Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Step 2

If baking a dessert that you'd like to lift from the pan, line it with parchment paper (like cookie bars). Pies and tarts usually don't need this step.

Step 3

Melt butter and add in the vanilla extract.

Step 4

Combine the sugar, flour, and salt in a bowl. Use a fork or whisk to smooth out any lumps if necessary.

Step 5

Pour the butter and vanilla into the flour and stir gently until a soft dough forms.

Step 6

Press into your pan of choice until flat and even. Dock with a fork.*

Step 7

Bake for 12 minutes, or until crust no longer appears wet on the top and is set at the edges.

Step 8

If adding a liquid filling like custard or curd, brush the warm crust with jam or jelly in a thin layer to seal the crust surface.

Step 9

Allow to cool and continue with your recipe of choice.