Peanut Pie with Cracker Crust

Every time I think of Peanut Pie with Cracker Crust, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen. The rich aroma of roasted peanuts filled the air, mingling with the sweet scent of freshly baked pie. This dessert always made an appearance at family gatherings, and it was a highlight of any celebration. The unique combination of flavors and textures made it an instant favorite, and honestly, who can resist a pie that has a crust made from crushed crackers? The first slice was always the most exciting, revealing the creamy filling and inviting toppings. I remember eagerly waiting for it to cool, counting the minutes until I could dig in. Making this pie is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating memories and sharing love through food. So, let’s dive into the world of Peanut Pie with Cracker Crust and discover the joy it brings!

Key Ingredients for Peanut Pie with Cracker Crust

When it comes to the ingredients for Peanut Pie with Cracker Crust, simplicity reigns supreme. Each component plays a vital role, contributing to the overall flavor and texture of the pie. The combination of Ritz crackers, peanuts, and egg whites creates a delicious harmony that is hard to resist.

• 20 Ritz Crackers: Crushed fine, they form the base of the pie crust. Their salty sweetness adds a unique flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
• ½ cup of granulated white sugar: This is essential for sweetening the filling and balancing the flavors.
• ¾ cup chopped peanuts: Dry roasted peanuts bring a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, elevating the pie’s overall taste.
• 3 egg whites: Beaten to stiff peaks, they provide structure and lightness to the filling.
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar: This stabilizes the egg whites, ensuring they maintain their fluffy texture.
• ½ cup granulated white sugar: This is added to the egg whites for sweetness and stability.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: It adds a warm, inviting flavor that complements the peanuts beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon almond extract: Just a hint of almond enhances the overall flavor of the pie.
• 2 tablespoons granulated white sugar: For sweetening the whipped cream topping.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: A touch for the whipped cream, adding richness.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped to perfection, it provides a luxurious topping for the pie.
• ½ ounce bittersweet chocolate: Shaved or grated for garnish, it adds a decadent finishing touch.

The Method for Peanut Pie with Cracker Crust

Making Peanut Pie with Cracker Crust is a satisfying journey that leads to a delicious reward. Let’s walk through the steps together, ensuring that every detail is just right.

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This initial step is crucial as it sets the stage for a perfectly baked pie.

2. Take the Ritz crackers and crush them into fine crumbs. A food processor works well for this, but you can also place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin. The goal is to create a powder-like consistency. Once crushed, transfer them to a medium-sized bowl.

3. Add the ½ cup of granulated white sugar and ¾ cup of chopped peanuts to the bowl with the cracker crumbs. Mix everything together thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined. This mixture will serve as your crust.

4. In a separate medium-sized bowl, beat the 3 egg whites until they form stiff peaks. You can use a hand mixer, a stand mixer, or even a whisk if you’re feeling strong. Beating the egg whites until they hold their shape is essential for achieving a light texture.

5. Add ¼ teaspoon of cream of tartar and the remaining ½ cup of granulated white sugar to the beaten egg whites. Gently fold in the sugar and the cream of tartar using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the egg whites.

6. Next, fold the cracker mixture gently into the egg white mixture. You want to combine them without losing the airiness of the egg whites. This folding technique ensures your filling remains light and fluffy.

7. Pour the combined mixture into a 9-inch pie pan, spreading it evenly. This pie will rise as it bakes, so don’t worry if it looks a bit full.

8. Bake the pie in the center of the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t brown too much. When it’s done, the top should be slightly puffed and golden.

9. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely. For the best results, refrigerate it for 3 to 4 hours. This allows the filling to set and enhances the flavors.

10. When you’re ready to serve, make the topping. In a medium-sized metal bowl, place a metal whisk and put both in the freezer for about 10 minutes to chill. This step is essential for achieving the perfect whipped cream.

11. Once chilled, take the bowl and whisk out of the freezer. Add 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, 2 tablespoons of granulated white sugar, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract into the bowl. Whip vigorously until stiff peaks form. It may take a few minutes, but don’t give up; the key is having everything cold!

12. Finally, scoop the whipped cream onto the pie, covering the center two-thirds while leaving the edges visible. This presentation adds a lovely touch. To garnish, use a vegetable peeler to create chocolate shavings from the ½ ounce of bittersweet chocolate and sprinkle them over the whipped cream.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to make Peanut Pie with Cracker Crust your own! Here are some tips to customize and enhance your pie:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pie before adding the whipped cream topping. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and it will last for up to a month.
• Pairing: This pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fresh fruit. Both options complement the pie’s rich flavors.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or pecans for different textures and flavors. Each nut brings a unique twist!
• Chocolate Twist: For a more chocolatey dessert, consider adding cocoa powder to the filling or using chocolate ganache instead of whipped cream.
• Whipped Topping Options: If you prefer, you can substitute the homemade whipped cream with store-bought whipped topping for convenience.

