Here are some steps to prepare a lattice top pie:
1. Make the pie crust:
The first step in preparing a lattice top pie is to make the crust. You can use your favorite pie crust recipe or store-bought crust. If you are making the crust from scratch, you will need flour, salt, butter, and cold water.
Mix the flour, salt, and butter in a food processor until it forms a coarse mixture. Then, add the cold water and pulse until the dough forms. Divide the dough into two and chill for at least an hour.
2. Roll out the dough:
Once the dough has chilled, roll it out thinly and transfer it to the pie dish. Trim the edges and set it aside.
3. Prepare the pie filling:
You can make any kind of traditional pie filling you like, such as apple, pumpkin, or cherry. Prepare the filling according to your recipe and pour it into the pie crust.
4. Weave the lattice strips:
Take the second ball of dough from the fridge and roll it out thinly. Cut the dough into even strips of about ½ inch wide.
Starting at the center of the pie, lay one strip of dough perpendicular to the first strip of dough across the filling. Then, fold back every other strip halfway, lay a strip of dough next to the first strip, and then fold the strips back down. Continue this process, weaving each strip of dough over and under the previous strip, until you have covered the entire pie.
5. Crimp the edges:
Carefully trim any excess dough around the edges of the pie dish. Gently press with the tines of a fork to seal the lattice strips to the crust.
6. Brush with egg wash:
In a small bowl, whisk one egg with a tablespoon of water, and brush it over the lattice top. This will give your pie a lovely golden color and help it to be shiny.
7. Bake the pie:
Preheat your oven to 375°F and place your pie in the middle of the oven. Bake for about 50 to 60 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles.
8. Cool the pie:
Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack. It’s important to allow the pie to cool completely before slicing into it.
In conclusion, preparing a lattice top pie is a fun and satisfying process that yields a beautiful and delicious dessert. With a little patience, practice, and attention to detail, you can master the art of weaving the pie dough strips over the top of your favorite pie filling to create a show-stopping dessert that everyone will love.