Shirley'S Fried Pies
Shirley's Fried Pies are crispy, sweet treats with flaky crusts filled with your favorite filling, perfect for dessert or snack lovers craving homemade comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder in a bowl.
- Add shortening and mix until crumbly.
- Stir in beaten eggs and milk to form a dough.
- Refrigerate the dough overnight.
- Take pieces of dough about the size of a large marble.
- Roll each piece into a flat circle.
- Cut out large saucer-sized circles from the rolled dough.
- Place 1 1/2 tablespoons of very stiff filling onto one half of each circle.
- Brush water on half of the edge of the dough circle.
- Fold the dough over to enclose the filling.
- Crimp the edges together with a fork to seal.
- Deep fry the pies until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, consider using cold butter instead of shortening. If you're short on time, you can skip refrigerating the dough overnight, but this step enhances the flavor and texture. Experiment with different fillings like fruit preserves or sweetened cream cheese for variety. Pair these pies with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful treat, similar to the indulgence found in Snoball Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these fried pies warm, dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. They make a great dessert or snack and pair well with coffee or tea. For a festive presentation, consider serving with fresh fruit or whipped cream. They can also be enjoyed alongside savory dishes, making them a versatile addition to your meal, similar to the variety found in American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fried pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place the pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to crisp them up again, avoiding a soggy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shirley'S Fried Pies contains roughly 422 calories, with 8g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (38% of the Daily Value) and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2396mg per serving (104% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that the texture may be denser. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture. This substitution aligns well with vegetarian recipes, making them a healthier option.
What fillings work best for these fried pies?
You can fill these pies with a variety of fillings such as fruit preserves, chocolate, or even savory options like cheese and vegetables. Just ensure the filling is not too runny to prevent leaks during frying. For a special treat, try using a filling similar to the one in My Favorite Chocolate Chip Cookie.
How can I make the pies less greasy?
To reduce greasiness, make sure your oil is hot enough before frying; this helps seal the dough quickly. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the frying pan to maintain the oil temperature. After frying, place the pies on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
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).