Homemade Fried Pie Dough Recipe for Delicious Pies

Introduction

Indulging in the warm, flaky goodness of homemade fried pies is a timeless delight that evokes comfort and nostalgia. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat filled with luscious fruit preserves or a savory option packed with seasoned meats and vegetables, the foundation lies in a perfectly crafted dough. This dough recipe, provided by Love With Recipes, has been meticulously developed to ensure optimal texture, flavor, and versatility, making it suitable for a variety of fillings and cooking methods. The secret to achieving that desirable crispness and tender crumb lies in the careful balance of ingredients and techniques, from chilling the dough to sealing each pie securely. With detailed instructions and tips, this comprehensive guide aims to empower home cooks of all skill levels to create irresistible fried pies that will impress family and friends alike.

Time

Preparation Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Total Time

30 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Pastry blender or fork
• Plastic wrap or airtight container for chilling
• Rolling pin
• Flour for dusting
• Small bowl or cookie cutter (about 3-4 inches diameter)
• Frying thermometer (for precise oil temperature)
• Deep-frying pan or heavy-bottomed pot
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer
• Paper towels for draining
• Baking sheet (if baking)
• Parchment paper (for baking)

Tags

dessert, fried foods, homemade dough, flaky crust, quick recipes, classic American treats, family-friendly, versatile fillings, easy to prepare

Serving Size

Per serving: 1 fried pie (approximate weight: 150 grams)

Difficulty Level

Intermediate — requires basic baking and frying skills, but straightforward enough for dedicated home cooks

Allergen Information

• Contains gluten (wheat flour)
• Contains dairy (milk)
• Contains fats (shortening, oil)

Dietary Preference

Not suitable for vegan or vegetarian diets unless modifications are made (e.g., plant-based shortening, dairy-free milk).

Course

Dessert / Snack

Cuisine

American / Classic American comfort food

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Mixing the Dough

Begin by gathering all your ingredients and equipment. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons of salt. Use a pastry blender or a fork to cut in the 2 cups of shortening. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some larger pea-sized pieces. This process ensures an even distribution of fat, which is critical for achieving the desired flaky texture. Next, gradually pour in the 1 cup of milk while stirring gently with a spoon or your hands. Continue mixing until the dough begins to come together and forms a cohesive ball. Do not overmix, as overworking the dough can lead to toughness instead of flakiness.

Step 2: Chilling the Dough

Once the dough has formed into a ball, shape it into a flat disc for easier handling. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have more time. Chilling is a crucial step that allows the gluten to relax and the fats to solidify, making the dough easier to roll out and less prone to shrinking during baking or frying. For best results, do not skip this step, especially if you plan to work with the dough extensively or make multiple batches.

Step 3: Rolling Out the Dough

Remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly. Lightly flour a clean, flat surface and your rolling pin. Place the dough in the center and roll it out to approximately 1/8 inch thickness. Turn the dough occasionally and sprinkle with additional flour as needed to prevent sticking. Aim for an even thickness across the entire sheet, which will make cutting out uniform circles easier and ensure even cooking. For large batches, consider dividing the dough into manageable portions to facilitate rolling and cutting.

Step 4: Cutting Out Circles

Use a small bowl, a cookie cutter, or a round cutter approximately 3-4 inches in diameter to cut out circles from the rolled dough. Press firmly and lift carefully to maintain clean edges. Gather the scraps and reroll as necessary, but avoid overworking the dough to prevent toughening. The perfect circles are essential for uniform frying and presentation, as irregular shapes can lead to uneven cooking and a less appealing appearance.

Step 5: Filling and Sealing

Place 2 or more tablespoons of your chosen filling in the center of each dough circle. Common sweet options include fruit jams, preserves, or fresh chopped fruits like apples or cherries. For savory pies, consider seasoned meats, cheese, or vegetable mixtures. Moisten the edges of the circle with a little water or beaten egg to help seal. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly with your fingers or a fork to crimp and seal completely, ensuring no filling escapes during frying or baking. For decorative purposes, crimping with a fork adds a rustic look and extra sealing security.

Step 6: Cooking the Pies

Frying Method

Heat oil in a deep-fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for precise temperature control, as maintaining consistent heat is essential for evenly cooked, crispy pies. Carefully lower the filled and sealed pies into the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, turning occasionally with a slotted spoon or tongs, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. The frying process develops a beautiful crispy exterior and a tender interior, perfect for serving immediately.

