Hillbilly Fried Pies
Hillbilly Fried Pies are crispy, sweet-filled pastries with tender fruit interior, perfect for a comforting treat or dessert that appeals to all ages and tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
- Cut in the Crisco until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add water gradually and mix until a firm dough forms.
- Work the dough into a ball, then divide into two halves.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll one half into about a 10-inch square.
- Cut the rolled dough into four 5-inch squares or circles.
- Repeat with the second half of the dough after filling the first four.
- Prepare dried fruit by cooking until tender, sweeten to taste, and add enough water to prevent sticking.
- Fill each dough square or circle with the prepared fruit.
- Seal the edges well.
- Fry in about 1 inch of Crisco over medium heat, turning once, until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure the Crisco is cold before cutting it into the flour mixture. You can substitute butter or a vegan alternative if desired. Experiment with different dried fruits like apples or cherries for unique flavors. If using fresh fruit, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful fried pies warm, dusted with powdered sugar, or drizzled with a bit of honey for extra sweetness. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of Mulled Cran-Apple Cider for a comforting dessert experience. Consider serving alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fried pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring they retain their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hillbilly Fried Pies contains roughly 138 calories, with 4g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 878mg per serving (38% 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 use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit for the filling?
Yes, you can use fresh fruit, but be sure to cook it down until tender and possibly add a bit of sugar to sweeten it. Adjust the cooking time as fresh fruit may require less time than dried. Ensure there's enough moisture to prevent sticking.
How do I know when the pies are done frying?
The pies are done when they turn a beautiful golden brown color. It usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them, as the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the heat of the oil.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to two days. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out to ensure easy handling.
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).