Leftover Pie Crust? Turn It Into Crispy, Irresistible Fries

If you've ever made a pie completely from scratch, you know the drill: the satisfaction of perfectly floured hands, the delicate balancing act of rolling out dough, and, let’s be honest, the occasional frustration when it tears. But one hidden gem in the pie-making process often goes overlooked: leftover pie crust dough.

Rather than tossing those scraps or letting them sit forgotten, why not repurpose them into a quick, delicious snack that rivals your favorite comfort foods? Enter: pie crust fries — a crispy, customizable treat that’s perfect for sweet tooths and savory snackers alike.

The Simple Joy of Pie Fries

Turning leftover dough into pie fries is a genius way to squeeze every last bit of goodness from your baking efforts. The process is so simple, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Start by rolling out the dough slightly thicker than you would for a regular crust. Slice it into fry-sized strips (thin for extra crispiness, thicker for a heartier bite). Then, brush with butter and season to your heart's desire. Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, keeping an eye out to ensure golden perfection.

Sweet or Savory? The Choice is Yours

The beauty of pie fries lies in their versatility. For a classic sweet option, coat your strips with butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking. Elevate the experience with a dip — apple butter, Nutella, or caramel sauce take it to the next level. Sweet pie fries are like mini churros, perfect for dunking and snacking.

Have leftover crust from a savory pie, like chicken pot pie or beef bourguignon? No problem! Brush those strips with butter and season them with creative toppings. Everything bagel seasoning, shredded cheddar, or a sprinkle of chili flakes and chopped jalapeños can turn your pie fries into a snack worthy of sharing (or not).

Why You'll Love Them

Pie fries are more than just a way to minimize waste. They’re a fun, quick snack to make with kids, a clever addition to a dessert board, or a quirky party appetizer that’ll have your guests raving. Plus, they make the pie-making process feel even more rewarding — it’s like getting a bonus round of deliciousness.

So the next time you’re baking, think twice before discarding those scraps of dough. Transform them into a crispy, flavorful snack that proves the best part of the pie is sometimes what’s left behind.