Best Vegan Tart Crust Recipe for Perfect Desserts

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Creating the perfect vegan tart crust can feel like a daunting task, but it’s easier than you think! Whether you’re baking a sweet fruit tart or a savory vegetable quiche, the foundation matters.

A great crust should be tender, flaky, and hold together beautifully without any animal products. In this recipe, I’ll share my tried-and-true method for the best vegan tart crust that’s buttery, crisp, and incredibly versatile.

This crust uses simple pantry staples and comes together quickly, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers looking for a reliable vegan option.

From pies to tarts, having a dependable crust recipe is essential. This one is adaptable to a variety of fillings, from luscious chocolate or fresh berries to hearty mushrooms or roasted tomatoes.

Plus, it freezes well, so you can prepare it ahead of time. Ready to master your next vegan tart?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan tart crust is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s made without any dairy or eggs, yet still achieves that classic flaky, buttery texture you crave.

The secret lies in the combination of cold coconut oil and a splash of plant-based milk, which helps bind the dough while keeping it light and crumbly.

Secondly, it’s incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No special equipment or fancy vegan butter substitutes required!

It also bakes up beautifully golden brown and holds its shape perfectly, which is crucial when you’re filling it with juicy fruits or creamy custards.

Lastly, it’s a versatile base that you can customize with herbs or spices for savory tarts or add a touch of sugar for sweet creations. This crust will become your go-to foundation for all your vegan tart baking adventures.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour – for structure and tenderness
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt – enhances flavor
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar – optional, for sweet tarts
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) cold coconut oil – solid, for flakiness
  • 2-3 tablespoons cold water – to bring the dough together
  • 1 tablespoon plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat) – adds moisture
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar – optional, for tenderness

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl – to combine ingredients
  • Pastry cutter or fork – for cutting in the coconut oil
  • Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy
  • Rolling pin – to roll out the dough
  • Tart pan (9-inch) with removable bottom – for easy tart removal
  • Plastic wrap – to chill the dough
  • Baking weights or dried beans – for blind baking

Instructions

  1. Combine dry ingredients: In your mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar (if making a sweet crust) until evenly mixed.
  2. Cut in the coconut oil: Add the cold, solid coconut oil to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or fork, cut the coconut oil into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces. This step is crucial for creating that flaky texture.
  3. Add wet ingredients: In a separate small bowl, combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Pour this mixture over the flour and coconut oil. Add cold water one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with your hands or a spatula, just until the dough starts to come together. Avoid overworking.
  4. Form the dough: Gather the dough into a ball, then flatten it into a disk. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling firms up the coconut oil and makes the dough easier to roll out.
  5. Roll out the dough: Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle, about 1/8 inch thick. Carefully transfer it to your tart pan, pressing it gently into the edges and trimming any excess dough.
  6. Blind bake the crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with baking weights or dried beans to prevent puffing. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment and bake for another 8-10 minutes until the crust is golden and cooked through.
  7. Cool and fill: Let your crust cool completely before adding your favorite vegan filling. This crust pairs perfectly with everything from fresh fruit and custards to savory vegetable mixtures.

Tips & Variations

For a nutty twist, try substituting 1/4 cup of the flour with finely ground almonds or oat flour.

If you prefer a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

To make a savory crust, omit the sugar and add 1 teaspoon dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.

For an ultra-flaky crust, avoid over-mixing and keep all ingredients cold.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1/8 tart crust)
Calories 160 kcal
Fat 10 g
Carbohydrates 18 g
Fiber 1 g
Sugar 3 g (if sugar is added)
Protein 2 g

Serving Suggestions

This vegan tart crust is a blank canvas that invites creativity. For a delightful dessert, fill it with a luscious Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream or a velvety chocolate ganache like in the Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe.

If you prefer savory, consider layering roasted vegetables or a creamy vegan cheese filling. Serve alongside a fresh salad or your favorite soup such as the Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe (veganized, of course!).

For parties, cut into small tartlets for easy sharing. This crust also freezes well; just thaw and re-bake slightly to refresh the crispness before filling.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan baker or just starting your plant-based journey, this best vegan tart crust recipe is a must-have in your culinary repertoire. It’s simple, reliable, and incredibly delicious.

The use of coconut oil and plant milk creates a tender, flaky crust that holds up beautifully to any filling you choose. Plus, with easy customization options, you can tailor it to sweet or savory dishes effortlessly.

Taking the time to master this crust will elevate your homemade tarts and impress family and friends alike. If you want more inspiring recipes to complement your baking, check out other favorites like the Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or the indulgent Chocolate Ganache Recipe For Macarons.

Happy baking, and enjoy every flaky, vegan bite!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Tart Crust Recipe

Description: A flaky and buttery vegan tart crust perfect for sweet or savory fillings. Easy to make with simple plant-based ingredients.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 1 9-inch tart crust

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, solid
  • 3 tbsp maple syrup
  • 3 tbsp cold water
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt.
  3. Cut in solid coconut oil until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Stir in maple syrup and vanilla extract.
  5. Add cold water one tablespoon at a time until dough forms.
  6. Press dough evenly into a 9-inch tart pan.
  7. Prick crust with a fork to prevent puffing.
  8. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden.
  9. Cool before filling.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 14g | Carbs: 22g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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