Garlic Rolls

A basket full of freshly baked garlic rolls.This homemade Garlic Rolls recipe gives you light, fluffy rolls with a delicious buttery garlic flavor. We brush a simple garlic butter on top before and after baking. They are flavorful and so addicting! Want more of my bread and roll recipes? Make sure to try Homemade Dinner Rolls, Artisan No Knead Bread, Cheesy Breadsticks,…

A basket full of freshly baked garlic rolls.

This homemade Garlic Rolls recipe gives you light, fluffy rolls with a delicious buttery garlic flavor. We brush a simple garlic butter on top before and after baking. They are flavorful and so addicting!

Want more of my bread and roll recipes? Make sure to try Homemade Dinner Rolls, Artisan No Knead Bread, Cheesy Breadsticks, and Garlic Knots!

A basket full of freshly baked Garlic butter rolls.

Garlic Rolls are as heavenly as they sound.

They’re soft and fluffy, with a delicious buttery garlic flavor. There are some recipes my family get tired of because I test them so many times, but no one ever complained about having these for dinner so many nights in a row. Good thing they pair beautifully with any main dish!

How to make Garlic Rolls:

Make Dough: Combine warm water, yeast, and ¼ tsp sugar and stir. Allow to rest for 5 minutes until foamy on top. Pour yeast mixture into the bowl of an electric stand mixer (or into a large bowl if you plan on kneading by hand). Add ¼ cup sugar, softened butter, warm milk, egg and salt. Mix until combined. Stir in 1 cup of flour while mixing on low speed, and slowly add more flour until the dough pulls away from the sides and bottom of the bowl. You may not need all of the flour. Knead for 6-7 minutes until it’s smooth, elastic, and not overly sticky.

First Rise: Place in a large greased bowl, turning it over once to coat. Let it rise until double, about 1 ½ hours.

Two images showing ingredients for a bread dough in a bowl then after it's made into a dough and risen for garlic rolls.

Shape Dough: Divide the dough into 18 equal portions (I weigh the dough in grams and divide it by 18—usually around 70 grams for each dough ball). Roll into balls, pinching at the bottom where the seam comes together, so they are smooth and tight. Arrange rolls an inch apart on a baker’s half sheet pan (18×13’’).

Second Rise: Cover with a light kitchen towel and allow to rise until doubled in size, about 1 ½ hours. (For quick rise, heat oven to 200 degrees F. Turn oven OFF, then place tray of rolls inside, covered, for about 30 min).

Two images showing how to make garlic rolls by shaping the dough into balls then brushing with parmesan butter.

Add Garlic Butter: Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix melted butter, garlic, Italian seasoning, and parsley to make the garlic butter. Gently brush garlic butter over risen rolls.

Bake for 14-16 minutes, until golden. Remove from oven and brush with remaining garlic butter.

Two images showing easy garlic rolls freshly baked and being brushed with a parmesan herb butter.

Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions:

To Make Ahead: Make the roll dough and place in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 1 day, before rolling into dough balls.

To Freeze Baked Rolls: Store baked rolls in an air-tight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature, or rewarm briefly in the oven of microwave. To Freeze Roll Dough: Place dough (before first rise) in an air-tight container in freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in the fridge or at room temperature before rolling and shaping. To freeze roll dough after the rolls have been shaped, place them on a baking sheet in the freezer for 30 minutes to “flash freeze”, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, arrange them on a baking tray and let them rise for several house, covered with a towel, at room temperature until double in size. Bake as instructed.

Recipe Variations:

  • Parmesan Garlic Rolls: When the rolls are just a few minutes away from finishing baking, remove from the oven, sprinkle with ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, then return to the oven for 2-3 minutes.

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A basket full of freshly baked garlic rolls.
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Garlic Rolls

We can't get enough of these light and fluffy homemade Garlic Rolls with a delicious garlic butter on top.
Course bread, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Rising Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 45 minutes
Servings 18 rolls
Calories 199kcal
Cost 3

Ingredients

Garlic Butter:

Instructions

  • Proof Yeast: Combine warm water, yeast, and ¼ tsp sugar and stir–allow to rest for 5 minutes until foamy on top. (If yeast doesn’t foam, discard and buy fresh yeast).
  • Mix Dough: Pour yeast mixture into the bowl of an electric stand mixer (or into a large bowl if you plan on kneading by hand). Add ¼ cup sugar, softened butter, warm milk, egg and salt. Mix until combined. Mix in 1 cup flour.
  • Knead: While mixing on low speed, slowly add additional flour, until the dough begins to pull away from the sides and bottom of the bowl. You may not use all of the flour called for. Knead/mix until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 6-7 minutes. The dough should be soft, but not overly sticky.
  • First Rise: Grease a large bowl with cooking spray or a tiny bit of oil. Place the dough in the bottom of the bowl and turn it over once to coat all sides in oil (this helps keep it from drying out.) Cover the bowl with a light kitchen towel and allow to rise until double in size, about 1 ½ hours.
  • Shape: Divide the dough into 18 equal portions (I weigh the dough in grams and divide it by 18—usually around 70 grams each dough ball). Roll into balls, pinching at the bottom where the seam comes together, so they are smooth and tight.
  • Second rise: Place rolls about an inch apart on a baker’s half sheet pan (18×13’’) and cover with a light kitchen towel and allow to rise until doubled in size, about 1 ½ hours. (or for quick rise, heat oven to 200 degrees F. Turn oven off, and place tray of rolls inside, covered, for about 30 min).
  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  • Garlic Butter: Mix melted butter, garlic Italian seasoning and parsley. Gently brush some of the mixture over risen rolls.
  • Bake: for 14-16 minutes, until golden. Remove from oven and brush the tops of the rolls with remaining garlic butter.

