Landry's Unique Vanilla Pecan Pie

Adapted from Gourmet, from the recipes submitted by readers. This is very unusual - there is no corn syrup, and only egg whites are used, and there is no pie pastry. This is not like any other pecan pie I have ever seen before. I haven't tried this one yet, but have it planned for next holiday season. — Jun 30, 2004

4 large egg whites
1 1/3 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup granulated sugar
1 1/3 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/3 teaspoons vanilla
1 cup pecans, coarsley chopped

whipped cream, as garnish,optional

Preheat oven to 350 F and butter a 9-inch pie plate.

Beat egg whites using an electric mixer until they hold stiff peaks.

Fold in the graham cracker crumbs, the sugar, baking powder, vanilla, and nuts using a rubber spatula.

Pour into a buttered pie plate and bake for 25-30 minutes or until pie is puffy and golden.

Let cool before serving. If desired, garnish with whipped cream.