Never Fail Pie Dough
A versatile, foolproof pie dough with a tender, flaky texture, perfect for sweet or savory pies, suitable for bakers of all skill levels seeking reliable crusts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the shortening, flour, and salt together well.
- Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water and mix until a dough forms.
- Chill the dough before rolling out and using for pies.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful dough, consider substituting half of the shortening with butter or using a blend of whole wheat and plain flour. If you're in a pinch, vegetable shortening can be replaced with margarine. Ensure your water is ice-cold to help keep the dough tender. If the dough feels too crumbly, add an extra teaspoon of water gradually until it comes together.
Serving Suggestions
This pie dough is versatile and pairs beautifully with sweet or savory fillings. Try it with a classic apple pie or even a quiche for a delightful brunch. Serve slices alongside a fresh salad or a side of 'Catfish' Slaw for a refreshing contrast. You can also use this dough for hand pies filled with seasonal fruits or meats.
Storage & Reheating
Wrap any leftover pie dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then roll it out as needed. Avoid reheating or refreezing thawed dough to maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Never Fail Pie Dough contains roughly 1186 calories, with 19g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value) and protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. 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 dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dough a day in advance. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before rolling it out.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface and on the dough itself while rolling it out. Be careful not to add too much flour, as this can make the dough tough. If it's still too sticky, refrigerate it for about 15-30 minutes to firm it up.
Is this pie dough suitable for gluten-free diets?
This specific recipe contains plain flour, which is not gluten-free. However, you can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make it suitable for gluten-free diets. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for better texture. Always check labels for any additional allergens.
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).