4 Baking Hacks That Could Save Your Holiday
It’s that time of year again, y’all: Break out your best apron, flour up your countertop and turn that oven on, because it’s time to get baking. While you’re probably already a kickass host, whipping up a picture-perfect meal (literally, there will be Snapchats + Instagrams galore) can be tough. Even when you *think* you’ve created a flawless masterpiece to be enjoyed by your loved ones, something can happen that make it all turn to crap. There are, however, some hacks to keep in mind that could end up saving the day — and your sanity — when you’re baking for the holidays. After you’ve checked out these hacks, you’ll find your holiday baking will be easy as PIE.
So, there’s a crack in your pie — it happens, and it’s a bummer because it can ruin the final look of the dessert. To quickly, easily and deliciously cover it up, grab some cream, sugar and vanilla extract (all things you prob already have on hand). Using a fork or a hand mixer, beat the ingredients together until a soft peak is created. Then, spoon it on top of the pie. No more unsightly crack — and your pie is even more yummy now. (via TODAY Food)
HOW TO CREATE A COOL PIE CRUST DESIGN
Put the fork down — that ish is basic. Step up your pie crust design game with this super simple hack: Use a necklace to create a cool shape in your pie crust! Take a (fake) pearl necklace and place it around the rim of the pie crust, slightly pushing down into the dough. Carefully remove the necklace and admire your work! (via Libbie Summers)
HOW TO MAKE SUPER FLAKY CRUST
Achieving that perfectly flaky pie crust is no easy feat. Adding vodka helps keep the texture light without compromising flavor — I know, crazy — despite the fact that you’re adding something you usually drink out of a shot glass. By adding ¼ cup of cold vodka over the dough, and then folding it in, you’re adding in moisture that the crust needs to stay supple and extra yummy. (via NYT Cooking)
HOW TO GET A PERFECT LATTICE-TOP PIE
We’re all after the satisfaction that comes with presenting your loved ones with a perfect lattice-top pie, aren’t we? Just me? It is a slightly intimidating thing to bake because of the intricate nature of the lattice top. All you need is to reimagine how to use a *cooling rack* and you’ll be a lattice pie pro in no time. Simply place the cooling rack on top of your rolled-out dough and press down to make indentations so you have a guide that makes cutting the dough foolproof. (via Better Recipes)
What are your go-to baking hacks? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
