking.

You know, like measuring your ingredients, getting your pans oiled and floured, pre-heating the oven, etc.

3. You will need extra stuff.

Collection of Pans that 8 Things Bakers Should Know Before Baking Mentions

If you bake a lot of cakes like I do, especially around the holidays, you will need more than two round pans for sure. That way you can get your cakes done even faster.

I got tired of baking two layers and having to wait for the pans I was using for the next cake. Long story short, I have two of every pan I use so that I don’t run into this problem.

I also have three sets of measuring cups, three sets of measuring spoons, and several spatulas. It just makes baking easier for me.

4. Please follow the recipe step by step!

Follow the Recipe Step by Step is one of My Crucial 8 Things Bakers Should Know Before Baking

Trust me, when I tell you to do this, follow the recipe! If it tells you to mix the dry ingredients first, PLEASE do that. If it tells you to add one egg at a time and mix well before adding another egg, you’d better do it. Or I promise you terrible things will happen to your cake!

For instance, it won’t rise as it should. It will be heavy and dense, and it won’t be moist and delicious. I know this sounds crazy, but the recipe is in steps for a reason. Just do it, ok?

You will be glad you did it in the end. There’s nothing worse than spending time and energy on a cake to have it flop and you must start all over again.

Plus, it is a huge waste of supplies like flour, sugar, oil, eggs, etc. Do you get the picture?

5. Don’t open the oven door!

The Sunken Cake

Yep, you read that right. Don’t open the oven before the cake is done or it will sink in the middle. And you can’t fix that! Of course, your kids will love it because they have a nice little unexpected snack.

It’s always better to let it get done before you open the oven to avoid this mishap. Also, don’t let the kids run or stomp through the kitchen or it will make your cake sink in the middle as well.

At least that’s what my mama always told me. And mamas know best, right? 🤔

6. You will have lots of dirty dishes.

Dirty Dishes

Yes, this is sooo true. But luckily, I have a hubby that is willing to help me clean up not only the dishes, but the kitchen.

Let me tell you, I can make quite a mess when I am baking, especially cakes. Give me flour, sugar, and friend it’s on. I must spill the flour and sugar when measuring them.

My poor hubby went to the store for me (because of course I had forgotten something) and when he came back, he was like, “What in the world did you do?”

There was flour from one side of my counter to the other! 😂 I said, “Well honey you know how I am with the flour and sugar, sorry!” Oh, I also get crap on the floor too.

7. The cakes need to cool completely.

Cooling The Cakes

People, I promise you, you must let the cake cool completely before you can apply the frosting or icing. It will run off if the cake is still the least bit warm. Guess who found out the hard way. 😒 I know, live and learn I always say.

Next, I like to make a crumb coat, which is a thin layer of frosting, and then I put the cake in the fridge or freezer for about 20-30 minutes.

This keeps all those annoying crumbs out of your frosting. Then your cake will look wonderful.

8. Don’t be hard on yourself.

If You Wait For Perfect You'll Never Get Anything Done!

Don’t be hard on yourself if you mess up. It’s ok. Just learn from your mistakes and keep on baking. I have been baking for years and still make mistakes.

But guess what? The next time you will remember what you did wrong and correct it. Unfortunately, that’s how we learn to be better bakers and become better at anything we do.

We mess up, we learn, and move on. So, enjoy baking and have fun with it!

Conclusion of 8 Things Bakers Should Know Before Baking

CAKE AND COFFEE

I hope this helps you avoid some of the many mistakes I have made during my baking years. I still make mistakes from time to time, but my love for baking outweighs the mistakes I have made and will continue to make.

Like I said, just have fun with it and keep on baking.

Do you have any baking mistakes you would like to share with me? I would love to hear about them.

Thank you for supporting my small business!

Nana 🍰

Bake with Nana’s Shop (To Place Your Orders)

nana@bakewithnana.com

bakewithnana.com

Related Posts:

8 Cake Pans You Need to Have in Your Kitchen

6 Tips for Making the Perfect Cake

SUBSCRIBE LIKE AND SHARE
Remember to Subscribe, Like, & Share!