Notes

Make Ahead Instructions: Make the roll dough then place in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 1 day, before rolling out and shaping.
To Freeze Baked Rolls: Store baked rolls in an air-tight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature, or rewarm briefly in the oven of microwave.
To Freeze Dough: Place dough (before first rise) in an air-tight container in freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in the fridge or at room temperature before rolling and shaping. To freeze roll dough after the rolls have been shaped, place them on a baking sheet in the freezer for 30 minutes to “flash freeze”, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, arrange them on a baking tray and let them rise for several house, covered with a towel, at room temperature until double in size. Bake as instructed.
Variations:
Parmesan Garlic Rolls: When the rolls are just a few minutes away from finishing baking, remove from the oven, sprinkle with ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, then return to the oven for 2-3 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 199kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 29mg | Sodium: 256mg | Potassium: 73mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 240IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 2mg

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Pumpkin Dip

A creamy Pumpkin Pie Dip recipe in a bowl surrounded by a plate of gingersnap cookies.You can make this easy Pumpkin Dip recipe in less than 10 minutes with just 4 simple ingredients. We love to serve it with gingersnap cookies, sliced apples, or cinnamon graham crackers. Check out all of my pumpkin recipes, like Pumpkin Roll, Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, Pumpkin Spice Eggnog, and Pumpkin Waffles! Ingredients Needed: How…

A creamy Pumpkin Pie Dip recipe in a bowl surrounded by a plate of gingersnap cookies.

You can make this easy Pumpkin Dip recipe in less than 10 minutes with just 4 simple ingredients. We love to serve it with gingersnap cookies, sliced apples, or cinnamon graham crackers.

Check out all of my pumpkin recipes, like Pumpkin Roll, Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, Pumpkin Spice Eggnog, and Pumpkin Waffles!

A creamy Pumpkin Pie Dip recipe in a bowl surrounded by a plate of gingersnap cookies.

Gigi’s Pumpkin Dip is a seasonal staple.

Thanks to my husband’s Grandmother “Gigi”, this pumpkin dip has been beloved in his family for the longest time; we make it every year during the fall and holiday season. It’s a knock-out served with Gingersnap Cookies dipped in it, but you can get creative with your dipper of choice. Got four ingredients and five minutes? Here we go:

Ingredients Needed:

All of the ingredients needed to make the best pumpkin dip recipe: powdered sugar, pumpkin pie puree, cream cheese, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves.

How to make Pumpkin Dip:

Beat room temperature cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth then slowly add the pumpkin pie puree, mixing until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and cloves then mix again until it’s a smooth consistency. Serve with our delicious gingersnap cookies, apple slices, or cinnamon graham crackers.

Two images showing a pumpkin dip with cream cheese when all of the ingredients are in a bowl then after they are mixed with a cookie being dipped.

More Yummy Dip Recipes:

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A creamy Pumpkin Pie Dip recipe in a bowl surrounded by a plate of gingersnap cookies.
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Pumpkin Dip

Delicious and easy Pumpkin Dip recipe with just 4 ingredients, and ready in minutes. Serve it with gingersnap cookies, sliced apples, or cinnamon graham crackers.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 96kcal
Cost $2

Ingredients

  • 4 ounces cream cheese , room temperature
  • 1 cup pumpkin pie puree
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

  • Add cream cheese to a mixing bowl and beat until smooth (it's important that the cream cheese is room temperature so it will mix smoothly into the batter). Slowly add pumpkin pie puree and mix until smooth. Add powdered sugar, cinnamon and cloves and mix until smooth.
  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Serve with gingersnap cookies, apple slices, cinnamon graham crackers or vanilla wafers.

Notes

Yield: about 1 ½ cups, Serving size: 2 Tablespoons
Pumpkin pie puree (often called pumpkin pie mix) is different from regular canned pumpkin puree. If you can’t find it, use regular canned pumpkin puree and add a small scoop of pumpkin pie spice to the batter, or a little additional cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and allspice, to taste.
 

Nutrition

Calories: 96kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 77mg | Potassium: 44mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 1994IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 0.3mg

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I originally shared this recipe October 2020. Updated November 2024.

Potatoes Au Gratin

Baked Potatoes Au Gratin, with some of it being lifted with a spoon.The best Potatoes Au Gratin recipe has layers of thin potatoes covered in a creamy, homemade cheese sauce. It’s a simple classic and impresses any guest. Want more side dishes? Make Air Fryer Baked Potato, Poutine, Quinoa Salad, and Roasted Vegetables! Au Gratin Potatoes vs Scalloped Potatoes: These two potato dishes are often confused since…

Baked Potatoes Au Gratin, with some of it being lifted with a spoon.

The best Potatoes Au Gratin recipe has layers of thin potatoes covered in a creamy, homemade cheese sauce. It’s a simple classic and impresses any guest.

Want more side dishes? Make Air Fryer Baked Potato, Poutine, Quinoa Salad, and Roasted Vegetables!

A pan of homemade Potatoes Au Gratin with a spoon lifting some up to serve.

The best Potatoes Au Gratin

If I could only pick one potatoes side dish for the holidays, it would be au gratin potatoes every time. It reminds me of delicious homemade mac and cheese, with it’s creamy and cheesy sauce–with potatoes instead of pasta–but it can pass for an elegant side dish. It’s a classic French recipe that requires basic ingredients everyone has, and it’s always a crowd pleaser.

Au Gratin Potatoes vs Scalloped Potatoes:

These two potato dishes are often confused since they are so similar. The biggest difference is that scalloped potatoes are cooked in cream, and au gratin potatoes are baked with cheese. In this recipe, we use a cheese sauce and shredded cheese on top, then bake in the oven until bubbly.

How to make Potatoes Au Gratin:

Make Sauce: For the sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan then stir in flour, cooking for a minute or two. Stir in milk, garlic, salt, dried onions, and pepper and bring to a simmer. Whisk until smooth, and once it is slightly thickened, stir in 2 cups of shredded cheese.

Slice Potatoes: Use a mandolin or a sharp knife to slice russet potatoes very thin. You can peel the potatoes or leave it on.

