When it comes to baking sweet treats, Crisco is often the unsung hero. While its reputation may have taken a hit in recent years, there’s no denying that this staple ingredient played a significant role in grandma’s kitchen. The secret to her legendary baked goods wasn’t just her cooking skills – it was her reliance on Crisco and lard. These old-school ingredients had a way of elevating flavors and textures that’s hard to replicate with modern alternatives.
In fact, I’m convinced that using the right amount of Crisco is key to unlocking the full potential of your baked goods. That’s why I’ve rounded up 10 of my favorite Criso recipes that are sure to become new classics. So, without further ado, here they are – and remember, don’t even think about substituting anything for the real deal!
Peanut Butter Cookies
As I gaze upon these chewy, round peanut butter cookies with their distinctive fork marks, a wave of nostalgia washes over me, transporting me back to my grandmother’s kitchen where memories were made and traditions were forged. The Formica counters and the reliable Kelvinator that seemed almost too large for its purpose still linger vividly in my mind. One bite of these soft, buttery cookies is enough to bring a lump to my throat, a mix of sentimentality and sheer pleasure at the taste.
These cookies truly embody the essence of classic peanut butter treats, making them the perfect choice for anyone seeking an authentic recipe from days gone by.
Chocolate Chip Cookies with Crisco
The addition of Crisco to these cookies infuses them with a deep, indulgent flavor and a tender, velvety texture that’s simply irresistible. For me, they’re one of the most satisfying treats to bake. The golden-brown hue is just the beginning – each bite is a revelation, with flavors melding together in perfect harmony. While some might opt for darker chocolate chips, I believe the classic combination of Crisco and semi-sweet chocolate chips is unbeatable.
It’s all about finding that perfect balance, and this recipe nails it.
Pie Crust
Indulge in the simplicity of this four-ingredient pie crust, which is so delectable you might be tempted to skip the filling altogether (don’t worry, I’ve tried it and can attest to its scrumptiousness). To create this culinary delight, you’ll only need a few basic ingredients: all-purpose flour, salt, Crisco, and water. The uncooked dough boasts a dense, sticky consistency that makes shaping the crust an effortless task.
With its ease of preparation and tender flaky texture, making 100%-from-scratch pies has never been more accessible or enjoyable.
Butter Tarts
These sweet treats boast flaky crusts infused with warm buttery goodness, while their fillings burst with complex flavors courtesy of brown sugar, currants or raisins, vanilla, corn syrup, and a hint of egg. The resulting taste experience is rich and indulgent, expertly balancing the sweetness with the savory undertones of the crust.
At around one to two bites per tart, they’re perfectly portioned for sharing at gatherings like potlucks and parties – just be prepared to triple or quadruple the recipe if you’re planning on feeding a crowd!
Vanilla Cupcakes
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of these one-bowl cupcakes, boasting a denser and more filling profile compared to their traditional counterparts. Perfect for breakfast pastry enthusiasts seeking a sweet start to their morning, these treats deliver a fantastic spongy texture and robust vanilla flavor. For those who prefer a nutty twist, substituting almond extract for vanilla offers an added layer of complexity.
Moreover, the icing-free option is just as enjoyable, making them a versatile treat that’s sure to please.
Strawberry Shortcake
Crisco’s natural vegan-friendliness is a bonus that wasn’t even considered when the company was founded in 1911. Fast forward to today, it’s likely a welcome development for the brand. If you’re seeking a sweet and subtly spicy vegan dessert option, Crisco is an excellent choice. Try making this strawberry shortcake recipe, which features individual serving-sized shortcakes that are almost too cute to eat.
The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity: just layer together vegan-friendly shortbread, whipped cream, and sugared strawberries. This quick and easy recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, resulting in a taste experience that’s nothing short of vegan bliss.
Lemon Blueberry Scones
The allure of these scones lies in their masterful blend of sweet and tart flavors. The dough’s sugary sweetness is expertly countered by the tangy zip of lemon zest, while the plump blueberries bring both elements into harmonious balance. This complex flavor profile is further enhanced by the delightfully crunchy texture, making each bite a joy to savor. While they may be a bit higher in carbs than ideal, their near-zero fat content makes them a guilt-free indulgence at any time of day.
When served with hot tea and dainty finger sandwiches, these scones evoke the elegance of a garden party, transporting me to a world of refined sophistication.
Buttermilk Biscuits
There’s something truly special about biting into a warm, buttery biscuit in the morning. The combination of soft, fluffy texture and flaky layers is absolute perfection. What’s even better? You can achieve this delightful consistency with just three simple ingredients: Crisco, self-rising flour, and buttermilk.
Whether you’re serving these buttermilk biscuits for breakfast or as a satisfying accompaniment to fried chicken or pork chops at dinner time, I’m confident that they’ll quickly become a family favorite.
Banana Nut Bread
When it comes to traditional banana bread, most people are familiar with my affection for Hawaiian-style recipes. However, today I’m excited to share a recipe that yields a rich, dense, and nutty banana bread that’s sure to become a staple in your household. This particular loaf is surprisingly filling, boasting a soft and moist interior and a beautifully caramelized crust with crispy edges. To elevate the presentation, I like to dust mine lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
But don’t worry, this recipe has been perfected to require minimal deviation – simply follow it as written and you’ll be rewarded with a deliciously satisfying treat.
Amish Bread
In many parts of the United States, there exist thriving Amish communities, with at least one found in 31 out of 50 states. It’s likely that if you reside in one of these states, you’ve experienced firsthand the influx of visitors flocking to local markets and bakeries to purchase artisanal cheese and freshly baked bread – a staple of Amish cuisine. Perhaps you’ve even had the chance to visit an Amish community yourself.
The allure is undeniable, driven by the exceptional quality of their bread and cheese. With this recipe, you can recreate the magic of authentic Amish bread in the comfort of your own home. To get started, gather the essential ingredients: water, yeast, sugar, salt, Crisco, and all-purpose flour – likely already stocked in your kitchen pantry. Before you know it, you’ll be indulging in a warm, fluffy loaf, fresh from the oven, in just a few short hours.
I’m Louise Cutler, a food lover who enjoys creating simple, flavorful recipes that anyone can make and share at home.
