Baking & Pastry > Vegan Baking > Vegan Baking Recipes > Vegan Pie Crust Recipe

Flaky Vegan Pie Crust

This vegan pie crust is unbelievably flaky and easy to make. It's perfect for sweet or savory pies and comes together with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
20-25 minutes (for pre-baking)
Servings
8
Ingredients
  • 2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 cup Vegan Butter (cold, cut into cubes)
  • 6-8 tablespoons Ice Water

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt until well combined. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed throughout the crust.

Cut in the Vegan Butter

Add the cold, cubed vegan butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It's crucial that the butter remains cold for a flaky crust. Work quickly to prevent the butter from melting.

Add Ice Water

Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Continue adding water until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten and result in a tough crust.

Form the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently gather the dough into a ball. Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up, making the dough easier to roll out.

Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim the edges and crimp as desired.

Pre-Baking (Optional)

If your recipe calls for a pre-baked crust (blind baking), prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. Remove the pie weights and parchment paper, and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown.

Baking with Filling

If your recipe calls for baking the crust with a filling, add your filling and bake according to your pie recipe's instructions.

← Easy Vegan Sandwich Bread Flax Egg Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies →

FAQ

  • Can I use a food processor to make this crust?

    Yes, you can use a food processor. Pulse the flour, salt, and cold vegan butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Then, slowly add the ice water, pulsing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
  • What if my dough is too sticky?

    If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour, as this can make the crust tough.
  • Can I freeze this pie crust?

    Yes, you can freeze the pie crust dough. Wrap the discs of dough tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.