Great Combinations for Peanut Pie with Cracker Crust

When it comes to serving Peanut Pie with Cracker Crust, there are numerous delicious options to enhance the experience. Here’s how you can enjoy this delightful dessert:

• Ice Cream: Serve slices of pie topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream complements the pie’s nutty flavor beautifully.
• Fresh Berries: Add a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity contrast. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the pie.
• Holiday Celebrations: This pie is perfect for special occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas, serving as a sweet finale to festive meals.
• Picnics and BBQs: Bring the pie along to summer gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser and can be served chilled, making it ideal for warm weather.
• Storage Tips: Keep it in the refrigerator, covered, and consume within three days for the best texture and flavor.
• Seasonal Pairings: In autumn, pair the pie with spiced cider for a cozy fall dessert. In the summer, consider serving it with iced tea.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Peanut Pie with Cracker Crust is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that captures the heart of comfort food. Each slice is a warm reminder of family gatherings and sweet memories shared over a delicious dessert. I encourage you to try making this pie; it’s not just a recipe but an experience that brings joy to the table. Gather your loved ones, whip up this pie, and enjoy every bite together!

Peanut Pie with Cracker Crust

The ultimate comfort food, Peanut Pie with Cracker Crust combines a rich, creamy filling with a crunchy, salty crust. This easy, no-fuss dessert is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to quiet nights in. Treat yourself to a slice tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Whisk
• Oven
• Peeler
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 20 pieces Ritz Crackers Crushed fine
• ½ cup granulated white sugar
• ¾ cup chopped peanuts Dry Roasted with lower salt works best
• 3 pieces egg whites
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
• ½ cup granulated white sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 2 tablespoons granulated white sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ ounce bittersweet chocolate

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This initial step is crucial as it sets the stage for a perfectly baked pie.
• Take the Ritz crackers and crush them into fine crumbs. A food processor works well for this, but you can also place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin. The goal is to create a powder-like consistency. Once crushed, transfer them to a medium-sized bowl.
• Add the ½ cup of granulated white sugar and ¾ cup of chopped peanuts to the bowl with the cracker crumbs. Mix everything together thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined. This mixture will serve as your crust.
• In a separate medium-sized bowl, beat the 3 egg whites until they form stiff peaks. You can use a hand mixer, a stand mixer, or even a whisk if you’re feeling strong. Beating the egg whites until they hold their shape is essential for achieving a light texture.
• Add ¼ teaspoon of cream of tartar and the remaining ½ cup of granulated white sugar to the beaten egg whites. Gently fold in the sugar and the cream of tartar using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the egg whites.
• Next, fold the cracker mixture gently into the egg white mixture. You want to combine them without losing the airiness of the egg whites. This folding technique ensures your filling remains light and fluffy.
• Pour the combined mixture into a 9-inch pie pan, spreading it evenly. This pie will rise as it bakes, so don’t worry if it looks a bit full.
• Bake the pie in the center of the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t brown too much. When it’s done, the top should be slightly puffed and golden.
• Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely. For the best results, refrigerate it for 3 to 4 hours. This allows the filling to set and enhances the flavors.
• When you’re ready to serve, make the topping. In a medium-sized metal bowl, place a metal whisk and put both in the freezer for about 10 minutes to chill. This step is essential for achieving the perfect whipped cream.
• Once chilled, take the bowl and whisk out of the freezer. Add 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, 2 tablespoons of granulated white sugar, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract into the bowl. Whip vigorously until stiff peaks form. It may take a few minutes, but don’t give up; the key is having everything cold!
• Finally, scoop the whipped cream onto the pie, covering the center two-thirds while leaving the edges visible. This presentation adds a lovely touch. To garnish, use a vegetable peeler to create chocolate shavings from the ½ ounce of bittersweet chocolate and sprinkle them over the whipped cream.

Notes

It is important to use fresh new nuts or they won’t rise to the top like they should.

Crush the crackers VERY well. Make them like powder.

It is important to use the Ritz type crackers and not some other type of cracker.

20 Ritz crackers is just about one sleeve of crackers.

You can use either fresh whipped cream OR cool whip. It is up to you. The whipped cream tastes better though.

You are going to wonder how this makes a crust since the crackers mixed in with the pie filling, but trust me, it will work itself out in the oven.

Don’t place the whipped cream onto the pie until ready to serve.

If you don’t have bittersweet chocolate, dark chocolate is fine to use.

Keyword Cracker Crust, Dessert Recipes, Easy Pie Recipes, Peanut Pie

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!