How to Make a Cookie Crumb Crust

Cookie crumbs form the bases of many pies and cheesecakes this time of year, and they’re a cinch to make in a food processor. Just add a little butter, press into the bottom of your pan, and your crust is ready to go!

Follow the steps below for a delicious cookie crumb crust every time. Try it with classic graham crackers, or use gingersnaps to complement the flavors of fall; scroll down for great recipes to try.

1. Process the cookies Break the cookies into a food processor fitted with a metal blade. Add any other dry ingredients called for in your recipe (such as nuts). Pulse until the cookies from fine crumbs.

2. Transfer the crumbs to a bowl Transfer the crumb mixture to a mixing bowl, using a silicone spatula to scrape all of it out of the work bowl.

3. Stir in melted butter Add melted butter to the crumb mixture according to your recipe, and mix well until evenly moistened.

4. Press the crumbs into the pan Pour the crumb mixture into the pan specified in your recipe. Using your fingertips, press the crumb mixture evenly onto the pan bottom and up the sides, if called for.

Try the technique in one of these delicious dessert recipes, each of which incorporates a cookie crumb crust:

• Classic Cheesecake
• Plum and Goat Cheese Terrine with Gingersnap Crust
• Citrus Chiffon Pie
• Gino Cofacci’s Chocolate Rum Cheesecake