Graham Cracker (or Vanilla Wafer) Pie Crust Recipe 🍰
A delightful base for your favorite pies
Welcome to Love With Recipes! Today, we are thrilled to share a delightful and versatile pie crust recipe that you can use as the foundation for any of your favorite pies. Whether you prefer the classic taste of graham crackers or the delicate sweetness of vanilla wafers, this crust will hold your fillings beautifully and enhance the overall flavor of your desserts. This recipe originally featured in the first issue of Cooking Light and has been cherished for its brilliance and simplicity ever since. The addition of an egg white is a game changer, ensuring that the crust holds together perfectly while offering a lower sugar and fat content, which is excellent for those of us who are mindful of our dietary needs. So, let’s dive into the details of this scrumptious pie crust recipe!
Ingredients 🌟
- 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs (or vanilla wafer crumbs)
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 egg white
Nutritional Information (per serving) 🌿
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 334.6 |
| Fat | 16.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 22.9 mg |
| Sodium | 261.1 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 43.3 g |
| Fiber | 1.1 g |
| Sugar | 12 g |
| Protein | 3.4 g |
Serving Size and Yield 🍽️
- Servings: 8
- Yield: 1 pie crust
Preparation and Cooking Times ⏱️
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 mins | 8-10 mins | 18 mins |
Instructions 📋
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. If you’re using graham crackers or vanilla wafers, crush them into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and crushing them with a rolling pin. -
-
Mix the Crust:
In a food processor, combine the crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Pulse until the mixture is well blended and looks like wet sand. This ensures that the crumbs are evenly coated with butter, which helps the crust hold together better. -
Add the Egg White:
Add the egg white to the crumb mixture. Pulse a few more times until the egg white is thoroughly incorporated and the mixture is evenly moistened. The egg white acts as a binder, providing structure and stability to the crust. -
Press into Pie Plate:
Transfer the crumb mixture to a 9-inch pie plate. Using your fingers or the back of a spoon, press the mixture firmly and evenly onto the bottom and up the sides of the pie plate. Make sure the crust is packed tightly to avoid any crumbling when sliced. -
Bake the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until it is lightly golden and set. Baking the crust helps to develop its flavor and provides a sturdy base for your pie fillings. -
Cool Completely:
Once baked, remove the crust from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling the crust ensures it firms up and is ready to hold your chosen filling without becoming soggy.
Tips and Variations 🍋
- Sweet Variations: For a sweeter twist, you can add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract to the crumb mixture before baking.
- Savory Option: For a savory crust, omit the sugar and add a pinch of salt. This variation pairs wonderfully with quiche or savory tarts.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham crackers or vanilla wafers to make this crust suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the crumbs for a chocolatey version of this crust, perfect for chocolate or mocha pies.
Enjoy Your Creation! 🍰
Now that your delicious pie crust is ready and cooled, it’s time to fill it with your favorite pie filling. Whether you opt for a classic lemon meringue, a luscious chocolate cream, or a refreshing fruit tart, this versatile crust will complement your creation beautifully. Enjoy the process of making and savoring this delightful crust, and share your creations with friends and family for a truly delightful dessert experience.
At Love With Recipes, we believe that every dish is an opportunity to create joy and make memories. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do and that it becomes a staple in your kitchen. Happy baking!
