What is a pie breather?

A pie breather is a device used in baking to allow steam to escape from a pie crust during baking. This helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy and allows the filling to cook evenly.

There are a few different types of pie breathers:

* Pie vents: These are small, pre-made metal or plastic discs that you place on top of the pie crust before baking. They allow steam to escape while still protecting the pie from burning.

* Pie weights: These are small, heavy objects (such as dried beans, rice, or pie weights) that are placed on top of the pie crust before baking. They help to prevent the crust from shrinking and allow steam to escape through the gaps between the weights.

* Knife slits: You can simply cut a few slits in the top crust of the pie to allow steam to escape.

Using a pie breather is essential for achieving a flaky, golden-brown pie crust. It helps to ensure that your pie is cooked evenly and that the filling is not overcooked.