Grandma Shelton'S Fried Pies
Golden fried or baked pastries filled with sweet or savory fillings, perfect for dessert or snack times, loved for their crispy texture and comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
- Cut in the shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add ice water gradually and knead well until dough is smooth.
- Break off small pieces of dough about the size of an egg.
- Roll each piece on a well-floured board into a thin circle.
- Place filling in the middle of each pastry circle.
- Dampen the edge of the pastry with water.
- Fold over and seal the edges by pinching or crimping.
- Trim the shape if necessary.
- Fry in shortening until golden brown, or bake in a 375°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes until brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, consider substituting half the shortening with butter. You can also experiment with different fillings like fruit preserves or sweetened cream cheese. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to prevent soggy pies. If you're baking, use parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these fried pies warm for a delightful treat. They pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a refreshing contrast, serve with a side of Fruit Salad Or Pie. These pies also make a great dessert option for gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warm and crisp. Avoid microwaving as this can make the crust soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Shelton'S Fried Pies contains roughly 252 calories, with 1g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber.
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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a healthier option. However, this might alter the texture, making it denser. If you prefer a lighter pie, stick to all-purpose flour or a mix of both.
What types of fillings work best for these fried pies?
You can use a variety of fillings such as fruit preserves, fresh fruit, or even savory options like cooked meats or vegetables. Sweet fillings like apple or cherry are classic choices, but feel free to get creative with flavors to suit your taste.
How can I tell when the fried pies are done cooking?
Fried pies are done when they are golden brown and float to the top of the oil. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary based on the size of the pies and the temperature of the oil. Always test one pie first before frying the entire batch.
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).