Single Pie Crust
A classic flaky pie crust made from simple ingredients, perfect for sweet or savory pies, offering a tender texture and rich flavor suitable for any baking occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, salt, and Crisco with a pastry blender until combined.
- Add ice water and mix with a fork until the dough begins to hold together.
- Handle the dough as little as possible to keep it tender.
- Roll out the dough on a floured board.
- Fit the rolled-out dough into a pie pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure your Crisco is cold before mixing. If you don't have Crisco, you can substitute with unsalted butter or margarine, but this may alter the texture slightly. When adding ice water, start with two tablespoons and add more as needed to form the dough. Handle the dough minimally to keep it tender. This crust pairs beautifully with Apple Pineapple Pie.
Serving Suggestions
This single pie crust is perfect for both sweet and savory pies. Serve it filled with your favorite fillings, such as a classic apple pie or a savory quiche. It also pairs well with sides like a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Try it with Grandmom Hanselman'S Cranberry Sauce for a delightful contrast if making a tart.
Storage & Reheating
If you have leftover pie crust, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If freezing, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and use it directly in your pie recipe without needing to roll it out again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Single Pie Crust contains roughly 328 calories, with 9g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1746mg 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 pie crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie crust in advance. After rolling it out, place it in the pie pan and cover it with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it thaw before baking.
What can I use instead of Crisco?
If you prefer not to use Crisco, unsalted butter or margarine can be excellent substitutes. For a vegan option, try using vegetable shortening or coconut oil. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly depending on the fat used.
How do I prevent my crust from shrinking while baking?
To prevent shrinking, allow the crust to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking. Also, avoid stretching the dough when fitting it into the pie pan. If you're pre-baking, use pie weights to help keep the crust in place.
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).