Mix Ahead Pie Crust
A versatile, flaky pie crust mixture that can be prepared ahead and stored, perfect for sweet or savory pies, offering a buttery texture suitable for all baking levels.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, lard, and salt into small pebbles until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a gallon glass jar for storage.
- Use 1 cup of the mixture to make an 8-inch pie shell.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a flaky texture, avoid overworking the dough when mixing the flour, lard, and salt. If you want a vegan version, substitute the lard with coconut oil or vegan butter. For added flavor, consider incorporating a tablespoon of sugar or a dash of vinegar into the mixture. Always chill the mixture before using it to help with the rolling process.
Serving Suggestions
This pie crust is perfect for both sweet and savory pies. Serve with a homemade filling like apple pie or quiche. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert or alongside a fresh salad drizzled with Fresh Vegetable Dressing for a light meal. It also complements dishes like Spicy Peanut Noodles beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie crust mixture in a tightly sealed gallon glass jar in the refrigerator for up to a month. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. To use frozen crust, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling it out for your pie.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mix Ahead Pie Crust contains roughly 2552 calories, with 43g protein, 321g carbohydrates, and 118g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (108% of the Daily Value), protein (87% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1462mg per serving (64% 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 all-purpose flour instead of regular flour?
Yes, all-purpose flour works well for this pie crust. It may yield a slightly different texture, but it will still create a delicious crust. Just ensure you measure it accurately, and you can use the same amount as specified in the recipe.
How can I tell when the pie crust is done baking?
The pie crust is done when it turns a light golden brown color and feels firm to the touch. If you're using it for a blind bake, you can add pie weights to prevent it from puffing up. Keep an eye on it after the 15-minute mark for the best results.
Can I make this crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crust mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out. This makes it convenient for last-minute pie-making!
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).