Mom'S Pie Crust
A classic homemade pie crust with flaky, tender layers, perfect for sweet or savory fillings. Suitable for bakers of all skill levels seeking a versatile pastry.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, salt, and Crisco, and blend together until it resembles coarse meal.
- Sprinkle with water and stir with a fork until all dry ingredients are moistened.
- Shape into a ball and roll dough to 1/8-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure your Crisco is cold before mixing. You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. If you don't have Crisco, unsalted butter can be used, though it may alter the flavor slightly. When adding water, do so gradually to avoid a sticky dough. Remember to chill the dough before rolling for best results.
Serving Suggestions
This pie crust is perfect for savory or sweet fillings, making it versatile for any occasion. It pairs beautifully with fruit fillings like those in Easy Homemade Apple Butter or can be used for creamy desserts like 4 Layer Lemon Or Chocolate Dessert. For a delightful meal, serve alongside Ann'S Sweet Sour Coleslaw as a refreshing side.
Storage & Reheating
If you have leftover pie crust, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the rolled dough or unbaked pie crust in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Pie Crust contains roughly 144 calories, with 5g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. 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 pie crust in advance. After mixing, shape it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to roll out later. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before using.
What can I do if my crust is too crumbly?
If your pie crust is too crumbly, it may be due to insufficient moisture. Try adding a little more cold water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix gently until the dough holds together. Avoid overworking the dough, as this can make it tough. Remember, the goal is to achieve a smooth, cohesive ball without over-mixing.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan by substituting the Crisco with a plant-based butter alternative. Make sure to check the ingredients to ensure it's completely vegan. Additionally, if you need to add moisture, consider using cold water or a non-dairy milk for a richer flavor without compromising the texture.
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).