Why Saltines Are the Perfect Pie Crust Alternative This Summer

Many of your favorite dessert recipes, like bar cookies and cream pies, often rely on a graham cracker crust. The buttery crumble of graham crackers complements any sweet topping or filling perfectly. But if you're looking for something new, why not try using saltines?

Saltines for Pie Crust? Here's Why You Should Try It

Wondering if saltines can really replace graham crackers in a pie crust? Or still unsure about this cracker swap? We get it—saltines have always been your go-to for soups and breaded dishes. But trust us, this humble soda cracker can work wonders as a pie crust too. Let us explain why.

Why Saltines Are the Better Choice for Your Pie Crust

Maybe we should thank our ancestors for their clever use of crackers. During the Great Depression, crackers were a staple in pie crusts, as limited rations made it hard to find typical pie ingredients. Fast forward to the 1950s, and convenience became the main reason soda crackers found their way into pie crusts, as packaged foods became a trend. No matter the history, one thing is clear—soda crackers are a fantastic pie crust option, and here's why:

1. Convenience

   Most likely, you already have crackers in your pantry. Whether they're for soup or peanut butter, they're a go-to snack. Since you’ve got them on hand, you're already one step closer to making a delicious pie crust.

2. Flavor Flexibility

   While graham crackers are fixed in their flavor, saltines offer you endless possibilities. Their neutral taste lets you experiment, whether you're adding citrus zest or brown butter. Plus, you can adjust the sweetness and saltiness to your liking, offering more control and creativity in your crust.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

   With the price of graham crackers rising, saltines are an affordable alternative. While prices have increased on both, saltines are still the budget-friendly option, making this swap a great choice for your wallet.

How to Make a Saltine Pie Crust

We adapted this classic Soda Cracker Pie recipe to create our crust, with just a few small tweaks. Here are the steps:

Bake the crust for 12 to 15 minutes, or until it becomes puffed and golden brown.

Top with fresh fruit and a dollop of whipped cream.

We also have a Saltine Cracker Pie Crust recipe that pairs perfectly with your next Key Lime Pie or No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie. Your sweet and salty desserts will never be the same again!