Diet Pie Crust
A light and healthy pie crust made with cottage cheese and flour, perfect for cream pies or savory fillings, suitable for those seeking a lower-fat crust option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Squeeze the cottage cheese dry in a piece of cheesecloth.
- Press the cottage cheese through a sieve.
- Cut the shortening into the flour and salt until it resembles meal.
- Add the cottage cheese and mix well with a fork until it forms a ball of dough.
- Roll out on a lightly floured surface.
- Place the dough in an 8 or 9-inch pie pan.
- Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes if making a cream pie shell.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, consider using cold butter instead of shortening or incorporate a bit of vinegar into the dough. You can also substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but be aware it may change the texture slightly. If you're short on time, pre-made low-fat pie crusts can be a convenient alternative, especially for recipes like Mother'S Apple Pudding.
Serving Suggestions
This diet pie crust is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of fillings. Consider filling it with fresh fruits for a light dessert or creamy mixtures like low-fat custard. It goes well with toppings such as whipped cream or yogurt, making it an excellent base for a Parfait Dessert. Serve it alongside a light salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie crust in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you have unbaked crust, you can freeze it for up to a month; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. To reheat, place the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F until warm, about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Diet Pie Crust contains roughly 204 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1745mg 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 use a different type of cheese instead of cottage cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like ricotta or cream cheese, but keep in mind they may alter the flavor and texture. Ricotta will give a slightly creamier consistency, while cream cheese may need to be softened before mixing into the dough.
Is it possible to make this crust gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains a binding agent, such as xanthan gum, to maintain the crust's structure. This adjustment will allow you to enjoy this delicious pie crust in various gluten-free recipes.
How do I prevent the crust from shrinking while baking?
To prevent shrinkage, allow the crust to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the fat solidify, reducing the likelihood of shrinking. Additionally, using pie weights during baking can help maintain the shape of the crust.
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).