Basic Pie Pastry

Directions

1. 1
   Sift the flour, salt, and baking powder into a large bowl.
2. 2
   Cut the butter into the flour using your fingertips or a pastry blender (or pulse in a food processor) until the texture resembles coarse meal with visible bits of butter.
3. 3
   Drizzle 4 tablespoons ice water evenly over the mixture and gently stir with a fork or pulse until incorporated.
4. 4
   Pinch off a small handful of dough; if it doesnt hold together, add more water, 1/2 tablespoon at a time, stirring or pulsing after each addition.
5. 5
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface.
6. 6
   Divide the ball of dough in half, and pat into disks about 1/2-inch thick.
7. 7
   Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, at least 1 hour or up to 2 days.