When it comes to baking, pies are a classic favorite. But what do you do when you're left with some extra pie dough? Don't let that precious crust go to waste! There are numerous creative and delicious ways to use up leftover pie crust. In this article, we'll explore a variety of recipes that will turn your leftover pie crust into mouth - watering treats.

One of the simplest and most popular ways to use leftover pie crust is by making pie crust cookies. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the leftover pie dough on a lightly floured surface until it's about 1/8 - inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out fun shapes like stars, hearts, or circles. Place the cut - outs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can sprinkle them with sugar, cinnamon, or a combination of both for added flavor. Bake for about 8 - 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let them cool on a wire rack, and you'll have a batch of crispy, sweet cookies that are perfect for an afternoon snack or to serve with a cup of tea.

Another great option is to make pie crust tarts. Grease a muffin tin or use a tartlet pan. Roll out the pie dough and cut it into circles that are large enough to fit into the muffin cups or tartlet molds. Press the dough gently into the cups, making sure to cover the bottom and sides evenly. You can fill these tarts with a variety of fillings. For a sweet option, use jam or preserves. Simply spoon a small amount of your favorite jam into each tart shell and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12 - 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden. If you prefer a savory filling, you can use cheese, cooked bacon bits, and a little bit of chopped spinach. Bake these savory tarts at the same temperature for a similar amount of time.

If you're in the mood for something more substantial, consider making a quiche with your leftover pie crust. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie dough and place it in a pie dish, pressing it firmly into the bottom and up the sides. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up. You can then make a quiche filling by whisking together eggs, milk or cream, salt, pepper, and your choice of ingredients such as cooked ham, onions, mushrooms, and cheese. Pour the filling into the pie crust and bake for about 35 - 40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the crust is golden brown. This makes for a great breakfast, lunch, or dinner option.

For a fun and unique dessert, you can create pie crust ice cream sandwiches. Roll out the pie dough and cut it into rectangles or squares. Bake the crust pieces at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 - 10 minutes, or until they're crispy. Let them cool completely. Then, take your favorite ice cream and place a scoop between two pieces of the pie crust. Press gently to form a sandwich. You can roll the edges of the ice cream sandwich in sprinkles or crushed nuts for added texture and flavor. Place the ice cream sandwiches in the freezer for a few minutes to firm up before serving.

Lastly, you can use leftover pie crust to make a mini pizza. Roll out the dough and cut it into small circles or rectangles. Place the crust pieces on a baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on each crust, followed by shredded cheese, your favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 10 - 12 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly. These mini pizzas are a great way to use up leftover pie crust and are perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.

In conclusion, leftover pie crust is a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a wide range of delicious recipes. Whether you're in the mood for something sweet or savory, there's a recipe out there that will help you make the most of your extra pie dough. So, the next time you find yourself with some leftover pie crust, don't hesitate to get creative in the kitchen and whip up one of these amazing treats.