Baking Method

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the filled pies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them adequately. Brush the tops with a light egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water) for a shiny, golden finish. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and flaky. Baking provides a lighter alternative to frying, with a crisp exterior and tender crumb, suitable for those seeking a less greasy option.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the fried or baked pies to cool slightly before serving. The warm, fragrant aroma will entice everyone to dig in. These homemade fried pies are delicious on their own but can be elevated with accompaniments such as a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of honey, or a dollop of whipped cream. For savory versions, serve with a side of fresh salad or dipping sauces like ranch or spicy salsa. The versatility of this dough makes it an ideal base for creative fillings, so feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients based on your preferences and seasonal availability.

Preparation Tips

• Keep ingredients cold to ensure a flaky crust, especially the shortening or butter.
• Chill the dough thoroughly—at least 30 minutes—to improve workability and texture.
• Use a sharp cutter to get clean edges for sealing and frying.
• Ensure oil temperature remains steady at 350°F for perfect frying; too hot can burn the crust, too cold can result in greasy pies.
• Use a slotted spoon or spider to handle hot pies safely and effectively during frying.
• If baking, brush with egg wash for a shiny, golden crust.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough.
• Replace shortening with chilled butter for a richer taste and layered texture.
• Use a fork to crimp edges securely, preventing filling leakage.
• Test fry one pie first to gauge oil temperature and cooking time.
• If making sweet pies, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant presentation.
• Experiment with fillings: apple cinnamon, cherry, peach, or savory options like seasoned ground beef or cheese and spinach.

Add-ons

• Powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar sprinkle for sweet pies
• Chocolate drizzle or caramel sauce for added decadence
• Fresh fruit slices or berries as garnish
• Sweet dips like honey or fruit preserves
• Savory options like dipping sauces, sour cream, or spicy salsa

Side Dishes

• Fresh mixed green salad with vinaigrette
• Fruit salad or compote
• Yogurt or vanilla ice cream
• Light vegetable soup for savory pies
• Homemade lemonade or iced tea

Improvements

• Incorporate different fats like butter or lard for varying textures and flavors.
• Add herbs or spices to the dough for savory applications.
• Use alternative flours, such as whole wheat or gluten-free blends, to cater to dietary needs.
• Experiment with fillings, including seasonal fruits, mixed nuts, or cheese blends.
• Adjust frying temperature and time based on pie size and filling moisture content for optimal results.

Save and Store

Uncooked assembled pies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying or baking. Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container to prevent drying out. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked pies on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, increase frying time by 1-2 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. Cooked pies can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for best results.

FAQ

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent drying out and bring it to room temperature for 5 minutes before rolling out.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), line a baking sheet with parchment paper, brush the pies with an egg wash, and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until golden brown. Baked pies are a lighter alternative with a crisp crust similar to fried versions.

What fillings work best?

Sweet fillings like apple, cherry, peach, or blueberry jams are classic choices. For savory pies, seasoned ground meat, cheese, spinach, or cooked vegetables are excellent. Feel free to customize based on seasonal ingredients and personal preferences.

How do I prevent the pies from bursting during frying?

Ensure the dough is sealed thoroughly, and do not overfill. Maintaining the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) is crucial. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and cause uneven cooking.

Can I use alternative flours?

Yes, gluten-free blends or whole wheat flour can be substituted, but note that the texture and flavor will differ slightly. Adjust the liquid content if necessary, as different flours absorb moisture differently.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of homemade fried pies begins with a reliable dough that balances flakiness, tenderness, and flavor. This recipe from Love With Recipes offers a thorough approach, emphasizing proper techniques like chilling, careful rolling, sealing, and appropriate cooking methods. With a wide array of fillings and customizable options, this versatile dough can serve as the foundation for countless culinary creations, satisfying both sweet tooths and savory snack lovers. Whether you’re preparing a quick treat for family or hosting a festive gathering, these fried pies promise to deliver delightful textures and irresistible aromas that will leave everyone craving more. Remember, the key to success lies in patience and attention to detail—so take your time, experiment with flavors, and enjoy the process of creating these classic comfort foods from scratch.

References

• Joy of Cooking. (2019). Fried Pie Recipes and Techniques.
• The New York Times Cooking. (2021). Homemade Dough for Fried Pies.