Crisco Single Pie Crust
A versatile homemade pie crust with flaky texture and tender crumb, perfect for sweet or savory pies, appealing to bakers of all skill levels seeking a classic crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spoon flour into measuring cup and level off.
- Mix flour and salt in a medium bowl.
- Cut in Crisco with 2 knives until all flour is blended in to form pea-sized chunks.
- Sprinkle with water, one tablespoon at a time.
- Toss lightly with a fork until dough will form a ball.
- Press between hands to form a 5 or 6-inch pancake. Flour the rolling surface and rolling pin lightly.
- Roll into a circle large enough for the pie pan and enough to flute the edges.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure your Crisco is very cold before incorporating it with the flour. If you don’t have Crisco, you can substitute with unsalted butter or a vegan alternative for a dairy-free option. Adding a teaspoon of vinegar to the water can also enhance the crust's tenderness. Be careful not to overwork the dough to maintain its flaky texture.
Serving Suggestions
This single pie crust is perfect for any sweet or savory filling. Serve it with a scoop of ice cream for a dessert pie, or pair it with a fresh salad like Jarrett Anderson Tartar'S Pistachio Salad for a delightful lunch. Consider drizzling with Fresh Lemon Sauce for a zesty finish.
Storage & Reheating
To store your pie crust, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out. This helps maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crisco Single Pie Crust contains roughly 53 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1746mg per serving (76% 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 make this crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crust in advance! Once you've formed the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before rolling out for easy use.
What if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is too crumbly, it may need a bit more moisture. Add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough holds together without being sticky. Be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen the crust.
How do I prevent my crust from shrinking while baking?
To prevent shrinking, allow the crust to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking. Additionally, using pie weights or dried beans during blind baking can help keep the crust in place, ensuring it maintains its shape.
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).