Strawberry Icebox Pie is a refreshing, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for warm weather or any time you’re craving something sweet and fruity. This creamy pie features a graham cracker crust, a luscious strawberry filling, and a light whipped topping, making it a family favorite for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking required: Perfect for hot days when you want to avoid turning on the oven.
- Bursting with flavor: Made with real strawberries for a fresh and vibrant taste.
- Quick and easy: Simple to prepare with minimal effort and ingredients.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or variations to make it your own.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Graham cracker crust (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- Granulated sugar
- Cornstarch
- Water
- Cream cheese, softened
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or freshly whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the crust: If making a homemade crust, combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter and press into a pie dish. Chill for 10 minutes.
- Make the strawberry filling: In a saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes jam-like. Let cool completely.
- Make the creamy layer: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth, then mix in sweetened condensed milk until fully combined. Fold in half of the whipped topping.
- Assemble the pie: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust. Layer the cooled strawberry filling on top.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Top and serve: Garnish with the remaining whipped topping and fresh strawberries. Slice and serve cold.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 8
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate crust: Use an Oreo crust instead of graham crackers for a chocolate-strawberry combo.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
- Extra fruity: Mix in other berries like raspberries or blueberries with the strawberry filling.
- Lemon twist: Add a splash of lemon juice to the filling for a zesty kick.
- Lower sugar: Substitute sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: Not applicable; serve this pie chilled.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw the frozen strawberries first and drain excess liquid before using.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pie is best when made the day before to allow it to set properly.
How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Ensure the crust is well-packed and chilled before adding the filling. For extra protection, brush the crust with melted chocolate and let it set before adding the cream layer.
Can I use whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, freshly whipped cream works beautifully as a substitute.
How do I make a homemade graham cracker crust?
Mix 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs with 6 tablespoons of melted butter and ¼ cup of sugar. Press firmly into a pie dish and chill.
Can I skip the cream cheese?
For a lighter version, replace the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or omit it entirely, increasing the whipped topping.
What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?
You can use a mixture of evaporated milk and sugar or a homemade sweetened condensed milk substitute.
How long does this pie take to set?
It typically sets in about 4 hours in the refrigerator. For firmer results, chill overnight.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, a store-bought graham cracker crust is a quick and convenient option.
Is this pie suitable for summer parties?
Absolutely! Its cool, refreshing flavors make it a hit at summer gatherings and picnics.
Conclusion
Strawberry Icebox Pie is the ultimate no-bake dessert that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. With its creamy texture, fresh strawberry flavor, and sweet graham cracker crust, it’s perfect for warm-weather celebrations or anytime you want a refreshing treat. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a favorite!
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
Description
This Strawberry Icebox Pie is a refreshing no-bake dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy strawberry filling, and fresh strawberry topping. Perfect for summer gatherings or any time you need a light, fruity treat!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, pureed (about 1 pint)
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
For the Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- Optional: whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
1. Make the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
- Refrigerate the crust for 10-15 minutes to set while preparing the filling.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in the pureed strawberries and mix until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the strawberry mixture until light and fluffy.
3. Assemble the Pie:
- Spread the strawberry filling evenly into the prepared crust.
- Arrange the sliced strawberries on top in a decorative pattern.
4. Chill the Pie:
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is firm.
5. Serve:
- Slice and serve chilled. Garnish with whipped cream, if desired.
Notes
- Make Ahead: This pie can be made up to a day in advance, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Variations: Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.