Posted on by — 3 Comments

10 Ways to Save Money and Time

Save Time and Money

** This post also contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you purchase a product after clicking on a link at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

10 Ways to Save Money and Time will help you discover the secrets to saving money and time while grocery shopping.

These days we “All” need to find ways to save money and time. With the prices of groceries, gas, and everything else skyrocketing, we need ways to save our money and get more bang for our buck. And ways to save our time.

So, I have put together a list of things that I use to save money and time. Some of these will inspire you to save money too.

Are you ready to get started? Let’s get to it…

10 Ways to Save Money and Time

1. Shop sales always

Grocery Sale is a great part of 10 Ways to Save Money and Time

 You never know when there are going to be mega sales at your favorite store until you check out their site on a regular basis.

2. Do not buy things at full price

Shop Big Sales is another awesome way 10 Ways to Save Money and Time

 If there is something you are thinking of purchasing, wait for it to go on sale before you buy it. This includes clothing, shoes, accessories, furniture, appliances, and even food.  I always wait for sale times before I make my purchases-I save tons of money this way.

3. Always look for coupons online

Clip Coupons is part of the 10 Ways to Save Money and Time

If you are looking for coupons online, do not limit yourself to the sites that offer the coupons that you want. There are many other sites that can provide you with great coupons that can save you money on things that you were planning to buy anyway.

4. Create a meal plan for the week

Creating a Meal Plan for the Week is another great tip from 10 Ways to Save Money and Time

Do this before you do your shopping. My goodness, you have no idea how much time this will save you! Get your meal planner here.

5. Make a detailed grocery list from your meal plan

Making a Detailed Grocery List is an awesome tip from 10 Ways to Save Money and Time

This way when you get to the grocery store you want to try to figure out what you need for the week. Such a big-time saver and this will help you to save money because you don’t want to be buying unnecessary items you really didn’t need. Get your grocery list here.

6. Make Freezer Meals

Another Time Saver are Freezer Meals from 10 Ways to Save Money and Time

Make freezer meals ahead of time. This is a big-time saver especially if you are a busy mom taking kids to and from school, taking them to play sports, to practice, etc. You just set the frozen meal out for 20-30 minutes and pop it in the oven to cook for the time your recipe specifies.

7. Shop the perimeter of the store first

Fruits And Veggies

 Fruit, Vegetables, Dairy, Frozen Foods, and Meat sections, as these sections have fewer processed foods, preservatives, and more natural ingredients.

8. Shop only once a week

Weekly Savings

 On the same day, each week. By shopping regularly, you will have a feel for how much you need to buy that week and you will also see how prices change on a weekly basis, which is helpful when you are watching your spending.

9. Buy in bulk using my 10 Ways to Save Money and Time

Lady Buying Toilet Paper

When it makes sense or buy generic when possible. My husband and I share vegetables, soups, bread, toilet paper, paper towels, etc. when we buy in bulk with family members which helps us all save money. And they do the same for us.

10. Use a mix for part of the recipe

Onions And Garlic

Oftentimes a mix will be cheaper than buying all the ingredients separately. While you can use a mix for half of a recipe, adjust the other ingredients accordingly. You can also substitute alternative ingredients for the featured ones. If a recipe calls for onions or garlic that are out of season, or if you just don’t have any on hand, try using shallots or garlic powder instead.

Conclusion of 10 Ways to Save Money and Time

There you have it. I hope you enjoyed 10 Ways to Save Money and Time as much as I enjoyed sharing this with you. This will help you as much as it has me.

I would love to know if you tried this and how much it helped you. Do you have anything to contribute to my 10 ways to save money and time? If you do, please share below.

Thank you for supporting my small business!

Nana👩‍🍳

Nana’s Bakery (To Place Your Orders)

nana@bakewithnana.com

bakewithnana.com

Related Posts:

10 Tips for Baking with Your Kids

10 Tips for a Productive Kitchen

5 Tips to Baking with Your Grandkids

SUBSCRIBE LIKE AND SHARE
Remember to Subscribe, Like, & Share!
Posted on by — 5 Comments

How To Make the Perfect Pie Filling

Apple Pie- How To Make the Perfect Pie Filling

** This post also contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you purchase a product after clicking on a link at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

 

 

How To Make the Perfect Pie Filling is easy if you follow these eight tips. Get ready to impress everyone with your new skills.

