Funny Cake(A Family Tradition At Christmastime.)
A nostalgic Christmas family favorite featuring a flaky, homemade crust perfect for sweet or savory fillings, suitable for festive gatherings and traditional holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the sifted flour and salt in a bowl.
- Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles cornmeal.
- Sprinkle with cold water and mix lightly.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured board.
- Roll into a 9 or 10-inch crust.
- Place the crust in a pan and flute the edges.
- Set aside until ready to fill or bake.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure the shortening is well-chilled before cutting it into the flour mixture. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or a vegan alternative for a plant-based option. Use a light touch when mixing in the water to avoid toughening the dough. For best results, let the crust rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes before rolling it out.
Serving Suggestions
This flaky crust is perfect for a variety of fillings, from sweet fruit pies to savory quiches. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a fresh Grill-Side Garden Salad for a delightful contrast. It also pairs wonderfully with a slice of The Punch Bowl Cake for dessert. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
If you have leftover dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat filled pies in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Funny Cake(A Family Tradition At Christmastime.) contains roughly 800 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 90g 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 make this crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out to ensure it rolls easily.
What can I use if I don't have cold water?
If you don't have cold water, you can substitute with cold milk or a bit of lemon juice mixed with water. This can add a subtle flavor to your crust while still keeping it moist.
How do I prevent my pie crust from shrinking while baking?
To prevent shrinking, make sure to relax the dough by chilling it after rolling it out and before baking. Additionally, using pie weights or dried beans to weigh down the crust while baking can help maintain 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).