Graham Cracker Crust

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 to 10 minutes

Makes: 1 crust (9-inch)

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 4 ounces)
1/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup (2/3 stick) butter, room temperature

HEAT oven to 350°F. MIX graham cracker crumbs and sugar in medium bowl. ADD butter; mix until thoroughly blended.PRESS crumb mixture evenly and firmly against bottom and sides of 9-inch pie plate.

BAKE in 350°F oven until center is firm to the touch and edge is lightly browned, 8 to 10 minutes. COOL completely on wire rack.

Crumb crusts are often used with cream pies, such as French Silk Pie, cheesecake pies, such as Bananas Foster Cheese Pie, and chiffon pies.

Insider Info
Graham cracker crumbs: If using whole graham crackers, process in blender or food processor, or place in plastic bag, seal bag and crush with rolling pin or flat side of meat pounder.

Graham Cracker Nut Crumb Crust Variation: Substitute 1/2 cup (about 2 ounces) ground almonds, pecans or walnuts for 1/2 cup of the graham cracker crumbs.

Chocolate Crumb Crust Variation: Substitute 1 1/2 cups fine chocolate wafer crumbs for graham cracker crumbs; omit sugar.

Recipe and photograph courtesy of the American Egg Board.