My Favorite Vinegar Pie Crust Recipe

This isn't just any pie crust – it's a family heirloom! For generations, my grandma, mom, and aunt have used this incredibly versatile vinegar pie crust recipe, and it's the only one I'll ever use. Until I was 11, I didn't even know other pie crusts existed! Its secret? A touch of vinegar that creates the flakiest, most tender crust you've ever tasted. Perfect for both sweet and savory pies, this recipe makes four crusts – enough for four single-crust pies or two double-crust pies. Use it for classic apple pies (sprinkle the top with sugar!), hearty pot pies, savory pasties, or delicious turnovers. Don't substitute the shortening – lard is the only acceptable alternative. Butter and margarine have a lower fat content, resulting in a less flaky crust. Trust me on this one!

Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 8 mins

Calories 926 kcal

Protein 22g

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The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for My Favorite Vinegar Pie Crust

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup vegetable shortening (or lard)
White Vinegar
6-8 tablespoons ice water
Egg

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How to Make My Favorite Vinegar Pie Crust

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
Cut in the shortening (or lard) using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in the vinegar and ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead for a few seconds. Avoid overworking.
Divide the dough into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a disc about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick.
Wrap each disc individually in waxed paper, then place in airtight freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for later use or proceed to the next step for immediate use.
For immediate use: On a lightly floured surface, roll out each disc to your desired thickness. Gently transfer to your pie plate or baking surface.
Bake according to your pie recipe. For a double-crust pie, bake for approximately 8 minutes before adding filling.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

25 g

Sugar

Fat

82g

Carbs

23g

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Cuisine Preparation Occasion North American Pies And Tarts Desserts American Holiday Event Vegetarian Crusts Pastry Dough 2 Dietary Comfort Food Oamc Freezer Make Ahead Inexpensive Taste Mood Number Of Servings

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make My Favorite Vinegar Pie Crust?

My Favorite Vinegar Pie Crust takes about 28 minutes from start to finish — roughly 20 minutes to prepare and 8 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in My Favorite Vinegar Pie Crust?

My Favorite Vinegar Pie Crust has approximately 926 calories per serving, with about 22 g protein, 23 g carbohydrates and 101 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for My Favorite Vinegar Pie Crust?

The key ingredients for My Favorite Vinegar Pie Crust are Flour, Salt, Shortening, White Vinegar, Ice Water, Egg. See the full list with measurements above.