Southern Fried Pies
Golden Southern Fried Pies feature a flaky crust filled with sweet dried fruit, offering a comforting treat perfect for family gatherings or casual dessert cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl.
- Cut shortening into the dry mixture until crumbly.
- Gradually add milk, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut out rounds approximately the size of a saucer.
- Place 1 tablespoon of cooked and drained dried fruit on one half of each round.
- Fold the dough over the fruit to form a half-moon shape.
- Moisten the inner edge with cold water and press together with a fork to seal.
- Brown the pies in shallow fat, turning until both sides are golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, ensure your shortening is cold before cutting it into the flour mixture. You can substitute shortening with unsalted butter or lard for a richer flavor. If you want to experiment, try using a mix of dried fruits such as cherries, apples, or peaches. To add extra flair, consider sprinkling a little cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for added warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful pies warm as a sweet treat, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a more savory option, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or pairing with dishes like Becnel Peas And Tomatoes for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fried pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps retain crispiness, unlike microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Fried Pies contains roughly 6 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1005mg per serving (44% 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 fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
Using fresh fruit is possible, but it requires more preparation. You'll need to cook it down to reduce moisture and sweetness, otherwise, the pies might become soggy. Stick to dried fruits for best results, but if you choose fresh, ensure they are well-drained and not overly juicy.
How do I know when the pies are fully cooked?
The pies are fully cooked when they are golden brown on both sides, typically taking about 3-5 minutes per side in hot fat. To test, you can break one open; the dough should be cooked through and the fruit filling warm and inviting. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out for best results. This makes it convenient to whip up Southern Fried Pies whenever you're ready to enjoy them.
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).