Patra'S Favorite Pie Crust
A buttery, flaky pie crust perfect for sweet or savory fillings, offering a classic texture and flavor that suits both beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place flour in a bowl.
- Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle with cold water and stir with a fork until the dough cleans the sides of the bowl.
- Shape the dough into a ball.
- Remove from bowl and place on a floured board.
- Flatten the dough into a disc.
- Roll out into a thin circle.
- Fold the circle into quarters.
- Place into a pie pan and unfold.
- Trim the outer edges to within 1 inch of the edge of the pie plate.
- Turn under the edge and finish the crust as desired.
- Prick sides and bottom thoroughly with a fork.
- Bake at 475°F (246°C) for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Cool the crust.
- Add your favorite filling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure your shortening is very cold before cutting it in. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of butter. When adding water, do it gradually to prevent the dough from becoming too wet. It’s important to handle the dough gently to avoid overworking it, which can lead to a tough crust.
Serving Suggestions
This pie crust serves as a versatile base for many fillings, from sweet to savory. It pairs beautifully with Mona'S Pumpkin Bread for a seasonal twist or can be used for a classic fruit pie filled with fresh berries. Consider serving slices with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
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 dough for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the crust in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until warm and crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Patra'S Favorite Pie Crust contains roughly 2176 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 240g fat. 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 dough in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to let it thaw in the fridge before rolling it out.
What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is too crumbly and won't hold together, gradually add a little more cold water, one teaspoon at a time, until it comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
How can I prevent my pie crust from shrinking while baking?
To prevent shrinking, make sure to chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. Also, avoid stretching the dough when placing it in the pie pan, and prick the bottom and sides to allow steam to escape.
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).