Pour the flour onto a large silicone baking mat. This will be your working surface.
Make a small well in the center of the flour, and pour the sugar and salt over top.
Add the vegetable shortening and mix until cohesive.
Make another well in the mixture and add the cold water about 1/4 cup at a time, mixing each time.
Once all the water is added, knead the dough for about 3-5 minutes until a uniform ball forms.
Roll the dough flat using a rolling pin and trim to desired size.
To Bake the Pie Crust alone:
Place the rolled dough into a pie plate and press down.
Bake at 400° Fahrenheit for 15 minutes.
To Bake the Pie Crust with Filling:
Place the pie crust into the pie tin and fill with the desired filling
Place top layer over filling and pinch edges together or use a fork to press.
Cook according to the instructions for the filling. Serve and Enjoy!
Notes
Not Vegan? Replace the vegetable shortening with butter at a 1:1 ratio.
Gluten-Free? I’ve never tried this with gluten-free flour, but I don’t see why it wouldn’t work. Just be aware that you may need to adjust the amount of water used to achieve the right consistency.