Grandma Novak Pie Crust
A classic homemade pie crust recipe featuring flaky, tender layers perfect for sweet or savory fillings, ideal for bakers seeking a versatile and easy-to-make pastry.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, salt, and shortening together until crumbly.
- Add water gradually and mix all together until dough forms.
- Roll out the dough to fit your pie pan.
- Use as needed for a double or two single crust pies.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a flakier crust, ensure your shortening is cold before mixing. You can substitute half of the shortening with butter for added flavor. If you don't have shortening, use an equal amount of coconut oil or margarine. For a sweeter pie crust, consider adding a tablespoon of sugar to the flour mixture. Always roll out the dough on a floured surface to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile pie crust is perfect for a variety of fillings. It works wonderfully with sweet pies like apple or cherry, and savory options like quiches. For a delightful twist, serve your pie with a side of Apricot Jalapeno Jelly for added flavor. You can also pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for desserts.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie crust dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 2 months; just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using. If you've already baked a pie, cover it loosely with foil and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Novak Pie Crust contains roughly 2558 calories, with 12g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 241g 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 3000mg per serving (130% 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 pie crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling it out for use.
What can I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels too crumbly, try adding a little more water, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together better. Be cautious not to overwork the dough, as this can make it tough.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, you can easily make this pie crust vegan by substituting the shortening with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine. Just ensure that your chosen ingredient is suitable for vegan recipes.
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).