Pie crust or bust! While fillings are fun and flavorful, there's something to be said for the rich simplicity of the tender, flaky crust that holds it all together. Make your pie look as good as it tastes with these lovely DIY designs!

Lattice Crust: Practice your weaving skills with a classic lattice top:

1. Roll out your top crust into a 12-inch circle, then use a sharp knife or cutter to cut it into 1-inch-wide strips.
2. Place your bottom crust into a prepared pie pan, add filling and smooth out the top.
3. Lay half of the dough strips side by side on top of the filling, then fold every other strip back on itself.
4. Place another strip perpendicular across the center, then unfold the strips over the center strip.
5. Fold the strips that are underneath the center strip back, lay another strip down next to the center strip, then unfold the strips over it.
6. Repeat until all of the dough strips have been used.
7. Use scissors to trim away any excess dough.
8. Fold edges over and crimp as desired.

Rosette: To make a rosette of twists, cut your dough in ½-inch strips. Starting from the center, twist each strip of dough clockwise, then continue with each strip of dough until the whole top is covered.

Slashes: Slash your pie crust in a lovely pattern for a simple yet elegant finish.

Cut-Outs: Use fun cookie cutter shapes to expose some of the colorful filling and add another layer of decoration.

Ready to get started? Make decorating your dessert as easy as pie with a premium pre-made crust like Dufour Pastry Kitchens Ready to Bake 9" Pie Crusts—non-GMO, ideal for sweet or savory applications and frozen for ultimate convenience. If you're feeling extra DIY, you can also give our pie crust recipe a try. The pie's the limit!

Article originally published in March of 2021 and updated in July of 2024.