Making a perfect vegan tart dough might seem intimidating, but with the right recipe and ingredients, it becomes an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Whether you’re preparing a sweet fruit tart or a savory vegetable quiche, having a reliable base is essential.
This basic vegan tart dough recipe is simple, versatile, and made with wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. The dough is flaky, tender, and easy to work with, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Plus, it’s free from any animal products, making it suitable for anyone following a vegan lifestyle or those with dairy and egg allergies.
In this post, I’ll guide you through the ingredients, the equipment you’ll need, step-by-step instructions, and some handy tips to make your tart crust flawless every time. If you love baking, don’t forget to check out some of my other favorite recipes like Glazed Twist Donut Recipe and Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe for more delightful plant-based treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan tart dough recipe is a game changer for several reasons. First, it uses simple, natural ingredients without any complicated substitutes, making it approachable for everyone.
The dough is perfectly flaky yet sturdy enough to hold your favorite fillings without becoming soggy or crumbly.
Moreover, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily adapt it for sweet or savory tarts by adjusting the seasonings.
It’s also a healthier alternative to traditional tart doughs since it avoids butter and eggs but still delivers on taste and texture. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or prepping a cozy dessert for yourself, this recipe will become your go-to base in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour – For the perfect structure and crispiness
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – To enhance flavor
- 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil – Provides moisture and tenderness
- 3-4 tablespoons ice-cold water – To bring the dough together
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – Helps tenderize and adds subtle flavor
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or fork
- Rolling pin
- Tart pan (9-inch recommended)
- Plastic wrap or reusable silicone wrap
- Baking weights or dried beans (optional, for blind baking)
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until evenly mixed.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the vegetable oil and apple cider vinegar. Mix with a fork or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add cold water gradually: Slowly add the ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring gently after each addition. The dough should come together into a ball but not be sticky.
- Form the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and gently knead it just a couple of times to ensure it’s uniform.
- Chill the dough: Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step relaxes the gluten and firms up the dough, making it easier to roll.
- Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12-inch circle, about 1/8 inch thick. Transfer it carefully to your tart pan, pressing it gently into the edges.
- Trim and chill again: Trim any excess dough from the edges, then chill the crust in the refrigerator for another 15 minutes to prevent shrinking during baking.
- Blind bake (optional): For a crispier crust, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with baking weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, remove weights and paper, then bake for another 5-7 minutes until lightly golden.
- Fill and bake: Add your desired filling and bake according to your tart recipe instructions.
Tips & Variations
“If the dough feels too dry or crumbly, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it holds together. Conversely, if it’s sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour.”
For a nuttier flavor, try substituting 1/4 cup of the all-purpose flour with almond flour or oat flour. If you prefer a gluten-free option, experiment with gluten-free flour blends, but be mindful that texture and handling might vary.
Adding herbs like dried rosemary or thyme can elevate savory tarts, while a teaspoon of sugar or vanilla powder works well for sweet versions. Another great tip is to chill your rolling pin as well to keep the dough cool and prevent sticking.
For those interested in exploring more baking inspiration, you might enjoy my Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1/8 tart crust) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 120mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan tart dough pairs wonderfully with a wide range of fillings. For sweet tarts, try filling it with fresh berries, lemon curd, or a rich chocolate ganache.
For savory options, roasted vegetables, vegan cheese mixtures, or mushroom ragout work beautifully.
Serve warm or chilled, depending on your filling. A dollop of coconut whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can elevate the presentation of sweet tarts.
For an elegant dinner, serve a savory tart alongside a crisp green salad or a refreshing juice like the Green Goodness Juice Recipe.
Conclusion
Mastering this basic vegan tart dough recipe opens the door to countless delicious possibilities. Its simplicity and versatility make it a staple in any vegan baker’s kitchen, providing a reliable foundation for both sweet and savory tarts.
The use of plant-based ingredients doesn’t compromise on texture or flavor—instead, it creates a tender, flaky crust that everyone will love.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging in a homemade treat, this dough recipe will give you confidence and excellent results every time. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite flours, herbs, or spices to suit your taste.
For more fantastic recipes to complement your baking adventures, check out my Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe or the Half Runner Beans Recipe. Happy baking!
📖 Recipe Card: Basic Vegan Tart Dough
Description: A simple and flaky vegan tart dough perfect for sweet or savory tarts. Made with plant-based ingredients for an easy, cruelty-free crust.
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 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, solid
- 3 tablespoons ice water
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Instructions
- Combine all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt in a bowl.
- Cut in solid coconut oil until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Mix in maple syrup.
- Gradually add ice water, stirring until dough forms a ball.
- Wrap dough in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll out dough and fit into tart pan.
- Prick bottom with a fork before baking.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 18g
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