Strawberry Icebox Pie is a refreshing and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for warm days. This no-bake treat combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy, luscious strawberry filling, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, mashed or pureed
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for whipping cream)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours (minimum)
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to ensure it’s evenly compacted.
- Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add the mashed or pureed strawberries to the cream cheese mixture and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the strawberry-cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Pour the strawberry filling into the prepared crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until set.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove the pie from the refrigerator and garnish with fresh strawberries or whipped cream, if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor, choose ripe and juicy strawberries.
- Whip Cream Properly: Ensure the whipping cream is cold to achieve stiff peaks for a light and airy filling.
- Customize the Crust: Swap the graham crackers for crushed vanilla wafers or chocolate cookies for a twist.
- Chill Time: Allow the pie to chill fully for a firm and sliceable texture.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the pie a day in advance for an even better flavor as the ingredients meld together.
Conclusion
Strawberry Icebox Pie is the ultimate no-bake dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The creamy strawberry filling paired with the buttery graham cracker crust creates a dessert that’s light, sweet, and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s for a summer barbecue or a family gathering, this pie is guaranteed to impress