Cracker Pie

 
   When you can't run to the store and buy every fresh ingredient that you want, you use what you have in your pantry.  This is how so many classic country pies were created.  Even when your pantry is stocked with the same staples, moving away from repetition and being creative, brought to life many "concoctions" that are now tried and true favorites.
   This Cracker Pie is one such creation.  Made with the same proportions and folded into the meringue, a variety of nuts, dried fruits, or other ingredients can be used. Personal taste or locale, may be the determining factors.
   I hope you find this version delicious, but be creative and try your own version as well.

As Always,
ENJOY!

INGREDIENTS

3 egg whites
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup chopped pecans
20 Ritz crackers, crumbled
3 oz. dark chocolate, finely chopped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Beat egg whites until stiff.  Add baking powder and gradually add the sugar.  Fold in the crackers and pecans.

Carefully fold in the finely chopped chocolate.

Scoop mixture into a heavily buttered 9 inch pie pan.  Bake for 30 minutes.

Baked pie will rise slightly above edge of pan.

Let cool completely before cutting.  One slice, may not be enough.  If you are a meringue lover, you will be addicted!!