Graham Cracker Crust

Ingredients:

• 1/3 c. margarine or butter
• 1/4 c. sugar
• 1 1/4 c. finely crushed graham crackers (about 18 crackers)

note: check the baking aisle for boxes of graham cracker crumbs… sometimes they are cheaper. And much easier to use

Directions:

Melt margarine or butter. Stir in sugar. Add crushed graham crackers or crumbs, toss to mix well. Spread mixture evenly into a 9-inch pie plate (though if your recipe calls for 10-inch, this recipe should provide enough extra to cover it). Press onto bottom and sides to form a firm, even crust. Chill about 1 hour or until firm OR bake in a 375 degree oven for 4 to 5 minutes or until edge is lightly browned. Cool on rack before filling.

Variations:

Chocolate-Wafer Crust – Prepare as above, except omit sugar and substitute 1 1/4 cups finely crushed chocolate wafers (about 25 wafers) for crushed graham crackers. DO NOT BAKE!

Gingersnap Crust – Prepare as above, except omit sugar and substitute 1 1/4 cups gingersnaps (about 20-22 cookies) for crush graham crackers (ok to bake).

Vanilla-Wafer Crust – Prepare as above, except omit sugar and substitute 1 1/4 cups finely crushed vanilla wafers (about 36-40 wafers) for crushed graham crackers. If baked, bake in 375 degree oven for 7 to 10 minutes or until edge is golden.