Pie Crust Ratio Calculator

Calculate the flour, fat, and water needed for a pie crust based on pan size and the classic 3:2:1 ratio by weight.

inches
grams

Flour

180 g

Fat (Butter/Shortening)120 g
Ice Water60 g
Salt3.6 g

How to Calculate Pie Crust Ingredients

The 3:2:1 Ratio

3 parts flour : 2 parts fat : 1 part water (by weight)

This classic ratio produces a flaky, tender crust. The flour provides structure, cold fat creates flaky layers, and ice water binds the dough.

Scaling for Pan Size

The base recipe is calibrated for a 9-inch pan. Scale by the square of the diameter ratio: (pan / 9) squared. A double crust uses twice the material.

Tips

Keep butter and water ice cold. Overworking the dough develops gluten, making the crust tough instead of tender.

Example Calculation

A double-crust pie in a 9-inch pan, 180 g flour base per single crust.

  1. 01Scale factor = 2 x (9/9)^2 = 2
  2. 02Flour = 180 x 2 = 360 g
  3. 03Fat = 360 x 2/3 = 240 g (about 1 cup butter)
  4. 04Water = 360 / 3 = 120 g (about 1/2 cup)
  5. 05Salt = 360 x 0.02 = 7.2 g (about 1.5 tsp)

Frequently Asked Questions

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Recipe Scaling Guide - How to Double, Halve, or Adjust Any Recipe

Learn how to scale recipes up or down accurately. Covers multiplying ingredients, adjusting cooking times and temperatures, and avoiding common scaling mistakes.

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