Spoiler: the winner wasn’t the most expensive one.

Patty is a food and drink writer/editor whose work has appeared in Eater, Food Network, The Kitchn, and more.

Keep the dough cold. If the dough starts sticking, pop it back in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes.

Don't panic if it cracks. Small tears or cracks are completely normal. Just pinch or press the dough back together with your fingers.

Bake on a sheet pan. Placing the pie plate on a baking sheet makes it easier to transfer in and out of the oven and catches any dough that falls off, burns, and triggers the smoke alarm while your baby is napping (ask me how I know).

Watch for color, not just the timer. Package directions are a great starting point, but every oven is different. Look for an evenly golden-brown crust, and don’t be afraid to take it out early or bake it for longer than instructed.