Two images showing easy au gratin potatoes by using a mandolin to slice potatoes then making the cheesy sauce.

Assemble and Bake: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of a 9×13 dish and pour half the sauce over them. Add another layer of potatoes, then the rest of the sauce. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 30 minutes, or until potatoes are cooked and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve with ham, rack of lamb, or baked salmon. Make sure to add some homemade rolls and salad too!

Two images showing how to make au gratin potatoes by layering the potatoes then pouring on a cheese sauce then after it's baked and bubbly.

Storage and Make Ahead Instructions:

To Store: Stores leftovers in a covered container in the fridge for 3-5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.

To Make Ahead: Follow the recipe until the baking step. Cover pan with aluminum foil then refrigerate overnight. Remove from fridge 1 hour before baking as instructed.

Recipe Variations:

  • Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes: Coat the bottom of a slow cooker with cooking spray and layer potatoes and cheese sauce. Place lid on top and cook on high for 3 hours, until the potatoes are cooked.
  • Ham and Potatoes Au Gratin: Layer 1 ½ cups chopped ham on top of the potatoes then cover with cheese sauce.

What to Serve with Au Gratin Potatoes:

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Baked Potatoes Au Gratin, with some of it being lifted with a spoon.
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Potatoes Au Gratin

The best Potatoes Au Gratin recipe has layers of thin potatoes covered in a creamy, homemade cheese sauce. It's a simple classic that would impress any guests!
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 317kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 6 medium Russet potatoes
  • 6 Tablespoons butter
  • 6 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cloves garlic , minced
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dried onion flakes
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper , to taste
  • 3 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese ,or Gruyere, (or half of each)

Instructions

  • Cheese sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and stir in flour until smooth. Cook 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Slowly stir in the milk, cream, minced garlic, dried onions, and season with salt and pepper. Whisk sauce on low until smooth and slightly thickened. Reduce heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Taste sauce and add additional salt, pepper, garlic or onion flakes, if desired.
  • Prep Potatoes: Peel the potatoes if you'd like. Slice the potatoes into very thin 1/8'' slices.
  • Layer: Place half of the sliced potatoes in a lightly greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over potatoes. Layer the remaining potatoes on top. Spoon the remaining cheese sauce over the potatoes. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
  • Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking, uncovered, for an additional 30 minutes, or until potatoes are cooked, cheese is browned, and sauce is bubbly. 

Video

Notes

Make Ahead Instructions: Follow the recipe until the baking step. Cover pan with aluminum foil then refrigerate overnight. Remove from fridge 1 hour before baking as instructed.
Crock Pot Au Gratin Potatoes: Spray the bottom of a slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray (or use a crock-pot liner). Layer the potatoes and cheese, apply lid and slow cook on high for 3 hours, or until potatoes are tender.
Ham and Potatoes Au Gratin: Add 1 ½ cups chopped ham on top of the potatoes, before adding cheese sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 317kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 457mg | Potassium: 571mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 597IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 290mg | Iron: 1mg

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*I originally shared this recipe December 2013. Updated December 2018, November 2021, September 2022 and November 2024.

Grasshopper Pie

A slice of an easy grasshopper pie recipe being lifted out of a pie pan.This easy Grasshopper Pie recipe has a delicious and creamy mint filling on top of an Oreo cookie crust. It’s a delicious no-bake dessert that can be made with or without alcohol. I have dozens of pie recipes (I’m obsessed!) like our favorite German Chocolate Pie, Banana Cream Pie, Oreo Cheesecake, or Peanut Butter Pie!…

A slice of an easy grasshopper pie recipe being lifted out of a pie pan.

This easy Grasshopper Pie recipe has a delicious and creamy mint filling on top of an Oreo cookie crust. It’s a delicious no-bake dessert that can be made with or without alcohol.

I have dozens of pie recipes (I’m obsessed!) like our favorite German Chocolate Pie, Banana Cream Pie, Oreo Cheesecake, or Peanut Butter Pie!

A slice of an easy grasshopper pie recipe being lifted out of a pie pan.

Who could pass up mint and Oreo, in pie form?

That’s what you get with this mint Grasshopper Pie and it may become your favorite no bake recipe! It’s got a pillowy marshmallow texture and the light green color makes it particularly festive for Christmas time or St. Patrick’s Day. The alcohol addition is traditional, but the liqueur doesn’t get cooked out, so use the alcohol free version I created if you’re serving kids, or adults who don’t consume alcohol. The version with extracts tastes just as good!

And, if you love the chocolate mint combination as much as I do, here’s a shameless plug to try our Mint Brownies or Chocolate Mint Cookies!

Ingredients Needed:

All of the ingredients needed to make  an Old Fashioned Grasshopper Pie recipe: marshmallows, half and half, cream, food coloring, butter, Oreo's, creme de menthe, and creme de cacao liqueur.

How to make Grasshopper Pie:

Make Oreo Crust: Add the whole Oreo cookies to a food processor and pulse into fine crumbs. Pour the crumbs into a bowl and stir in melted butter until well combined. Press mixture firmly into pie dish and bake at 350 degrees F for 10-12 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Two images showing how to make an oreo crust by adding melted butter to oreo crumbs then pressing into a pie dish.

Make Filling: In a large saucepan, add marshmallows, ⅓ cup milk and ⅓ cup heavy cream, over medium low heat. Stir constantly until marshmallows are melted. Remove from heat. Stir in creme de Menth, creme de cacao, vanilla and a drop or two of green food coloring. Allow to cool completely.

Fold in whipped cream: Add remaining 1 cup heavy cream to a mixing bowl and mix with electric whisk beaters until stiff peaks. Spoon whipped cream over to one side of the bowl, and add cooled marshmallow mixture to the open side. Fold gently together, and pour into cooled pie crust.

Two images showing how to make Grasshopper Pie by melting the marshmallows in a saucepan then adding the green food coloring when it's melted and creamy.

