Name: Graham Cracker Cream Pie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ⅓ cup granulated sugar; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 ⅔ cups whole milk; 4 large egg yolks; 1 cup granulated sugar; 4 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 5 large egg whites, at room temperature; ⅓ cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon cream of tartar

This Graham Cracker Cream Pie is a classic and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and creamy custard filling, and a fluffy meringue topping, this pie is a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Flavors: This pie features the familiar and comforting flavors of graham crackers, vanilla custard, and meringue, making it a nostalgic and satisfying dessert.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this pie is surprisingly easy to prepare, even for beginner bakers.
Impressive Presentation: The fluffy meringue topping and the golden brown crust make this pie a visually appealing and elegant dessert.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Graham Cracker Cream Pie:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

Graham cracker crumbs: Forms the base of the crust.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust.
Unsalted butter: Melted, helps bind the crust and adds richness.

For the Custard Filling:

Whole milk: Creates a creamy base for the custard.
Egg yolks: Enrich the custard and add a velvety texture.
Sugar: Adds sweetness.
Cornstarch: Thickens the custard.
Vanilla extract: Adds a touch of warmth and flavor.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor.

For the Meringue Topping:

Egg whites: Room temperature, whipped to create a fluffy meringue.
Sugar: Adds sweetness and stability to the meringue.
Cream of tartar: Stabilizes the egg whites and helps create stiff peaks.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Graham Cracker Cream Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let the crust cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Custard Filling

While the crust is cooling, prepare the custard filling. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until melted and combined. Pour the custard filling into the cooled graham cracker crust.

Step 3: Make the Meringue Topping

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment (or using a hand mixer), beat the egg whites on high speed until they form soft peaks. Add the cream of tartar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, while beating until the meringue is glossy and holds stiff peaks.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Spread the meringue evenly over the custard filling in the pie crust. If desired, use a spatula to create decorative peaks in the meringue. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely to allow the custard and meringue to set. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use room temperature egg whites: Room temperature egg whites will whip up better and create a more stable meringue.
Don’t overbake the crust: Overbaking the crust will make it hard and dry. Bake just until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Whisk the custard constantly: Whisking the custard constantly prevents it from scorching or becoming lumpy.
Chill thoroughly: Chilling the pie completely allows the custard and meringue to set properly.

How to Serve Graham Cracker Cream Pie

Dessert: This Graham Cracker Cream Pie is a delightful dessert for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations.
Party Treat: It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or afternoon tea.
Summertime Snack: Enjoy a slice as a refreshing and satisfying snack on a hot day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the meringue may start to weep after a day or two.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust?

While a graham cracker crust is traditional for this pie, you can experiment with other types of crusts, such as a shortbread crust or a chocolate cookie crust.

Can I use a different flavor of extract?

Yes, you can use other extracts, such as almond extract or coconut extract, to flavor the custard filling.

Can I make this pie without the meringue topping?

Yes, you can omit the meringue topping if you prefer. The pie will still be delicious with just the custard filling and the graham cracker crust.

How can I make this pie vegan?

You can use vegan butter and a vegan egg substitute, such as aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas), for the crust and meringue. For the custard filling, you can use a vegan custard made with cornstarch, plant-based milk, and a sweetener.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Graham Cracker Cream Pie that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Lisa

Hi, I’m Lisa Denton! From quick dinners to family favorites, I’m here to help you bring joy to the table, one recipe at a time.

Graham Cracker Cream Pie Recipe