Are you craving a sweet treat that's both incredibly easy to make and surprisingly delightful? Then look no further! This Ritz cracker pie recipe is a hidden gem, a classic dessert that's quick to whip up yet always impresses. Forget complicated baking – this no-bake pie requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor. It's the perfect answer for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or simply satisfying a sudden sweet tooth. This recipe is a fantastic example of how delicious dishes can also be incredibly simple, making it an ideal addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meal options (depending on your ingredient choices!).
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups Ritz crackers, finely crushed (about 1 ½ sleeves)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
- Optional: Chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions:
Making the Crust:
- Crush the crackers: Place the Ritz crackers in a food processor or zip-top bag and pulse until finely crushed. Alternatively, you can crush them in a sturdy bowl using a rolling pin. Aim for a fine crumb consistency.
- Combine with butter: Add the melted butter to the crushed crackers and mix thoroughly until evenly moistened. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
- Press into the pan: Press the cracker mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to create an even crust. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Creating the Filling:
- Beat cream cheese and condensed milk: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, beating until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Fold in whipped cream: Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the whipped cream.
- Pour into crust: Pour the cream cheese mixture into the chilled Ritz cracker crust and spread evenly.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.
- Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture. This pie is perfect for a quick and easy dessert.
- This recipe is a great starting point for creating your own variations. Feel free to experiment with different toppings and fillings!
Tips for the Best Ritz Cracker Pie:
- Use a food processor: For the most consistent crumb texture, using a food processor to crush the crackers is highly recommended.
- Don't overmix the filling: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, resulting in a less stable filling.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the pie to chill completely ensures a firm, set filling. Patience is key here!
Variations:
- Chocolate Ritz Cracker Pie: Add ½ cup of melted semi-sweet chocolate chips to the cream cheese filling for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Peanut Butter Ritz Cracker Pie: Stir in ½ cup of creamy peanut butter to the cream cheese filling for a delightful peanut butter twist.
- Fruity Ritz Cracker Pie: Top the pie with your favorite fresh berries or a layer of fruit preserves.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 (This will vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving size.)
This recipe provides a delicious and surprisingly easy dessert option. It's a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers looking for quick dinner ideas or a simple yet impressive homemade cooking project.