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Create a buttery Mini Graham Cracker Crust with just two ingredients! Perfect for small batch desserts like pies and cheesecakes. This crust is easy, versatile, and delicious.

a spoonful of lemon pie next to the larger pie on a napkin with a lemon on it.

Searching for creative ways to enjoy your mini graham cracker pie crust? Delight in these small pie recipes: zesty Lemon Meringue Pie, tangy Key Lime Pie, creamy Peanut Butter Pie, and warmly spiced Sweet Potato Pie. Each one is a perfect match for your mini crust!

Why You’ll Love This Graham Cracker Crust Recipe

  • Simplicity: All you need are two ingredients and a short amount of time to make this crust.
  • Versatility: This crust pairs beautifully with sweet and tart fillings alike—think cheesecakes, key lime pies, or pumpkin pies.
  • Small Batch Friendly: Ideal for a small pie, it’s perfect for intimate dinners or for when you want a treat all to yourself.

Ingredients

graham crackers and a tablespoon of butter on a wooden cutting board.

If you have any ingredients leftover from this mini graham cracker pie crust recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder.

  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: These are the heart of the crust, offering that classic, slightly nutty sweetness. They’re readily available in U.S. grocery stores, usually in the cookie or baking aisle. For those in the UK, digestive biscuits make a great alternative. Other options include ginger snaps or vanilla wafers if you’re looking to switch things up. Got extra graham crackers? Use them in Peanut Butter Bars or S’mores Dip.
  • Butter: Use melted butter to help bind the crumbs together and provide a rich flavor to the crust. It’s the key to achieving that cohesive, delectable base.
  • Optional: Granulated Sugar: While sugar is commonly added to graham cracker crusts, it’s not always necessary. Depending on the sweetness of your pie filling, you may opt to skip it. For example, if you’re making a Key Lime Pie or a Peanut Butter Pie, the filling is usually sweet enough on its own, so sugar in the crust might be overkill. On the other hand, recipes like Sweet Potato Pie do benefit from a bit of sugar in the crust.

Recipe Variations

This graham cracker crust is like a blank canvas, waiting for your artistic culinary touch.

  • Chocolate Pie Crust: Substitute regular graham crackers with chocolate-flavored ones.
  • Nutty Crust: Substitute a portion of the graham cracker crumbs with finely ground almonds or walnuts for a nutty undertone.
  • Coconut-Infused: Incorporate shredded coconut into the crumb mixture for a tropical twist, particularly good for fruit tarts like key lime or mango pie.
  • Vegan Pie Crust: Use vegan butter and vegan graham crackers to keep it plant-based.

Note: This recipe is perfect when a pie is made in a 10-ounce ramekin. Doubling the ingredient amounts makes it suitable for a 5×5-inch baking dish.

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How To Make A Graham Cracker Crust

These step-by-step photos and instructions help you visualize how to make a small graham cracker crust. See the recipe box below for ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions.

Step 1: Prepare the Crumbs

Place your graham crackers in a zip-top bag, seal it, and then use a rolling pin to crush the crackers into fine crumbs. Alternatively, you can use a food processor or blender to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

2 photos showing how to crush graham crackers and add butter to make a crust.

Step 2: Combine with Melted Butter

Transfer the finely crushed graham cracker crumbs to a bowl. Add the melted butter and mix until well combined.

2 photos showing how to make a cookie crust and pouring the crumbs into a dessert dish.

Step 3: Set the Crust

Pour the butter and crumb mixture into your choice of dessert dish or a 10-ounce ramekin. Use the back of a spoon to firmly press down the mixture, creating an even crust.

Step 4: To Bake or Not to Bake

  • For No-Bake Desserts: If your recipe doesn’t require baking, you’re all set! Simply follow the rest of your recipe’s instructions.
  • For Baked Desserts: If your pie or dessert needs baking, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the crust for approximately 10 minutes, or as directed by your specific recipe.