Refrigerate: Refrigerate pie for several hours (once the top is set, cover with a piece of parchment)

Serve with Oreo crumbs sprinkled on top, and extra piped whipped cream, if desired.

Two images of the best grasshopper pie recipe with the filling being poured in an Oreo crust then after the pie is decorated with a whipped cream border and cookie crumbs sprinkled on top.

Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions:

To Make Ahead: The Oreo crust will keep at room temperature for a few days, or covered well in the freezer for months.

To Freeze: Wrap prepared pie in plastic wrap and aluminum foil then freeze for up to 3 months. Place pie in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours before serving to allow it to soften a little.

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Grasshopper Pie

This easy Grasshopper Pie recipe has a delicious and creamy mint filling on top of an Oreo cookie crust. It's one of my favorite no-bake desserts and can be made with or without alcohol.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings 10 people
Calories 429kcal
Cost $9

Ingredients

Oreo Crust:

  • 30 Oreo cookies*
  • 6 Tablespoons butter , melted

Grasshopper Pie:

  • 30 large marshmallows*
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 1/3 cup heavy cream , divided
  • 2 Tablespoons Creme de Menthe Liqueur (more to taste)
  • 2 Tablespoons Creme de Cacao Liqueur
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1-3 drops green food coloring

Topping:

  • Crushed Oreos or chocolate curls , for garnish
  • Whipped Cream , optional

Instructions

  • Oreo Crust: Add the whole Oreo cookies to a food processor and pulse into fine crumbs. Pour the crumbs into a bowl and stir in melted butter. Press mixture evenly and firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9in pie dish. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10-12 minutes. Set aside to cool.
  • Grasshopper Pie Filling: In a large saucepan, add marshmallows, ⅓ cup milk and ⅓ cup heavy cream, over medium low heat. Stir constantly until marshmallows are melted. Remove from heat. Stir in creme de Menth, creme de cacao, vanilla and a drop or two of green food coloring. Allow to cool completely.
  • Fold in Whipped Cream: Add remaining 1 cup heavy cream to a mixing bowl and mix with electric whisk beaters until stiff peaks. Spoon whipped cream over to one side of the bowl, and add cooled marshmallow mixture to the open side. Fold gently together, and pour into cooled pie crust.
  • Refrigerate pie for several hours (once the top is set, cover with a piece of parchment)
  • Serve with Oreo crumbs sprinkled on top, and extra piped whipped cream, if desired.

Video

Notes

Oreos: Use whole Oreo cookies (don’t scrape the cream out.) For extra minty flavor, use Mint Oreos!
Marshmallows: You could substitute 7.5 oz container of marshmallow fluff.
Non Alcoholic Grasshopper Pie: Pie: Omit the liquors, and replace with ¾ teaspoon peppermint extract and ½ teaspoon cocoa powder (added at the same time the liquors were added).
Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions:Cover prepared pie tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. The Oreo crust can be made ahead, stored at room temperature for a day or two or cover well and freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 429kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 222mg | Potassium: 130mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 30g | Vitamin A: 690IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 41mg | Iron: 4mg

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I originally published this recipe November 2020. Updated November 2024.

Cranberry Relish

The best Cranberry Relish recipe in a bowl, processed until smooth.The best Cranberry Relish recipe is made with just 3 ingredients, tastes so fresh, and has been a family favorite for generations! It has an incredible sweet, tangy flavor and is perfect served with Thanksgiving turkey, chicken, or pork. Looking for more Thanksgiving recipes? Don’t miss my Thanksgiving Turkey, Homemade Dinner Rolls, Thanksgiving Stuffing, or…

The best Cranberry Relish recipe in a bowl, processed until smooth.

The best Cranberry Relish recipe is made with just 3 ingredients, tastes so fresh, and has been a family favorite for generations! It has an incredible sweet, tangy flavor and is perfect served with Thanksgiving turkey, chicken, or pork.

Looking for more Thanksgiving recipes? Don’t miss my Thanksgiving Turkey, Homemade Dinner Rolls, Thanksgiving Stuffing, or Sweet Potato Casserole!

A bowl full of the best Cranberry Relish recipe, with a spoon for serving.

It’s not Thanksgiving at our house without Cranberry Relish

It wasn’t until I was an adult that I learned some people don’t like cranberry condiments paired with their turkey. What?! Then I’m convinced they haven’t tried this fresh, uncooked cranberry sauce. I’m just obsessed with the fresh citrus flavor of this cranberry relish and I love how easy it is to make; no cooking required and it will keep in the fridge for days if you want to make it in advanced.

I also love a delicious, traditional cooked cranberry sauce as well, but if I had to choose between the two, fresh cranberry relish wins every time. It makes great leftovers too, smothered on leftover homemade rolls with leftover turkey meat.

Make sure to give yourself a stress-free Thanksgiving by checking out all of my Make-Ahead Thanksgiving recipes and my go-to Thanksgiving Menu!

Cranberry Relish vs Cranberry Sauce?

Cranberry Relish is made from uncooked, raw ingredients blended in a food processor. It tastes fresh and tart. Cranberry Sauce is the traditional sauce that is cooked on the stove, thicker, and often much sweeter. They are both delicious, it really just comes down to personal preference.

How to make Cranberry Relish:

Combine: Slice the two ends of the orange, just until you see the flesh. Leave the rest of the skin on and cut orange into 8 wedges. Add orange wedges, fresh cranberries, and sugar to food processor and pulse until smooth and no large chunks remain. Pour into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

Two images showing a cranberry orange relish recipe with fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange slices being processed in a food processor until smooth.

Serve Cranberry Relish On:

Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions:

To Make-Ahead: Make ahead and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

To Freeze: Store in a freezer safe container and freeze for 2-3 months. Thaw completely in the fridge before using.

