Vanilla Wafer Crumb Crust
Vanilla Wafer Crumb Crust Recipe - USA
Introduction
Vanilla Wafer Crumb Crust is a delicious and easy-to-make crust that adds a sweet and crunchy element to pies and cheesecakes. This recipe is perfect for those who prefer a simple and classic crust option.
History
The Vanilla Wafer Crumb Crust has been a popular choice for pie crusts for many years. It is a convenient and tasty alternative to traditional pastry crusts, and adds a unique flavor to desserts.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp melted margarine
- 30 vanilla wafers (1.75 inches in diameter)
- 0.25 tsp pure vanilla extract
How to prepare
- Prepare a 9" pie plate by greasing the inside, bottom, and sides with 1 tsp of margarine; set aside.
- Crush 1.5 cups of vanilla wafers into very fine crumbs.
- Place the crumbs in a large bowl; combine with 1 tsp of vanilla extract and melted margarine, drizzling it all over the crumbs.
- Mix thoroughly with a blending fork to ensure everything is well blended.
- Remove about 2 tbsp of the crumb mixture and set it aside to use as a garnish if desired.
- Using the back of a large spoon, evenly press the remaining crumbs all over the bottom and sides of the prepared pie pan.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours or longer before filling.
Variations
- For a chocolate twist, substitute chocolate wafer cookies for the vanilla wafers.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumb mixture for a warm and spicy flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to crush the vanilla wafers into very fine crumbs to ensure a smooth and even crust.
- Chilling the crust in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before filling will help it set and hold its shape.
- Use a blending fork to mix the crumbs with the melted margarine and vanilla extract for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
This crust is perfect for pies with creamy fillings such as banana cream pie or key lime pie. It also pairs well with fruity fillings like strawberry or peach.
Cooking Techniques
Use a food processor to quickly and easily crush the vanilla wafers into fine crumbs.
Ingredient Substitutions
Butter can be used in place of margarine for a richer flavor.
- Almond extract can be used instead of vanilla extract for a nutty flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
The crust can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before filling.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the finished pie with whipped cream and a sprinkle of reserved crumb mixture for a decorative touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve a slice of pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert pairing.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
120 per serving
Carbohydrates
15g per serving
Fats
7g per serving
Proteins
1g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This crust does not contain significant amounts of vitamins or minerals.
Alergens
Contains wheat and soy
Summary
This Vanilla Wafer Crumb Crust is a moderate calorie option with a good balance of carbohydrates and fats.
Summary
Vanilla Wafer Crumb Crust is a simple and delicious option for pie crusts that adds a sweet and crunchy element to your favorite desserts. With just a few ingredients and easy preparation, this crust is sure to become a go-to recipe for all your pie-making needs.
How did I get this recipe?
I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered this recipe for Vanilla Wafer Crumb Crust. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town in the countryside. I was always drawn to the kitchen, where my mother and grandmother would spend hours cooking up delicious meals and treats. I would sit at the kitchen table, watching them work their magic and soaking in every detail of their culinary skills.
One day, my grandmother had a friend over for tea. As they chatted and laughed, I noticed my grandmother pulling out a tattered old recipe book from the pantry. Curious, I inched closer to get a glimpse of what she was looking at. I saw that the page was marked with a faded yellow sticky note that read "Vanilla Wafer Crumb Crust". Intrigued, I asked my grandmother about the recipe, and she smiled warmly before launching into a story about how she had learned to make it.
She told me that many years ago, when she was a young bride just starting out in the kitchen, she had a neighbor who was known for her exquisite baking skills. This neighbor took my grandmother under her wing and taught her the art of making delicious desserts. One day, she showed my grandmother how to make a simple yet versatile crumb crust using vanilla wafers. My grandmother was fascinated by the idea of using cookies to create a crust, and she quickly mastered the technique.
As my grandmother shared the story with me, I could see the twinkle in her eyes as she reminisced about her time spent in that neighbor's kitchen. She told me that she had made the recipe many times over the years, tweaking it here and there to suit her own tastes and preferences. The end result was a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, the ideal base for a variety of pies and tarts.
After hearing my grandmother's story, I was eager to try my hand at making the Vanilla Wafer Crumb Crust myself. She handed me the recipe book and pointed to the page, encouraging me to give it a go. I eagerly gathered the ingredients and set to work, carefully crushing the vanilla wafers into fine crumbs and mixing them with melted butter and sugar. The aroma that filled the kitchen as the crust baked in the oven was heavenly, and I couldn't wait to see the finished product.
When the crust was ready, I let it cool before filling it with a creamy lemon filling. The combination of the sweet, crunchy crust and tangy lemon filling was a match made in heaven. My family raved about the dessert, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had successfully recreated my grandmother's beloved recipe.
From that day on, the Vanilla Wafer Crumb Crust became a staple in our family's dessert repertoire. My grandmother would make it for special occasions, and I would often whip it up just for the joy of creating something delicious. Every time I made it, I thought of my grandmother and the memories we shared in the kitchen.
Now, as I pass on the recipe to the next generation, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the traditions and recipes that have been handed down through the years. The Vanilla Wafer Crumb Crust may seem like a simple dessert, but to me, it represents so much more – a connection to my past, a link to my family, and a reminder of the love and joy that can be found in the kitchen. I will always cherish this recipe and the memories attached to it, knowing that it will continue to bring happiness and delight to those who enjoy it for years to come.
Categories
| American Recipes | Pie Crust Recipes | Vanilla Wafer Recipes |