If you’re looking to create a flaky and flavorful dessert base, the Buttermilk Pie Crust Dough is your go-to recipe. The versatile dough is perfect for pies, tarts, and even quiches, bringing a delightful richness that enhances any filling. Let’s get started on making the delicious crust.

When making the Buttermilk Pie Crust Dough, feel free to swap out the butter for a non-dairy option if you’re catering to lactose intolerance. Also, if you’re in a pinch, using milk or a non-dairy milk in place of buttermilk can work, though it may slightly alter the flavor. Always ensure your ingredients, especially the butter and shortening, are chilled to achieve that tender, flaky texture we all love.
Pies & Tarts
Buttermilk Pie Crust Dough Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, diced (chilled and unsalted)
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening, chilled
- 1/4 cup buttermilk, plus
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt.
- Add 1/2 cup of diced chilled unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of chilled vegetable shortening to the bowl.
- Using your hands or a pastry blender, cut in the butter and shortening until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
- Now, add 1/4 cup of buttermilk and 2 tablespoons of buttermilk, stirring with a fork until moist clumps begin to form.
- You can also make the dough in a food processor. Just use on/off turns to cut the butter and shortening into the dry ingredients until you get that coarse meal texture, then add the buttermilk and process just until clumps form.
- Press the mixture together gently to form your dough.
- Divide the dough in half and gather each half into balls, then flatten into disks.
- Wrap each disk separately and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
- If you’re planning ahead, the dough can be prepared up to a week in advance in the refrigerator or frozen for up to a month. Remember to let it stand at room temperature to soften slightly before using.
Part of our Homemade Pie and Tart Recipes collection — Part 1 of 5:
For a truly delightful dessert, try making the Cake Mix Cobbler. The Cake Mix Cobbler is a fantastic option that combines pie filling with cake mix for a simple yet satisfying treat.