I don’t know about you, but I love homemade apple pie. There’s is nothing like a moist delicious apple pie with vanilla ice cream on top.

I must admit, I don’t make apple pie very often. But when I do make it, it’s a showstopper. And that’s because I’m not using a store-bought pie filling. Nope, when I bake an apple pie, I make my own filling from scratch. It’s easy to do and the taste is way better than the stuff in a jar or can.

When you are making your pie filling, start with about 6 or 7 apples. The more apples that you use the more moisture your pie will have. We want to make sure that there is a nice layer of apples in our pie so cut them into small pieces before you add them to the bowl.

I like to cut mine up into bite size pieces. It makes it so much easier to cut and eat. Along with making your pie filling homemade, don’t forget to check out my recipe for Nana’s Never Fell Pie Crust for the best and only pie crust recipe you will ever need. I promise! 

Follow these simple steps for perfect pie filling every time. Enjoy!

 

5 TIPS TO THE PERFECT PIE FILLING

 

1. Start by Making Sure Your Ingredients are at Room Temperature

Thermomater

The first step to making a perfect pie filling is to ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature. If you use frozen fruit, thaw it before adding it to the mix. Leave them out for about 20-30 minutes.

Also, if you’re using canned fruits, drain them well before mixing into the filling.

 

2. Measure Out Your Flour and Sugar First

Measure The Ingredients

The second step in making a perfect pie filling is measuring out your ingredients. If you measure out your flour and sugar before adding anything else, you won’t end up with too much liquid or dry ingredients.

You want to add enough water to create a thick paste, but not so much that it becomes gluey.

 

3. Add Your Eggs One at a Time, Beating After Each Addition

Kitchen Aid Mixer

The third step in making a perfect pie filling is to add your eggs one at a time. Beat them until well combined.

Next, add your sugar slowly, stirring constantly. Once the mixture has thickened slightly, add your flour and salt. Mix thoroughly. Finally, stir in your vanilla extract.

You can either use fresh fruit or frozen fruit. Either way, use a food chopper to chop it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the pie filling.

 

4. Now Add Your Fruit

Diced Apples

The fourth step is the fun part – adding your fruit. Now that you have your fruit cut up into small pieces it will easily fit into your measuring cup.

Add your fruit to your mixing bowl and then pour your liquid ingredients over top. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.

 

5. Avoid Soggy Bottom Pie Crust

Nordic Ware Pizza Stone

The fifth step is to avoid your crust from becoming soggy. To prevent this, you need to invest in a Pizza Stone. I just recently found out about this, and it is amazing.

You will get an evenly baked pie crust that will not be soggy. Pizza Stones are inexpensive and worth every penny!

 

6. Prevent Pie Filling Becoming Watery

Pie Filling

The sixth step is preventing your pie filling from becoming too watery. Make sure you have your pie crust ready to fill right after you get through mixing the ingredients up. The longer the pie filling sits the watery it gets.

 

7. Have Your Pie Crust Ready to Fill

Pie Crust

The seventh step is to have your pie crust ready to be filled once you have the pie filling finished and ready to bake.

You need to make your pie crust in advance, so your pie filling doesn’t have to sit and wait for you to make the crust.

Remember, the longer the pie filling sits, the watery it gets.

 

8. Baking the Pie

375 Degree Oven

Last, but not least, make sure to pre-heat your oven to the temperature specified in the recipe. Then place your pie dish on the pizza stone in the middle of the oven and bake the required time.

Also, you may want to invest in a Pie Crust Shield. These are inexpensive and well worth the few dollars you spend. The shield prevents the edges of your pie crust from burning.

 

Conclusion of How to Make the Perfect Pie Filling

Coffee and Apple Pie

I hope you enjoyed reading “How to Make the Perfect Pie Filling” and will try it. Homemade pies are much more delicious than store bought ones.

I hope this encourages you to take your baking to the next level and never ever give up! The baking world is only a mixer or whisk away.

Now get your baking on girl and show your family how good you are! You can do this! 😁

 

Thank you for supporting my small business!