Follow these simple steps to effortlessly make an individual graham cracker crust that’s perfect for small batch desserts. Whether you’re baking or going no-bake, this crust offers a reliable and delicious base.

a small round pumpkin pie topped with whipped cream on a white lace plate on top of a orange and gold tablecloth.
Pumpkin Pie For One

Expert Tips

  • Size Matters: This recipe is designed for a 10-ounce ramekin, which typically measures 4 inches in diameter and 2 inches in height. For a larger crust, simply double the ingredient quantities. This will work well for a 5×5-inch or a 4×6-inch baking dish, both of which have a similar base area.
  • Smooth and Even: To get a well-structured crust, use the back of a spoon to press down the crumb mixture into your dish. Make sure to smooth out any bumps so the crust holds together.
  • To Bake or Not: While some crusts are fine without baking, a quick stint in the oven (especially for baked pies) will keep your crust from getting soggy. So, if your recipe involves baking, it’s worth pre-baking the crust.
  • Choose Real Butter: Skip the margarine and go for real, preferably salted, butter. The flavor payoff is considerable and gives your crust that rich, buttery taste.
  • Texture Troubleshooting: If your crust mixture feels too dry or crumbly, simply add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of melted butter and mix.
  • Flavor Boost: Looking to elevate your crust? Add a pinch of ground cinnamon for pumpkin pies. For fruit-based pies, a bit of lemon or orange zest can add a delightful twist.

Serving Suggestions

A graham cracker crust is more than just a base for pies and cheesecakes; its versatility knows no bounds.

  • Fruit Tarts: Fill with vanilla pudding and top with seasonal fruits.
  • Ice Cream Pie: Create a chilled treat by filling the crust with vanilla ice cream.
  • Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt and fruits for a healthier option.
A small round lemon meringue pie with a round section removed next to sliced lemons on a silver tray.
Lemon Meringue Pie For One

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of cookies can I use if I don’t have graham crackers?

If graham crackers aren’t available in your area, digestive biscuits are a good alternative. Shortbread, vanilla wafers, or ginger snaps can also be used as substitutes.

Can I prepare a graham cracker crust ahead?

Absolutely. You can make this crust 1 to 2 days in advance. For baked crusts, cover and store at room temperature. If you’re making a no-bake dessert, it’s best to cover the crust and keep it in the fridge.

What’s the ideal baking dish to use with this graham cracker crust recipe?

This mini graham cracker crust recipe is tailored for a 10-ounce ramekin with dimensions of 4 inches in diameter and 2 inches in height.

For a larger crust, you can double the recipe to fit a 5×5-inch baking dish, which has a 25-square-inch base. This doubled amount will also suit a 4×6-inch dish, as its base is similarly 24 square inches.

With this information, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit the dish size you have on hand, ensuring your crust turns out perfect every time.

For more information on the cooking and baking dishes I use in our “recipes for one”, please visit our FAQ page.
For examples of the dishes used at One Dish Kitchen, please visit our Store page.

Can I make a gluten-free graham cracker pie crust?

Make a gluten-free crust by using gluten-free cookies.

Best Desserts To Make With A Mini Graham Cracker Crust

This versatile crust is the perfect base for a range of mini pies and desserts. Whether you’re using a 5×5-inch dish or a standard ramekin, here are some delectable options to consider:

With these dessert options, you’ll find endless ways to make the most out of your homemade mini graham cracker crust.

