Cracker crumb crust for pies

Cracker crumb crust for pies recipe videos

A cracker crumb crust is a simple, no-bake or lightly baked base for pies, typically made from crushed crackers (like graham crackers or saltines), melted butter, and a bit of sugar. It originated in North America as a convenient, home-style alternative to traditional pastry crusts, especially popular for cheesecakes, cream pies, and key lime pies.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This crust is high in carbohydrates and fat, primarily from the crackers and butter, with minimal protein. A typical serving (about 1/8 of a 9-inch crust) contains roughly 120-150 calories, offering small amounts of iron and B vitamins from the fortified flour in the crackers.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	140 kcal
Protein	2 g
Carbs	15 g
Fat	8 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	180 mg
Iron	1.5 mg
Calcium	25 mg
Potassium	45 mg
Magnesium	10 mg
Phosphorus	50 mg
Thiamin (B1)	0.15 mg
Niacin (B3)	1.2 mg
Folate	25 mcg

Per 1/8 of a 9-inch crust (about 30 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, it represents a pragmatic, 'make-do' approach in home baking, often used when a flaky pastry crust seems too fussy. Nutritionally, it's a calorie-dense base that can be easily adapted with whole-grain crackers or alternative binders like nut butters for a slightly healthier twist.