Favorite Pastry(2-Crust Pie)
A classic flaky pastry perfect for double-crust pies, offering tender layers and a buttery flavor that complements sweet or savory fillings, ideal for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut shortening into flour and salt until particles are the size of small peas.
- Sprinkle in water one tablespoon at a time, tossing with a fork until all flour is moistened and pastry almost cleans the side of the bowl (1 to 2 teaspoons water can be added if necessary).
- Gather pastry into a ball.
- Shape into a flattened round on a lightly floured cloth-covered board.
- Divide pastry in half and shape into two rounds.
- Roll pastry 2 inches larger than inverted pie plate with a floured cloth-covered rolling pin.
- Fold pastry into fourths and place in pie plate.
- Unfold and ease into plate, pressing firmly against bottom and side.
- Turn desired filling into pastry-lined pie plate.
- Trim overhanging edge of pastry 1/2 inch from rim of plate.
- Roll the other round of pastry.
- Fold into fourths and cut slits so steam can escape.
- Place over filling and unfold.
- Trim overhanging edge of pastry 1 inch from rim of plate.
- Fold and roll top edge under lower edge, pressing on rim to seal.
- Flute the edges of the pie.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure your shortening is very cold before cutting it into the flour mixture. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter is a suitable substitute. When adding water, be cautious not to overmix; just enough to bring the dough together is ideal. If you want a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of sugar to the flour.
Serving Suggestions
This pastry pairs beautifully with fillings like fresh fruit, custard, or savory mixtures. Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful finish. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or a refreshing drink like Orange Cream Punch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered securely with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the crust stays crispy. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the crust soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Pastry(2-Crust Pie) contains roughly 791 calories, with 12g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1747mg 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
What can I do if my pastry is too dry?
If your pastry feels dry and crumbly, you can sprinkle in a little more cold water, one teaspoon at a time, and gently mix until it holds together. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to a tough crust.
Can I freeze the pastry dough?
Yes, the pastry dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before rolling it out.
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).