Blind baking is the process of pre-baking a pie crust before adding the filling, which helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy. If you don't have beads or pie weights to use for blind baking, there are several alternative options you can try:
Dried Beans or Rice: Dried beans or rice can be used as a substitute for pie weights. Simply line the bottom of the pie crust with parchment paper or aluminum foil, and fill it with dried beans or rice to weigh down the crust during baking. After blind baking, you can reuse the beans or rice for future blind baking, but do not cook and eat them as they become less suitable for consumption.
Pennies or Loose Change: If you don't have dried beans or rice, you can use pennies or other loose change to weigh down the crust. Make sure to place parchment paper or foil between the coins and the crust to prevent any contact with the metal.
Ceramic or Heatproof Glass Pie Weights: If you have a heatproof ceramic or glass dish, you can use it as a pie weight. Make sure to cover the crust with parchment paper or foil and place the ceramic or glass dish on top to keep the crust flat during baking.
Baking Soda: Baking soda can be used as a makeshift alternative to pie weights. Spread a layer of baking soda on parchment paper or foil and place it on the crust to hold it down during baking.
Pricking Holes: If you have none of the above options available, you can prick the bottom of the pie crust with a fork. This will help prevent excessive puffing during baking, although it might not be as effective as using weights.
Remember that whatever substitute you use, it's essential to use parchment paper or foil to protect the crust from direct contact with the weight. This will help ensure that the crust bakes evenly and retains its shape. Additionally, when using alternative weights, take care not to overbake the crust to avoid any burning or unpleasant taste from the substitutes.