Talking to my grandma about her pie crust changed how I see recipes

Grant Bailey · 2026-03-25T22:25:05.746757+00:00

I was at her house last weekend trying to make a blueberry pie, and my dough was a total mess. She looked over and said, "Honey, you're reading the recipe like a law book, not a story." She showed me how she adds the cold water by feel, not by the cup, until it just comes together. I tried it again yesterday and got my first flaky crust that didn't crack. Has anyone else had a family member give you a tip that fixed a baking problem?

eva_garcia565mo ago

Same with my mom and gravy, right @the_felix?

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the_felix5mo ago

My grandpa taught me the same thing with biscuits. It really does change everything.

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jamiemiller5mo ago

That "reading the recipe like a law book" line is so true. @the_felix, when your grandpa taught you biscuits, did he give you a specific sign to look for in the dough? Like a certain texture or feel in your hands before you stop mixing?

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