The Ultimate Graham Cracker Crust – 3 Ingredients Recipe

Introduction

The ultimate graham cracker crust is a simple, versatile base perfect for pies and cheesecakes. With just three ingredients, you can create a crisp and flavorful crust that pairs beautifully with both baked and no-bake desserts.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheet graham crackers, crushed)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar, or a combination of both)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted or salted butter, melted (coconut oil melted can be used; add a dash of salt if using unsalted butter)

Instructions

1. Step 1: If you don’t have graham cracker crumbs, crush whole graham crackers until finely ground. You can do this in a food processor or place the crackers in a large zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and sugar together. Pour in the melted butter or coconut oil and stir with a fork until all the crumbs are evenly coated and damp.
3. Step 3: Transfer the crumb mixture into a pie plate or springform pan. Use the bottom of a clean measuring cup or your fingers to press the crumbs firmly into the bottom and up the sides, forming an even crust layer.
4. Step 4: For a firmer and crispier crust, bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes. Alternatively, for no-bake desserts, chill the crust in the refrigerator for 10 to 20 minutes to set.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the crumb mixture before pressing it into the pan.
• Try substituting half the graham crackers with digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a unique twist.
• Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a richer, caramel-like taste.
• To make a dairy-free version, use melted coconut oil instead of butter and add a pinch of salt for balance.

Storage

Store any leftover crust in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the crust is baked, it can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw before using. Reheat a baked crust briefly in the oven to restore crispness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use this crust for cheesecake?

Yes, this graham cracker crust works wonderfully for cheesecake, especially when baked to create a sturdy base that holds up well to creamy fillings.

What if I don’t have graham crackers?

If graham crackers aren’t available, try using digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed cookies that complement your dessert’s flavor.

The Ultimate Graham Cracker Crust – 3 Ingredients Recipe

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4.6 from 79 reviews

This Ultimate Graham Cracker Crust recipe uses just three simple ingredients to create a perfect base for your pies and cheesecakes. Made from graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter or coconut oil, it can be baked for a crisp texture or chilled for a no-bake option. Easy to prepare and versatile, this crust is a game-changer for dessert lovers.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes (optional baking)
• Total Time: 18-20 minutes
• Yield: Enough crust for one 9-inch pie or springform pan
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Crust Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (equivalent to 12 full sheet graham crackers, crushed into crumbs)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar, or a combination of both)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter or salted butter (melted) or coconut oil (melted) – add a dash of salt if using unsalted butter, if desired

Instructions

1. Prepare Graham Cracker Crumbs: If you don’t have graham cracker crumbs on hand, pulverize graham crackers yourself. Use a food processor to grind them finely or place the crackers in a large ziplock bag and crush them using a rolling pin until you achieve a fine crumb texture.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in the melted butter or coconut oil and mix thoroughly with a fork until all crumbs are evenly coated and wet.
3. Form the Crust: Transfer the crumb mixture into a pie plate or springform pan. Use the bottom of a clean measuring cup or your fingers to firmly press the mixture into an even layer on the bottom and up the sides of the pan, shaping the crust evenly.
4. Bake or Chill: For a crispier crust, bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, then allow it to cool before filling. Alternatively, if your recipe is no-bake, chill the crust in the refrigerator for 10-20 minutes to help it firm up before adding the filling.

Notes

• You can substitute brown sugar or use a combination of granulated and brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Using salted butter can add flavor, but adjust the salt accordingly if using unsalted butter or coconut oil.
• This crust works perfectly for cheesecakes, pies, and other no-bake or baked desserts.
• Pressing the crumbs firmly into the pan helps the crust hold together better during filling and serving.
• Store any leftover crust mixture before baking in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Keywords: graham cracker crust, pie crust, cheesecake crust, easy dessert base, no-bake crust, simple crust recipe