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Its time you discover the unique and delightful Soda Cracker Pie, a perfect harmony of sweet, salty and nutty flavors. This pie, with its unconventional use of soda crackers, offers a fascinating twist on traditional pie recipes. It’s an excellent choice for any party or gathering, promising to intrigue and satisfy your guest with its distinctive taste and texture.
This recipe turns the humble soda cracker into a star ingredient, resulting in a pie that’s not only delicious but also a conversation starter. It’s a reminder of how everyday ingredients can be transformed into extraordinary desserts.
This recipe is my Grandma Eleanors recipe. For as far back as my memory goes, my dad, her son, made this pie every Thanksgiving and Christmas and it was always a favorite. Especially for those who don’t like pie, because although this dessert is in a pie dish, it doesn’t have the regular texture or flavor of pies.
The Chemistry of Soda Cracker Pie
The magic of soda cracker lies in the unique combination and transformation of its ingredients. The egg whites, when whipped, incorporate air and become a fluffy meringue, providing the base’s light texture. The sugar stabilizes the meringue and adds sweetness, while vanilla extract enhances the flavor. The soda crackers, a surprising addition, contribute a subtle saltiness and texture, balancing the sweetness. Baking powder aids in the expansion and lightening of the pie as it bakes.
Why use soda cracker in a pie?
Soda crackers add a unique texture and a hint of saltiness, creating an intriguing balance of flavors in the pie.
Can you substitute other nuts for pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used as a substitute, though I have always made the pie with pecans and they offer a distinct, rich flavor. The handwritten recipe from my grandma just says 1 cup nuts, so really, any type of nuts can be experimented with.
How do you know when the meringue is stiff enough?
The meringue is ready when it holds firm peaks and doesn’t slide when the bowl is tilted. It will also get a little shine and not look as dull.
Is this pie suitable for making ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance. Add the whipped cream just before serving to maintain freshness.
What is in Soda Cracker Pie?
Egg Whites
Creates a light, airy meringue by trapping air bubbles as its whipped
Granulated Sugar
Sweetens the meringues and helps trap air in the egg whites
Vanilla Extract
Adds a classic flavor to the meringue
Pecans
Provide a rich, nutty flavor and crunchy texture
Soda Crackers
Offer a surprising salty note and unique texture
Baking Powder
Helps the pie rise and become fluffy
How to Store Soda Cracker Pie
Once the pie is topped with whipped cream, it can last in the fridge for 2-3 days. Just make sure to wrap it up tight so that it does not absorb other flavors from the fridge. If you have not topped it with whip cream, the pie can sit on the counter for 3-5 days. Freezing is not recommended because it may alter the texture.
Making Ahead
You can prepare the pie a day in advance, but do not top it with whipped cream until just before serving it to ensure the cream’s freshness and the pie’s optimal texture.
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Why Make Soda Cracker Pie?
Soda cracker pie is an excellent choice for potlucks, family gatherings, and holidays, especially when you want to surprise your guests with something unique and delightful.
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Soda Cracker Pie
Ingredients
- 3 egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 12 soda crackers
- 1 tsp baking powder
Instructions
- Start by greasing a pie dish and preheating your oven to 350 degrees
- In a standing mixer, whip the egg whites on high until stiff
- Turn the mixer down to low and slowly pour in the sugar and vanilla. Once the sugar and vanilla is fully added, turn the mixer on high again and whip for about 1 minute.
- In a food processor, chop up the soda crackers and pecans
- Add the baking powder to the cracker mixture
- Fold the cracker mixture into the egg white mixture
- Pour the pie mixture into the creased pie dish
- Bake the pie for 30 minutes
- Once done baking, remove from the oven. Some cracking on top while the pie cools is okay and expected.
- When the pie is fully cooled, add whip cream on top. I like to make homemade whip cream, but you could also do store bought.
Nutrition
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