Have leftover fresh Cranberries? Make:

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The best Cranberry Relish recipe in a bowl, processed until smooth.
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Cranberry Relish

The best Cranberry Relish recipe is fresh and uncooked, made with just 3 ingredients. It's a classic recipe that's been our family's favorite for generations!
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 15
Calories 330kcal
Cost $4

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Slice the ends off of the orange, just until you see the flesh. Leave the rest of the skin on the orange and slice into 8 wedges.
  • Add fresh cranberries, orange wedges and sugar to a food processor and process until smooth (or until no large chunks remain).
  • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving (or up to 1-2 weeks). Serve over turkey, chicken, pork loin etc.

Video

Notes

Yield: makes 3 cups, Serving Size: about 3 Tablespoons
Make-Ahead Instructions: Make ahead and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
To Freezing Instructions: Store in a freezer safe container and freeze for 2-3 months. Thaw completely in the fridge before using.

Nutrition

Calories: 330kcal | Carbohydrates: 85g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 175mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 75g | Vitamin A: 165IU | Vitamin C: 38.3mg | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 0.3mg

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I originally shared this recipe November 2016. Updated October 2019 and November 2024.

Corn Casserole

A pan of the best corn casserole baked in a 9x9 square pan and with a wooden spoon scooping some up to serve.This creamed Corn Casserole recipe is made from scratch (no processed cornbread mix!) and transforms just a handful of pantry staples into a savory, delicious side dish. Looking for more side dishes, try Homemade Dinner Rolls, Twice Baked Potatoes, or Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Vegetables. How to make Corn Casserole: Combine: Mix together flour,…

A pan of the best corn casserole baked in a 9x9 square pan and with a wooden spoon scooping some up to serve.

This creamed Corn Casserole recipe is made from scratch (no processed cornbread mix!) and transforms just a handful of pantry staples into a savory, delicious side dish.

Looking for more side dishes, try Homemade Dinner Rolls, Twice Baked Potatoes, or Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Vegetables.

A pan of a creamed corn casserole baked in a 9x9 square pan and with a wooden spoon scooping some up to serve.

Corn Casserole deserves more attention!

I feel like other comforting Southern side dishes get so much praise (ahem…mac and cheese, potato salad and baked beans) when Corn Casserole is the absolute GOAT. It’s the happy marriage between cornbread and corn pudding (it’s softer than cornbread, but not as custard-like as corn pudding), and it goes well with anything (we even love it as a Thanksgiving side dish).

The best part about my recipe is we’re making Corn Casserole from scratch (rather than using a packaged cornbread mix like many people do). It’s just as easy and inexpensive, but tastes so much better and is better for you.

How to make Corn Casserole:

Combine: Mix together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, oil, eggs, corn kernels, creamed corn, and sour cream. Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Stir in any mix-ins, if desired.

Two images showing a batter for a cream style corn casserole before and after it's mixed.

Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8inch square baking pan (or similar size casserole dish). Spread batter into prepared baking dish and bake this easy corn casserole recipe for 45-60 minutes, just until no longer overly jiggly in the center.

Two images showing a baked corn casserole recipe before and after it's baked.

Storage and Freezing Instructions:

To Store: Keep any leftover corn casserole covered in the fridge.

To Freeze: Let the baked corn casserole cool completely then cover well and freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge then let it rest at room temperature for an hour before rewarming at 325°F for 15 minutes, until warm.

More Recipes With Cornmeal:

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A pan of the best corn casserole baked in a 9x9 square pan and with a wooden spoon scooping some up to serve.
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Corn Casserole

This creamed Corn Casserole recipe is a Southern classic and transforms just a handful of pantry staples into a savory, delicious side dish.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 9
Calories 352kcal
Cost $8

Ingredients

Optional Mix-Ins:

  • 4 oz can diced green chiles , or 2 tablespoons diced jalapeño
  • 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese , or white cheddar
  • 1/4 cup bacon , crumbled

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan (or similar size casserole dish). Set aside.
  • Batter: In a bowl, mix together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder and salt. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, oil, eggs, corn kernels, creamed corn, and sour cream. Fold dry ingredients into wet, just until combined. Stir in mix-ins, if desired.
  • Bake: Spread batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 45-60 minutes or until no longer overly jiggly in the center. We like it fairly soft, but cook it longer if you want a firmer texture.

Notes

Storing Instructions: Keep any leftover corn casserole covered in the fridge.
Freezing Instructions: Let the corn casserole cool completely then cover well and freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge then let it rest at room temperature for an hour before rewarming at 325°F for 15 minutes, until warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 352kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 77mg | Sodium: 698mg | Potassium: 255mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 547IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 209mg | Iron: 2mg

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Homemade Food Gifts for the Holidays

A collage image showing six pictures featuring a variety of homemade food gifts for Christmas to make for friends and neighbors.Giving my neighbors and friends homemade food gifts during the holidays (or really anytime) is my favorite! I’ve compiled all of my supplies and free printable gift labels so you can gift them too! Check out all of my Christmas Recipes, like Gingerbread Man Cookies, Reindeer Cookies, Peppermint Brownies, Oreo Balls, or Ginger Molasses Cookies!…

A collage image showing six pictures featuring a variety of homemade food gifts for Christmas to make for friends and neighbors.

Giving my neighbors and friends homemade food gifts during the holidays (or really anytime) is my favorite! I’ve compiled all of my supplies and free printable gift labels so you can gift them too!

Check out all of my Christmas Recipes, like Gingerbread Man Cookies, Reindeer Cookies, Peppermint Brownies, Oreo Balls, or Ginger Molasses Cookies!

A collage image showing six pictures featuring a variety of homemade food gifts for Christmas to make for friends and neighbors.

The Best Kind of Gift is Homemade

It’s no surprise that my favorite way to spread love is through food, and every Christmas we choose a different Homemade food gift to give friends and neighbors. I decided to compile our favorites here, with free printable gift tags, and link to all the supplies we use, so you can deliver professional, delicious gifts to your friends, family, and neighbors this holiday season – or anytime!

