Fruit Cracker Pie

3 egg whites
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract
1 cup granulated sugar
10 saltine crackers, crushed
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 to 2 cups fruit (optional)
1 cup heavy cream, whipped (optional)

Beat egg whites in large bowl until fluffy. Continue to beat while adding baking powder and almond extract. Add sugar gradually and beat until stiff. Fold in crackers and pecans. Spread in a 9-inch pie plate which has been sprayed with vegetable cooking spray. Shape with outside edge higher than center. Bake at 325 degrees F for 15 minutes. Allow to cool completely and chill. If desired, top with fruit and whipped cream when ready to serve.

This may be served with ice cream and shaved chocolate. Whipped cream may be mixed with 1 (16 ounce) can coconut or 2 cups sliced fresh sweetened strawberries for topping.