Never Fail Pie Crust(Makes 2 Pies)
A versatile and flaky pie crust that is easy to prepare, perfect for sweet or savory pies, suitable for both novice and experienced bakers seeking reliable results.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder together.
- Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the beaten egg, vinegar, and cold water to the mixture and mix until combined.
- Roll the dough as thin as desired to fit two 9-inch double crust pies.
- If pre-baking, bake the crusts for 10 minutes at 450°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure your shortening is very cold and handle the dough as little as possible. You can substitute half of the shortening with butter for added flavor. If you're in a pinch, all-purpose gluten-free flour can replace white flour, but the texture may vary. Also, consider adding a pinch of herbs for savory pies to enhance flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These pie crusts are perfect for both sweet and savory fillings. Serve with a scoop of ice cream for dessert, or fill with a hearty mixture for a main dish, like in a Ham-Macaroni Bake. Pair with a fresh salad, such as Clubhouse Salad, for a balanced meal. They can also be topped with whipped cream or fresh fruit for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
After baking, allow the pie crusts to cool completely before storing. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Never Fail Pie Crust(Makes 2 Pies) contains roughly 468 calories, with 5g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (50% of the Daily Value) and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. 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 use a different fat instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute butter for shortening, which will give the crust a richer flavor. However, using butter may result in a slightly less flaky texture. If you prefer a healthier option, coconut oil can also be used, but it will impart a subtle coconut flavor.
How do I know when the crust is done baking?
The crust should be golden brown and firm to the touch when fully baked. If you're pre-baking, keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning. For a perfectly baked pie after filling, ensure the edges are nicely browned and the filling is bubbling.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the wrapped dough for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling it out for use.
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).