More Food Gift Ideas:

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Lemon Meringue Pie

A slice of an easy lemon pie recipe being lifted out of the pie plate with a spatula, showing the lemon and meringue layers.My childhood favorite Lemon Meringue Pie recipe has a delicious fresh lemon flavor with the perfect fluffy meringue topping. Do you love pie recipes? Try this No-Bake Cheesecake, Banana Cream Pie, Key Lime Pie, or Chess Pie! How to make Lemon Meringue Pie: Make Meringue: In a small saucepan, whisk together cornstarch and water. Cook…

A slice of an easy lemon pie recipe being lifted out of the pie plate with a spatula, showing the lemon and meringue layers.

My childhood favorite Lemon Meringue Pie recipe has a delicious fresh lemon flavor with the perfect fluffy meringue topping.

Do you love pie recipes? Try this No-Bake Cheesecake, Banana Cream Pie, Key Lime Pie, or Chess Pie!

A slice of an easy lemon pie recipe being lifted out of the pie plate with a spatula, showing the lemon and meringue layers.

I should be sick of Lemon Meringue Pie.

It was one of your family’s favorites when I was young and our home turned into a mini hunger games whenever mom made it. You literally had to get a piece and hide it or you’d be out of luck. It’s one of my brother’s all time favorite desserts, he he would even request it as his birthday “cake”. The tart, creamy pie filling mixed with a billowing meringue is just irresistible! And to make it a real star it needs our easy homemade pie crust! .

I have two other favorite Lemons pies you cant miss: Lemon Chiffon Pie, and Lemon Cream Pie.

How to make Lemon Meringue Pie:

Make Meringue: In a small saucepan, whisk together cornstarch and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickens. Remove from heat. In a small bowl, stir together cream of tartar and sugar. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with electric mixers until frothy. With the mixer running, add sugar mixture a spoonful at a time, until fully incorporated. Continue beating until soft peaks. Add thickened cornstarch mixture, beating in a spoonful at a time. Mix until stiff peaks form, about 1-2 minutes. Set aside.

Two images showing a meringue topping being made for homemade lemon meringue pie.

Heat Mixture: In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup sugar, flour, cornstarch, and salt. Stir in water, lemon juice and lemon zest. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until mixture comes to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in butter. 

Temper Eggs: In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks. Add a spoonful of the hot sugar mixture into bowl of beaten egg yolks and whisk. (This tempers the eggs slowly so the eggs don’t scramble when added).

Two images showing a homemade lemon meringue pie filling in a saucepan, and then when it's being used to temper the eggs.

Finish Lemon Filling: Whisk the egg yolk mixture back into saucepan and bring to a low boil, stirring constantly, until thick. Remove from heat. Pour filling into baked pie shell.

Two images showing how to make lemon meringue pie filling then after it's poured into the baked pie shell.

Bake: Spread meringue over hot lemon filling, spreading all the way to the edge, making sure there are no gaps between the pie crust and the meringue, so it doesn’t shrink away while baking. Use the back of your spoon to create decorative peaks in the meringue. Bake for 10 minutes or until the meringue is lightly golden. Transfer to a wire rack and cool to room temperature before serving. This pie is best served the same day.

Two images showing the best Lemon Meringue Pie recipe fresh out of the oven, then with a piece on a plate with a bite on the fork.

Tips for the Perfect Lemon Meringue Pie:

A Hot Pie: First, and most importantly, the pie filling should be hot when you spoon the meringue on top. The hot filling will help bake the meringue, instead of just stopping at the surface and “weeping”, causing your meringue to slide off when the pie is sliced. It also helps to avoid baking on super humid days.

Cornstarch and Cream of Tartar: My last tip for a fool-proof meringue is using a little bit of cornstarch and cream of tarter in the meringue to give it a stronger structure when baking.

My Favorite Lemon Recipes:

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A slice of an easy lemon pie recipe being lifted out of the pie plate with a spatula, showing the lemon and meringue layers.
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Lemon Meringue Pie

Our classic Lemon Meringue Pie recipe has the best flavor and perfect texture from the creamy lemon filling to the pillowy meringue.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Rest at room temperature 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 330kcal
Cost $8

Ingredients

Meringue:

  • 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large egg whites , room temperature (fresh eggs work best)

Instructions

  • Grab 4 eggs and separate the egg yolks from the egg whites and set aside.

Meringue:

  • In a small saucepan, whisk together cornstarch and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • In a small bowl, stir together cream of tartar and sugar. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with electric mixers until frothy. 
  • With the mixers running, add the sugar mixture, a spoonful at a time, until fully incorporated. Continue beating until soft peaks. Add the thickened cornstarch mixture while beating, a spoonful at a time. Mix until stiff peaks form, about 1-2 minutes. Set aside.
  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Lemon Filling:

  • In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup sugar, flour, cornstarch, and salt. Stir in water, lemon juice and lemon zest. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until mixture comes to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in butter. 
  • Beat the egg yolks with a fork. Add a spoonful of the hot saucepan mixture into the egg yolk mixture and whisk together to temper the eggs (gradually warm them).  Repeat, with a few more spoonfuls. Whisk the egg yolk mixture back into remaining sugar mixture in the pot. 
  • Bring to a gently boil and continue to cook while stirring constantly, until thick. Remove from heat.

Assemble:

  • Pour hot lemon filling into baked pie shell. Immediately add meringue on top, covering every surface, spreading it around all the way to the edge of the pie so there are not gaps between the pie crust and meringue. Use the back of your spoon to create decorative peaks in the meringue.
  • Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the meringue is lightly browned. 
  • Transfer to a wire rack and cool to room temperature, about 2 hours. This pie is best served the same day.
  • Store leftover lemon meringue pie covered in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

Video

Notes

Eggs: Fresh eggs work best for meringue to whip properly. Also make sure no egg yolks get into the egg whites. 
 

Nutrition

Calories: 330kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 99mg | Sodium: 210mg | Potassium: 96mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 34g | Vitamin A: 212IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 22mg | Iron: 1mg

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*I originally shared this recipe March 2015. Updated February 2019 and November 2024.