Nana 🥧

Nana’s Bakery (To Place Your Orders) 

nana@bakewithnana.com 

bakewithnana.com 

Related Posts:

Nana’s Never Fell Pie Crust

10 Tips for a Productive Kitchen

10 Must-Have Kitchen Tools Everyone Needs

 

 

 

SUBSCRIBE LIKE AND SHARE
Remember to Subscribe, Like, and Share!

Posted on by — 10 Comments

How to Make the Perfect Pie Crust

Easy Flaky Pie Crust

** This post also contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you purchase a product after clicking on a link at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Making pie crusts is easy if you know what you’re doing. In this article, How to Make the Perfect Pie Crust, I will teach you everything you need to know about making perfect pie crusts.

When people ask me what my favorite dessert is, I never give them a clear answer because I love them all! For me, no dessert beats a piece of pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s the ultimate comfort food.

However, pie making can be daunting for some. It’s not easy to make a perfect pie in one try. So, I’m here to help!

The type of pie you’re making will affect the crust you make. There are different crusts for different pies. Short crust pastry is flaky and buttery, perfect for custard pies, such as lemon meringue, and fruit pies such as apple or cherry.

The best part about this pastry is that it’s very forgiving. The short crust pastry will turn out perfect even if you don’t follow instructions properly. On the other hand, American-style pie crust has an extra layer of fat between the crust and the filling to keep it moist and tender.

Today you are going to learn how to make the perfect pie crust that comes out soft, flakey, and delicious! You won’t have to throw away any more pies because they come out hard or tough.

The pie crust recipe I am sharing with you today will make the perfect pie crust every time. I have the best tips for making this pie crust and would like to share them with you.

7 Tried and True Tricks for a Soft Flakey Pie Crust

1. For a Tender Flakey Crust

Pie-How to Make the Perfect Pie Crust

You will want to use a ceramic pie plate or if you prefer aluminum make sure they are dull and not shiny. Shiny pie plates reflect heat, and the results are a soggy bottom pie crust.

I prefer the ceramic pie plate it cooks the pie better along with the pizza stone.

2. The Secret to No “Soggy Pie Crust“

Nordic Ware Pizza Stone used for How to Make the Perfect Pie Crust

I just recently learned an awesome way to make a perfectly cooked golden pie crust every time. Are you ready for it? A pizza stone! You read this correctly, a pizza stone.

I promise you they are not that expensive at all and well worth the money. You will never have Soggy Pie Crust Again! You set your pie plate right on the stone and let it work its magic.

3. Measure Your Ingredients

Measure The Ingredients for How to Make the Perfect Pie Crust

You should measure your flour by first stirring it a bit before you put it in your measuring cup. Over fill your measuring cup and then sweep the excess flour off with a curved spatula or you can use the flat edge of a butter knife.

4. Preventing the Pastry from Puffing Up

Pastry Weights part of How to Make the Perfect Pie Crust

To prevent puffing up the pastry while baking it, you can invest in some pastry weights as shown in the picture above. These keep the pastry from over expanding and blistering up.

Another alternative is to take the tines of a fork and poke holes in the bottom and sides of the pastry.

5. Don’t Overwork the Dough

Kitchen Aid Mixer With Dough Hook part of How to Make the Perfect Pie Crust

To prevent your dough from becoming tough, do not overwork it! Handle it as little as possible. The less you handle it the better. Using a mixer with a dough hook is best.

It incorporates the ingredients faster than mixing them by hand. This will ensure you do not over handle the dough.

6. Fluting the Edges

Fluted Pie Crust another of How to Make the Perfect Pie Crust

If you would like to flute the edges of your pastry, simply place thumb and index finger about one inch apart on outside of raised edge.

Use your other index finger to push pastry toward outside, continuing around edge. Repeating this motion will form a beautiful edge.

You can also take the tines of a fork and press down on the edges all away around the pastry to form another unique design.

7. Pie Crust Shield

Pie Crust Shield part of How to Make the Perfect Pie Crust

This is another great invention for bakers! The pie crust shield will keep the edges of your pie crust from burning. There is nothing worse than spending time and money on making a beautiful pie than having the edges turn black before the pie gets done!

They were not expensive and worth the money! Extremely easy to use.

Conclusion of How to Make the Perfect Pie Crust

Homemade pie crust tastes so much better than the store-bought ones. It is soft, flakey, and oh so delicious. Besides, the pie crust recipe I am about to give only has 4 ingredients! And it is for Single Crust, Double Crust, and Deep-Dish Double Crust. Which happens to be my favorite.

