Strawberry Icebox Pie is a classic no-bake dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with a creamy filling and a buttery graham cracker crust. This refreshing treat is perfect for warm weather and is sure to become a family favorite.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- No baking required, making it an easy and quick dessert.
- Packed with fresh, juicy strawberries for a naturally sweet flavor.
- Perfect balance of creamy filling and crunchy crust.
- Ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or any casual occasion.
- Can be made ahead of time, so itโs stress-free when entertaining guests.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Unsalted butter (melted)
- Cream cheese
- Granulated sugar
- Heavy whipping cream
- Fresh strawberries (sliced)
- Strawberry gelatin
- Water
Directions
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Press the mixture into a pie dish to form a crust. Chill in the refrigerator for 15โ20 minutes.
- Make the Cream Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture. Spread this filling over the prepared crust.
- Prepare the Strawberry Layer: Dissolve strawberry gelatin in boiling water, then let it cool slightly. Arrange sliced strawberries over the cream filling, and carefully pour the gelatin mixture over the top.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4โ6 hours, or until fully set.
- Serve: Slice and serve cold, garnished with additional fresh strawberries if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 4โ6 hours
Variations
- Berry Mix: Replace some strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry version.
- Chocolate Crust: Use crushed chocolate cookies instead of graham crackers for a rich, chocolatey base.
- Coconut Twist: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the cream layer for added texture and flavor.
- Sugar-Free: Opt for sugar-free gelatin and a sugar substitute for a lighter dessert.
- Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and coconut cream in place of heavy whipping cream.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: Not applicable, as this is a chilled dessert.
FAQs
How far in advance can I make this pie?
You can make this pie up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using.
How do I keep the crust from crumbling?
Ensure the graham cracker crumbs are finely ground and well mixed with butter to hold together. Chill the crust before adding the filling.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Absolutely! A pre-made graham cracker crust works perfectly to save time.
Can I use a different fruit?
Yes, you can substitute strawberries with peaches, mangoes, or any soft fruit of your choice.
Can I skip the gelatin?
Skipping the gelatin might make the pie less firm. You could try a natural thickener like agar-agar as an alternative.
Why is my filling runny?
Ensure the heavy cream is whipped to stiff peaks, and the gelatin is properly dissolved and cooled before use.
How do I cut clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, and wipe it clean between each slice.
What can I use instead of graham crackers?
Crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or shortbread cookies make excellent substitutes.
Is this pie gluten-free?
Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for a gluten-free version.
Conclusion
Strawberry Icebox Pie is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert thatโs perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant flavors, creamy texture, and simple preparation, itโs a treat everyone will love. Whether youโre hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a refreshing sweet option, this pie is sure to impress!
Print
Strawberry Icebox Pie
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Icebox Pie is a delightful, no-bake dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a creamy filling, all nestled in a buttery crust. It’s a perfect treat for warm days when you want something refreshing without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
For the Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- Optional: additional whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
- Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
- Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, beating until well combined.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
- Fold in the sliced strawberries.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
- Arrange the halved strawberries on top of the filling for decoration.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Serve:
- Once set, slice the pie and serve chilled.
- If desired, garnish with additional whipped cream.
Notes
- For a twist, consider using a pretzel crust instead of graham crackers to add a salty contrast to the sweet filling.
- This pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
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