Recipe originally adapted from All Recipes

 

Make Ahead Thanksgiving Recipes

We’re sharing all of our tips for prepping many favorite Thanksgiving recipes ahead of time, so you’ve got lots of extra time to relax and enjoy time with family on this holiday. You can browse all of my Thanksgiving recipes including my famous Thanksgiving Turkey, Homemade Rolls, Turkey Gravy, Pumpkin Roll, or Pecan Pie! Make…

We’re sharing all of our tips for prepping many favorite Thanksgiving recipes ahead of time, so you’ve got lots of extra time to relax and enjoy time with family on this holiday.

You can browse all of my Thanksgiving recipes including my famous Thanksgiving Turkey, Homemade Rolls, Turkey Gravy, Pumpkin Roll, or Pecan Pie!

A graphic showing 6 of the many Thanksgiving recipes that can be prepped in advance, leaving your Thanksgiving meal stress free.

A Stress-Free Thanksgiving IS possible.

I feel passionately that you can have an incredible Thanksgiving feast, without slaving away in the kitchen all day. As much as I LOVE to cook, you’ll hardly see me cooking on Thanksgiving Day (and trust me, our Thanksgiving menu is huge, and we always have several homemade pies)! It’s all because I prep so much of the meal ahead of time, so things are ready to go in the oven, or throw together quickly. I hope you’ll find all of my tips helpful!

The Main Menu

Make Ahead Tips:

Thanksgiving Turkey:

  • Allow the turkey plenty of time to thaw. Plan for one day in the fridge for every 5 pounds of turkey. I even give myself one extra day, just to be safe.
  • Mix together the herb butter and store it covered in the refrigerator, up to several days.
  • Chop the veggies ahead of time and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Mashed Potatoes:

  • Prep mashed potatoes 1-2 days ahead, adding extra milk so they are pretty soft (potatoes absorb moisture as they rest). Transfer to a casserole dish, cover and refrigerate.
  • To Reheat: Remove potatoes from fridge and place at room temp for 1 hour. Taste and add any additional seasonings or milk, to make them soft and flavoful. Cover and bake at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, or until warm.

Thanksgiving Stuffing:

  • Fully assemble the stuffing, but don’t bake it. Store in an airtight bag or container in the fridge for up to 2 days, before baking in a casserole dish at 350°F for 30 minutes.

Sweet Potato Casserole:

  • Make the mashed sweet potato filling 1-2 days in advance and smooth into baking dish. Make pecan topping and store in a separate container. Remove from fridge 1 hour before baking, and add topping.

Turkey Gravy:

  • Follow the instructions to make the gravy, allowing it to cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container then refrigerate up to 2 days.
  • To Reheat: Pour gravy into a saucepan then add a couple tablespoons water or chicken broth to thin it to your liking. Heat on medium low, stirring often, until warm (about 15 minutes).

Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Make Ahead Tips:

Homemade Dinner Rolls:

  • Make homemade roll dough and place in an airtight container in the fridge overnight for the first rise. In the morning, resume the recipe with punching down the dough and shaping.
  • Baked rolls also freeze well, if you want to fully make them ahead. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Allow them to come to room temperature, or warm them in the oven for a few minutes, before serving.

Cranberry Fluff Salad:

  • Make the entire dish the day before and refrigerate overnight.

Fresh Cranberry Relish:

  • Make up to a week in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Deviled Eggs:

  • Make the day before. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Apple Cranberry Fruit Salad:

  • Cook cranberries as directed and refrigerate overnight. Assemble remaining salad up to a a few hours ahead of time.

Pies

Make Ahead Tips:

Easy Pie Crust:

  • Assembled pie dough will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Remove from the freezer and allow to rest at room temperature for 20 minutes before rolling out.

Graham Cracker Pie Crust:

  • Press crust into a freezer safe pie dish, covering tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months then thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Or, store graham cracker pie crust at room temperature (or in the fridge if you live somewhere humid) for up to one day ahead.

Oreo Pie Crust:

  • Press crust into a freezer safe pie dish, covering tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months then thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Or, store graham cracker pie crust at room temperature (or in the fridge if you live somewhere humid) for up to one day ahead.

Printable Thanksgiving Prep Timeline:

A prep ahead timeline for Thanksgiving showcasing turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and sweet potatoes to make Thanksgiving dinner a breeze.
A document showing how to prep ahead popular Thanksgiving side dishes to make the holiday easier.
A document showing how to prep ahead graham cracker pie crust, Oreo pie crust, and my traditional pie crust in advance.

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Perfect Pie Crust

An easy Pie Crust recipe with fluted edges inside a pie dish, waiting to be pre-baked or filled.This easy Pie Crust recipe is made with only 4 pantry ingredients and takes 20 minutes to prep! It’s flaky, buttery, and elevates every single pie! You’ll never buy store-bought pie crust again! Homemade pie crust always tastes better! Make sure to try Graham Cracker Pie Crust and Oreo Pie Crust. How to make Pie…

An easy Pie Crust recipe with fluted edges inside a pie dish, waiting to be pre-baked or filled.

This easy Pie Crust recipe is made with only 4 pantry ingredients and takes 20 minutes to prep! It’s flaky, buttery, and elevates every single pie! You’ll never buy store-bought pie crust again!

Homemade pie crust always tastes better! Make sure to try Graham Cracker Pie Crust and Oreo Pie Crust.

An easy Pie Crust recipe with fluted edges inside a pie dish, waiting to be pre-baked or filled.

Anyone can master our easy homemade pie crust!

If you’re taking the time to make any sort of pie, you really owe it to yourself to pair it with a homemade crust. Store-bought crusts are bland, dry, and overcook quickly for many baked pies (like apple pie or pumpkin pie), plus it’s so EASY to make homemade pie dough. The taste is incomparable. My secret is using both butter and shortening, since they have different melting points. The shortening provides stability and tenderness while the butter gives it the yummy buttery flavor we want.

