3-2-1 Dough

A popular pie dough formula is called 3-2-1 dough. The numbers refer to the ratio of ingredients by weight: 3 parts flour, 2 parts shortening, and 1 part ice water. The ratios of ingredients in this chapter’s basic pie dough formulas have been modified slightly from the 3-2-1 standard. In particular, they use slightly less water to yield a somewhat more tender dough. However, the 3-2-1 ratio is easy to remember and is always reliable. It can be used for both mealy and flaky doughs. To mix the ingredients, use the same procedure as that given in the basic formulas below.