Pastry For 9-Inch Pie
A classic flaky pastry perfect for 9-inch pies, this recipe yields a tender, golden crust with a buttery flavor. Ideal for sweet or savory fillings, it suits both novice and experienced bakers looking for a reliable homemade pie crust that complements any filling.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour and salt into a bowl.
- Cut in shortening using a pastry blender or fork until the pieces are the size of small peas.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon water over part of the mixture, gently toss with a fork, then push to the side of the bowl.
- Sprinkle the next tablespoon of water over the dry part, mix lightly, and push to the moistened part at the side.
- Repeat until all the mixture is moistened, then form into a ball.
- Flatten the ball on a lightly floured surface.
- Roll from the center to the edge until the dough is 1/8-inch thick.
- Fit the pastry into a 9-inch pie plate.
- Trim 1/2 to 1 inch beyond the edge, fold under, and flute.
- Prick the bottom and sides well with a fork.
- Bake in a 450°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, consider using cold butter instead of shortening, or a combination of both. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or even coconut oil for a unique flavor. Always handle the dough as little as possible to avoid toughening it. It's also key to keep everything cold, including your mixing bowl.
Serving Suggestions
This pastry is perfect for a variety of pie fillings, from classic apple to savory quiches. Serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. It also pairs beautifully with Ambrosia Bavarian Salad for a festive brunch. Consider adding fresh fruit on top for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
If you have leftover pie crust, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days. Alternatively, you can freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use it directly from frozen for your next pie.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pastry For 9-Inch Pie contains roughly 815 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1745mg per serving (76% 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 pastry ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for a day or two. If you need to store it longer, wrap it well and freeze it. Just remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator before rolling it out.
What should I do if my dough is too dry?
If your dough feels too dry and crumbly, gradually add more cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together. Make sure to mix gently to avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to a tough crust.
How can I prevent my crust from shrinking while baking?
To prevent shrinking, ensure the dough is well-chilled before rolling it out, and avoid stretching it when fitting it into the pie plate. You can also weigh down the crust with pie weights or dried beans during the initial baking to help maintain its shape.
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).