This recipe makes enough for 2 crusts , in case you need a top and bottom crust. You can freeze the second crust for months, if not using it right away.

How to make Pie Crust:

Combine: Whisk flour and salt in a mixing bowl. Cut the cold shortening into small pieces, grate the frozen butter into the bowl. Use a pastry blender or forks to cut the fats into the flour until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.

Two images showing someone using a pastry blender to cut in cold shortening and butter in a flour and salt mixture for a simple pie crust recipe.

Add Water: Add a Tablespoon of ice water at a time, mixing it in until the dough starts to come together in a ball. You might not need all of it. Form into a ball then divide in half and shape each half into a flattened disc. Wrap each disc in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours. The disc can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Refrigeration is mandatory as you need the fats in the pie dough to be cold when it enters the oven, to yield tender, flakey layers.

Two images showing an easy pie shell recipe with water being added to the dough mixture until it comes together in a ball.

Roll Out Pie Crust: Roll out crust on a lightly floured countertop. Or, if you’re new to pie making, you could dampen a thin hand towel and lay it on the countertop. Place a large piece of parchment paper over it. (The towel will help keep the parchment paper in place while you roll out the dough, and you can use the parchment paper to easily flip the crust into your pie dish). Lightly dust with flour, then roll out cold pie dough into a large circle.Start at the center and work outwards, it should be thin and at least 1-2 inches larger than your pie plate.

Two images showing a homemade pie dough in a flattened disc with flour sprinkled on top, then after it's rolled out to a large circle.

Transfer to Dish: Carefully lift the crust by placing a hand underneath the parchment paper. Gently flip the crust, guiding it into the pie pan. Guide the crust into the bottom and sides of the pan, then carefully peel off parchment paper. Use kitchen scissors to trim excess overhanging crust, so that 1 inch hangs over the edges. Fold the crust behind the outer edges to create a thicker border around the pie, then crimp or flute the edges, if desired.

Two images showing the best pie crust recipe with the dough draped over the pie plate then after the edges are fluted.

For Pies requiring an unbaked pie crust (like pumpkin, apple, or even chicken pot pie): Fill the unbaked crust with pie filling and Bake according to recipe instructions.

For Pies requiring a Baked Pie Crust (like lemon cream, german chocolate or coconut cream), pre-bake this flaky pie crust, called blind baking. To blind bake a pie crust, you need pie weights, or use dry beans or dry rice. (Without pie weights the crust will shrink into the pan as it bakes). Place a large piece of parchment paper inside the homemade pie shell then pour the pie weights, dry beans, or rice into an even layer on top. Bake at 375° F for 15-20 minutes. Remove pie weights by carefully lifting up on parchment paper. Prick the bottom of the pie crust with a fork, then return to oven for 10-15 minutes, until lightly golden.

A homemade pie shell with a piece of parchment paper inside and filled with pie weights.

Freezing Instructions:

To Freeze Pie Dough: Wrap the pie dough discs tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before rolling out.

To Freeze Blind-Baked Pie Crust: Allow the crust to cool completely, then cover well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely at room temperature before filling.

Use Pie Crust for:

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An easy Pie Crust recipe with fluted edges inside a pie dish, waiting to be pre-baked or filled.
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Pie Crust

This best and easiest Pie Crust recipe made with only 4 pantry ingredients and it can even be made ahead of time and frozen. You'll never buy store-bought pie crust again!
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Chill time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 258kcal
Cost 2

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Mix flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add ice cubes to a measuring cup and fill with ½ cup cold water. Set aside.
  • Add fats: Grate frozen butter into the bowl, or cut it into very small pieces. Add chilled shortening and use a pastry blender or fork to cut the fats into the flour until well combined and resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Add ice water a spoonful at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together into a ball. Be careful not to over mix, and you may not need all of the water. Gently mold the dough into a ball.
  • Divide dough into 2 pieces and press each to flatten into a disk. 
  • Refrigerate: Cover dough discs with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 2 hours (or freeze for 30 minutes). Refrigeration is mandatory as you need the fats in the pie dough to be cold when it's rolled out and placed in oven).
  • Roll out dough on a floured countertop. If you're new to pie making, it may be helpful to use this method: dampen a large cloth and lay it flat on your countertop, with a large piece of parchment paper over it (the damp towel will keep the parchment from moving). Lightly flour the parchment and dough and roll the dough into a large circle, about 1-inch larger then the diameter of your pie dish. Always start at the center of the crust, and roll outwards.
  • Place in pie pan: Gently turn the dough into your pie dish and remove the parchment paper. Settle it smoothly into the bottom and sides of the pan. Trim and crimp the edges of the crust.
  • For Pies requiring an unbaked pie crust (like pumpkin, apple, or even chicken pot pie): Fill the unbaked crust with pie filling and bake according to pie recipe instructions.
  • For a blind Baked Pie Crust (pre-baked crust) you need pie weights, dry beans or dry rice. (Without pie weights the crust will shrink into the pan as it bakes). Place a large piece of parchment paper over the unbaked crust and add pie weights, (or 1-2 cups dry beans, or dry rice) on top. Bake at 375° F for 15-20 minutes. Remove pie weights by carefully lifting up on parchment paper. Prick the bottom of the pie crust with a fork, then return to oven for 10-15 minutes, until lightly golden. Allow crust to cool before adding filling.

Video

Notes

*This recipe makes 2 pie crusts, perfect for recipes that require a top crust, like Apple Pie or Chicken Pot Pie. Or, freeze the second crust for another day.
To Freeze Pie Dough: Wrap the pie dough discs tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before rolling out.
To Freeze Blind-Baked Pie Crust: Allow the crust to cool completely, then cover well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely at room temperature before filling.

Nutrition

Calories: 258kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 196mg | Potassium: 30mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 175IU | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 1mg

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UPDATED November 2016, March 2018 and November 2022 and October 2024.