No Fail Pie Crust

My ex-husband's grandma Fern made fabulous pie crust.  She shared her recipe with me years ago when I was a newlywed.  I've tried other recipes but always come back to grandma's.  It's quick, easy, and always turns out nicely.  You will need the following ingredients:

2 1/2 cups flour
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup shortening
1 Tblsp vinegar
1 egg
1/4 cup ice water







In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.  Cut the shortening into the flour with two forks until  it resembles coarse crumbs.  If you really want to have fun, I recommend using a vintage pastry cutter.  This makes me think of grandma and always puts a smile on my face.

In a small bowl, beat the egg, vinegar, and water together.  Make a well in the center of the flour and pour the egg mixture in. 

Mix with a fork until the dough starts to form a ball.  You may need to knead it with your hands a few times but be careful not to handle the dough any more than necessary.

Tear off two large sheets of plastic wrap or waxed paper.  Divide the dough into two equal balls.  Place one ball at a time on a piece of plastic wrap and cover with the other piece.  Roll the dough  between the sheets into a large circle. This prevents the dough from sticking to your rolling pin and makes it simple to lift into your dish.
 

Remove the top sheet. Place your baking dish on top of the dough. Lift the plastic wrap and flip your dish over.

Carefully form the dough into the bottom of your dish and trim the edges if necessary.

If you are making a single crust pie, place aluminum foil on top of the crust and fill with dry beans or rice.  Bake at 425 degrees for 6 minutes.  Remove foil and bake for another 6-8 minutes.