Aunt Della'S Make Ahead Pie Crust
A versatile make-ahead pie crust recipe that yields flaky, tender crusts perfect for sweet and savory pies, ideal for meal prep and busy baking days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the plain flour, Crisco, and salt thoroughly in a large bowl.
- Knead the mixture until the dough is no longer sticky.
- Pinch off enough dough for each crust needed.
- Roll each portion into a ball and place into Ziploc freezer bags.
- Use immediately or freeze for future use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure your Crisco is very cold before mixing. If you prefer a more buttery flavor, consider substituting half of the Crisco with unsalted butter. You can also add a tablespoon of sugar for a slightly sweeter crust that pairs beautifully with Daiquiri Dessert.
Serving Suggestions
This pie crust is versatile and can be used for both sweet and savory pies. Serve filled with seasonal fruits or your favorite filling, and consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also works well for quiches or pot pies, making it a great base for American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store the prepared dough balls in Ziploc freezer bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The dough can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Della'S Make Ahead Pie Crust contains roughly 1820 calories, with 52g protein, 382g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (129% of the Daily Value), protein (103% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1761mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it may result in a denser crust. You might want to combine it with all-purpose flour to achieve a balance between health and texture.
How long can I freeze the pie crust dough?
The dough can be frozen for up to three months. For best results, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in Ziploc bags to ensure freshness and maintain quality.
What is the best way to roll out the dough?
Dust your work surface with flour to prevent sticking, and use a rolling pin to roll out the dough evenly. For a perfect circle, start from the center and work your way out, turning the dough occasionally for an even thickness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).