Stupid Pie is a simple, old-fashioned dessert made from basic pantry staples like Ritz crackers, egg whites, and pecans. It’s a crustless pie with a light, crunchy texture and sweet, nutty flavor—topped with whipped cream for a no-fuss treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is beloved for its ease and nostalgic flavor. It takes just minutes to assemble and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients or baking skills. The crunchy, sweet meringue-like base pairs beautifully with the creamy whipped topping, making it an ideal choice for quick desserts, potlucks, or family dinners.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Egg whites
- Granulated sugar
- Ritz crackers, crushed
- Chopped pecans
- Vanilla extract
- Whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy. Gradually add sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in crushed Ritz crackers, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pie dish.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Let the pie cool completely at room temperature.
- Once cooled, spread whipped topping over the pie.
- Optionally, chill for 1–2 hours before serving for a firmer texture.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 8 slices
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 25–30 minutes
- Chill time (optional): 1–2 hours
Variations
- Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans.
- Use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought topping.
- Add mini chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or a touch of cinnamon to the batter.
- Swap Ritz crackers with gluten-free buttery crackers for a gluten-free version.
- Mix in crushed pineapple for a fruity twist.
storage/reheating
- Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3–4 days.
- Best served cold or at room temperature.
- Freezing is not recommended, as it may alter the texture.
FAQs
What is Stupid Pie?
Stupid Pie is a retro dessert made with egg whites, sugar, crackers, and nuts. It forms a crustless meringue-like base and is topped with whipped cream.
Why is it called “Stupid Pie”?
Because it’s ridiculously easy to make—just a few ingredients, no crust, and always delicious.
Can I use other types of crackers?
Yes, buttery crackers like Club crackers work well, or use gluten-free alternatives.
Do I have to top it with whipped cream?
Not at all. It’s optional, but it adds a creamy contrast to the crunchy base.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for preparing a day in advance. Just wait to top with whipped cream until before serving.
What kind of nuts can I use?
Pecans are traditional, but walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts can be used.
Can I make it in a different pan?
Yes, an 8×8-inch square pan or similar size baking dish works if you don’t have a pie plate.
Is it gluten-free?
Not with Ritz crackers, but you can substitute gluten-free crackers to make it gluten-free.
How do I know it’s done baking?
The top should be golden and set in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.
Can I freeze it?
Freezing is not recommended as it can make the texture soggy after thawing.
Conclusion
Easy Stupid Pie lives up to its name—unbelievably simple and irresistibly tasty. With its airy, nutty base and creamy topping, this no-fuss dessert is a retro gem you’ll make again and again. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or just because.
Print
Easy Stupid Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (includes cooling)
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Category: Pie / Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A playful, no-fuss pie with a creamy, sweet filling set in a buttery crust—perfect for beginners or anyone craving an effortless dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 (9-inch) pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Place pie crust in a 9‑inch pie plate and flute the edges if desired.
- In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and whisk until just combined—do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the top gently.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the filling is set at the center and golden on top.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely (about 1 hour) before slicing to allow it to firm up.
- Serve plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or fresh berries.
Notes
- If the crust edges brown too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking.
- Let the pie cool fully to prevent a runny center.
- Try adding a teaspoon of lemon or almond extract for a flavor twist.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pie)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg