Transform your favorite homemade desserts with this buttery, golden-baked Vanilla Wafer Crust—a simple yet indulgent base that elevates pies, cheesecakes, and tarts to perfection. Made with crushed vanilla wafers, melted unsalted butter, and a touch of granulated sugar, this crust combines irresistible crunch with a rich, subtly sweet flavor. In just 20 minutes (10 minutes of prep and bake time each), you’ll have a versatile crust with a texture that perfectly complements creamy or custard fillings. Whether you're crafting a no-bake cheesecake or a luscious cream pie, this easy-to-make crust, baked until lightly fragrant, is guaranteed to be your new go-to recipe. Perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers, this Vanilla Wafer Crust is your shortcut to dessert success!
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
Place the vanilla wafers in a food processor and pulse until they form fine crumbs. Alternatively, you can place the wafers in a resealable plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
Measure out 200 grams (about 2 cups) of the crushed vanilla wafer crumbs and pour them into a mixing bowl.
Melt the unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop until fully liquefied.
Add the melted butter and granulated sugar to the vanilla wafer crumbs. Mix thoroughly with a spatula or spoon until the texture resembles wet sand.
Pour the mixture into your chosen pie pan, tart pan, or cheesecake springform pan.
Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan and slightly up the sides, using the bottom of a flat glass or measuring cup for smooth, even coverage.
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant.
Remove from the oven and let the crust cool completely before adding your filling.
Use as the base for your favorite dessert like a cream pie, no-bake cheesecake, or custard tart.
Calories |
1781 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 132.9 g | 170% | |
| Saturated Fat | 89.1 g | 446% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 188 mg | 63% | |
| Sodium | 78 mg | 3% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 158.3 g | 58% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 111.7 g | ||
| Protein | 7.3 g | 15% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 18 mg | 1% | |
| Iron | 0.0 mg | 0% | |
| Potassium | 18 mg | 0% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.