To prevent a pie's edges from drying out or overbaking while the filling cooks, you can use a few different techniques:
Pie Shield: A pie shield is a device or a simple DIY solution made of aluminum foil or silicone that covers the outer edge of the pie crust, protecting it from direct heat. You can place the shield on the pie during the initial baking or after the crust has started to brown. The shield allows the center of the pie to bake while keeping the edges shielded and preventing excessive browning.
Foil Tent: Another method is to create a foil tent. Take a sheet of aluminum foil and fold it in half to form a triangle. Place the foil tent over the entire pie, with the pointy end in the center and the open ends covering the edges. This tent will shield the edges from direct heat while allowing the rest of the pie to bake.
Crust Shield: If you're specifically concerned about the pie crust, you can use a specialized crust shield. These are adjustable metal or silicone rings that fit over the pie crust edges to protect them from browning too quickly. They come in various sizes to accommodate different pie diameters.
Egg Wash: Applying an egg wash to the exposed edges of the crust can also help prevent them from drying out. An egg wash is made by beating an egg with a little water or milk. Gently brush the egg wash onto the edges of the pie crust before baking. The egg wash provides a slight barrier, keeping the edges moist and preventing excessive drying.
It's worth noting that these methods are not exclusive, and you can use a combination of them based on your preference and the specific needs of your pie. Keep a close eye on the pie while it bakes, and remove the shields or tent during the last few minutes of baking if you want to achieve a golden crust.
By employing these techniques, you can maintain a balance between a nicely baked crust and moist edges, resulting in a delicious pie.