A cheesecake in a small dessert dish topped with raspberries and fresh mint.
No-Bake Cheesecake For One

Alternative Uses For Graham Crackers In Single Serving And Small Batch Recipes

Graham crackers aren’t just for pie crusts! Expand your culinary repertoire by incorporating them into these single serving or small batch treats:

  • Mini S’mores Dip – Create a cozy, single serve s’mores experience without the campfire.
  • Ice Box Cake – Layer graham crackers with your choice of cream and toppings for a no-bake delight perfect for small gatherings.
  • Key Lime Pie Ice Cream – Add crumbled graham crackers to homemade key lime ice cream for a frozen twist on a classic pie. The crumbs add texture and a pie-crust feel to each bite.
  • Peanut Butter Bars – Make small batch peanut butter bars with graham cracker crumbs, peanut butter, and a chocolate topping. It’s a no-bake treat that’s easy and delicious.
a creamy pie with a graham cracker crust on a floral plate topped with lemon slices
Lemon Cheesecake Mousse For One

Ideal Baking Dishes For Single Serving Pies

For perfect single serving pies, consider using one of these three options:

  • 5-Inch Baking Dish: A compact size that’s ideal for thicker pies or more substantial servings.
  • 10-Ounce Ramekin: Holds the perfect amount for a single serving, and its shape makes it versatile for both baked and no-bake pies.
  • Mini Pie Pan: Specifically designed for individual pies, offering a traditional pie shape in a smaller scale.

These baking dish options ensure you get the perfect size and shape for your single-serving culinary creations.

If you would like additional information on the dishes I use in our “recipes for one”, please visit our FAQ page.

For examples of the dishes we use, please visit our Store page.

If you’ve tried this graham cracker pie crust or any recipe on One Dish Kitchen please let me know how you liked it by rating the recipe and telling me about it in the comment section below.

Also, if you take a picture please tag us on Instagram (@onedishkitchen) we’d love to see it!


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Because you’re worth it

Mini Graham Cracker Crust

5 from 2 votes
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Servings: 1 serving
This buttery graham cracker crust recipe is perfect to use when making a single serving pie. Great for mini baked pies, no-bake pies, and cheesecakes. Easy 2 ingredient recipe!

Ingredients 
 

  • ¼ cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon salted butter
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Instructions 

  • Pour crumbs into a medium sized bowl. Stir in the melted butter.
  • Butter the bottom and sides of an 8 or a 10-ounce ramekin and pour the crumbs into the dish. Using your fingers or the back of a spoon, press the crumbs gently so they form a crust on the bottom.
  • If the crust needs to be pre-baked, bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. If this crust is for a no-bake pie recipe, use as instructed in your recipe.

Notes

Expert Tips
  • Size Matters: This recipe is designed for a 10-ounce ramekin, which typically measures 4 inches in diameter and 2 inches in height. For a larger crust, simply double the ingredient quantities. This will work well for a 5×5-inch or a 4×6-inch baking dish, both of which have a similar base area.
  • Smooth and Even: To get a well-structured crust, use the back of a spoon to press down the crumb mixture into your dish. Make sure to smooth out any bumps so the crust holds together.
  • To Bake or Not: While some crusts are fine without baking, a quick stint in the oven (especially for baked pies) will keep your crust from getting soggy. So, if your recipe involves baking, it’s worth pre-baking the crust.
  • Choose Real Butter: Skip the margarine and go for real, preferably salted, butter. The flavor payoff is considerable and gives your crust that rich, buttery taste.
  • Texture Troubleshooting: If your crust mixture feels too dry or crumbly, simply add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of melted butter and mix.
  • Flavor Boost: Looking to elevate your crust? Add a pinch of ground cinnamon for pumpkin pies. For fruit-based pies, a bit of lemon or orange zest can add a delightful twist.
Any of these mini pie recipes would be perfect to use with a homemade graham cracker crust.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving, Calories: 189kcal, Carbohydrates: 16g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 13g, Saturated Fat: 8g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 30mg, Sodium: 238mg, Potassium: 41mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 5g, Vitamin A: 350IU, Calcium: 20mg, Iron: 1mg

The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

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5 from 2 votes (2 ratings without comment)

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1 Comment

  1. Chick Coletta says:

    These recipes are by far the best collection Iโ€™ve seen an have tried some. All excellent