Pie Crust(Makes 5 Single Crusts)
A flaky, buttery pie crust perfect for sweet or savory fillings, suitable for homemade pies and tarts, offering a tender texture and classic flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl and mix well with a fork.
- Add the shortening and mix with a fork until all ingredients are crumbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure your shortening is very cold before mixing it with the dry ingredients. You can substitute half of the shortening with unsalted butter for added flavor. If you don't have white vinegar, lemon juice can work as a substitute. When mixing, avoid overworking the dough to keep it tender. This crust pairs beautifully with dishes like Pineapple Cake For A Crowd.
Serving Suggestions
This pie crust works well for sweet and savory pies alike. Serve it filled with your favorite fillings, such as fruit, custard, or even savory mixtures. It pairs wonderfully with desserts like Heavenly Angel Food Cake or a rich Banana Pudding(Rich). For a festive touch, consider garnishing with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Storage & Reheating
Store any unused pie crusts wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the wrapped crusts for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and allow to come to room temperature before rolling out. Reheat baked pie crusts in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pie Crust(Makes 5 Single Crusts) contains roughly 896 calories, with 15g protein, 175g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (34% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1937mg per serving (84% 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 make the pie crust ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. If frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator before rolling it out. This makes it convenient for busy baking days.
What can I do if my pie crust is too crumbly?
If your pie crust is too crumbly, it may need more moisture. Gradually add a tablespoon of cold water until the dough holds together without being sticky. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the crust tough.
How do I prevent my pie crust from shrinking?
To prevent shrinking, allow the pie crust to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes after rolling it out. This helps relax the gluten in the dough. Additionally, when baking, use pie weights to keep the crust flat and prevent it from shrinking.
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).