Grandma'S Perfect Pie Crust(Makes 2 Generous Crusts)
A classic flaky pie crust perfect for sweet or savory pies, offering buttery flavor and crisp texture. Suitable for bakers seeking a homemade, tender crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut in shortening until crumbly.
- Add 4 tablespoons ice water. Stir quickly and handle as little as possible, forming into 2 balls.
- Roll out each ball to the size of your pie pan (about 12 inches).
- When baking a crust without filling, prick it well with a fork before baking at 425°F until golden (5 to 7 minutes).
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier pie crust, make sure your shortening is very cold before cutting it into the flour. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with unsalted butter for a richer flavor, though the texture may vary slightly. Adding a bit of sugar can sweeten the crust if you're making a dessert pie. For savory pies, consider adding herbs to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
This pie crust pairs beautifully with a variety of fillings. Consider making a classic apple pie or even Fried Jelly Pies for a sweet treat. For savory options, it works well with pot pies or quiches. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for dessert, or a side of Savory Skillet Potatoes for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
If you have leftover pie crust, wrap the dough balls tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the wrapped dough for up to 3 months. To use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling out. Baked crusts can be stored at room temperature for a day or two, but are best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Perfect Pie Crust(Makes 2 Generous Crusts) contains roughly 2126 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 240g fat. 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 in advance. Wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before rolling it out.
What can I use if I don't have shortening?
If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer flavor. Alternatively, you can use lard or coconut oil for a different texture and taste.
How do I prevent my crust from shrinking while baking?
To prevent shrinking, make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out and after placing it in the pie pan. Additionally, avoid stretching the dough when fitting it into the pan, and consider using pie weights if baking without a filling.
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).