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To make the crust, whisk together the flour, buttermilk powder, salt, and baking powder.
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Add the shortening, working it in till it's thoroughly dispersed throughout the dry ingredients.
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Cut the butter into pats, and roughly work it into the mixture in the bowl; a few large pieces remaining are OK.
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Sprinkle the vinegar into the bowl, then 3 tablespoons of the ice water. Mix quickly and gently, just until everything is thoroughly moistened.
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Gather the dough into your hand, and squeeze it. If it holds together nicely, it's ready. If not, add a bit more ice water, a teaspoon or so at a time, until it's cohesive.
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Shape the dough into a rough disk, and transfer it to a well-floured work surface. Roll it into a rectangle about 8" x 12". Fold the rectangle like a letter, turn it 90°, and roll it into an 8" x 12" rectangle again. Give it another three-fold, then fold it in half to make a thick square. Wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes, or for up to 24 hours.
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Remove the dough from the fridge, and allow it to warm for about 15 minutes before rolling. While it's warming, preheat the oven to 375°F. Roll the dough into a 12" to 13" circle.
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Transfer the crust to a 9" pie plate. Trim the edges (patching any bare spots, if necessary), and make a tall crimp.
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Refrigerate the crust while you make the filling. Note: You may choose to make the filling during the dough's initial chilling period, instead of once it's shaped. Doesn't matter; either way is fine.
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Beat the eggs, sugar, and salt for about 2 minutes at high speed, until they're thick and light-colored.
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Stir in the flour, the cooled, melted butter; the espresso powder, and the flavor of your choice, then the chocolate chips/chunks and the diced pecans.
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Pour the batter into the pie crust, then scatter the pecan halves on top.
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Bake the pie for 30 minutes. Tent it lightly with aluminum foil, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, till the crust and top are both golden brown.
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Remove the pie from the oven, and allow it to cool for about 30 minutes before serving. Top with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.