If you follow How to Make the Perfect Pie Crust, you will be making delicious pie crust that your family will rave about. Now that you know the tricks, get baking! 😉

To get the recipe download NANA’S “NEVER FELL PIE CRUST” for your best Apple Pie ever!

Nanas-Never-Fell-Pie-CrustDownload

**No time to bake? Let me do it for you! Visit Nana’s Bakery and place your order(s). **

Thank you for supporting my small business!

Nana 🥧

Nana’s Bakery (To Place Your Orders)

nana@bakewithnana.com 

bakewithnana.com 

Related Posts:

How To Make the Perfect Pie Filling

Nana’s 5 Favorite Pies

Baking Supplies: The Best of the Best

SUBSCRIBE LIKE AND SHARE
Remember to Subscribe, Like, and Share!
Posted on by — Leave a comment

What is Blind Baking Pie Crust?

Pie Crust

** This post also contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you purchase a product after clicking on a link at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

“What is Blind Baking Pie Crust?” Blind baking pie crusts are baked without sight or smell. They’re perfect for those who have allergies or other sensory issues.

They’re perfect for holiday parties or special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.

You won’t see the filling until after you’ve baked the crust. This method makes it easier to create a flaky, tender crust without having to worry about overworking the dough.

How To Make a Perfect Blind Pie Crust

Perfect Baked Blind Pie Crust for What Is Blind Baking Pie Crust?

A blind-baked pie crust is one where the filling is placed inside the dough after you bake it in the oven for about 15 minutes.

It’s a wonderful way to ensure a flaky, tender crust without having to worry about overbaking or underbaking.

1. Gather the Ingredients

Gather The Ingredients for What Is Blind Baking Pie Crust?

This recipe uses 4 ingredients for a delicious treat. So, let’s start by gathering your ingredients: flour, salt, shortening, and ice water.

2. Measuring the Ingredients 

Measure The Ingredients for What Is Blind Baking Pie Crust?

You have all your ingredients together, start measuring them out as directed by the recipe. Now comes the fun part!  

3. Mixing the Ingredients

Mixing up the ingredients for What Is Blind Baking Pie Crust?

Now that you have all your ingredients measured out, pour them into the mixing bowl of your stand mixer.   Mix the ingredients in the order described by the recipe, until well incorporated with the dough hook.

Once the dough has formed into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

4. Roll Out the Dough & Fill the Crust

French Rolling Pin to roll out the dough for What is Blind Baking Pie Crust?

After the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator, and let rest for 10 minutes before rolling it out using a rolling pin. You can use any type of pie filling, such as fruit, custard, chocolate, etc.

Roll out the dough between two pieces of parchment paper, then transfer it to a pie plate.

5. Baking the Pie Crust

Preheated Oven for baking my Blind Crust

To blind bake a pie crust, first preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Now, cover the top of the pie with Wilton’s Pie Crust Shield and place it in the oven for 15 minutes. Remove the pie crust shield and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Next, pour the pie filling of your choice into the prepared pie crust and cook the pie as directed by the pie filling of your choice.

When you take the pie out of the oven place it on a cake rack and let it cool completely. Store any leftovers on a pie plate and refrigerate.

Conclusion of “What is Blind Baking Pie Crust?”

Sweet Potatoe Pie is part of What is Blind Baking Pie Crust?

Follow my “What is Blind Baking Pie Crust?” directions and you will have a delicious no fuss flakey crust. Make one for your next family gathering and watch your family rave about how delicious it is. 

Get ready to impress your family at your next get-together. They will love this flakey pie crust and so will you! 

**No time to bake? Let me do it for you! Visit Nana’s Bakery to place your order(s). **

Thank you for supporting my small business!

Nana 🥧☕

Nana’s Bakery (To Place Your Orders)

nana@bakewithnana.com 

bakewithnana.com 

Related Posts:

What Are the Best Pie Baking Apples?

How To Make the Perfect Pie Filling

Top 6 Dough Blenders Review

SUBSCRIBE LIKE AND SHARE
Remember to Subscribe, Like, and Share!