Strawberry Icebox Pie

Strawberry Icebox Pie

This no-bake Strawberry Icebox Pie is a delightful and refreshing dessert, perfect for warm days. It features a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy and fluffy filling bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, and a topping of juicy strawberries. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, it’s a hit for any occasion!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 crackers)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped

For the Topping:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• Optional: Whipped cream for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Crust:

1. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
2. Stir in melted butter until evenly combined.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

2. Prepare the Filling:

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Fold in the chopped strawberries.

3. Assemble the Pie:

1. Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust.
2. Arrange sliced strawberries on top for decoration.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.

4. Serve:

• Slice and serve chilled.
• Optionally, garnish with whipped cream.

Notes

• Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Fresh strawberries work best, but frozen (thawed and drained) can be used in a pinch.
• For a firmer filling, add 1 tablespoon of powdered gelatin dissolved in 2 tablespoons of warm water.

Tips

• Use a food processor for finely ground graham cracker crumbs.
• To easily remove pie slices, grease the pie dish lightly before pressing in the crust.
• Chill the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream for better volume.

Servings

• Yields 8 servings

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g

Benefits

• Strawberries are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune health.
• Cream cheese provides a source of calcium.
• A no-bake dessert is convenient and keeps the kitchen cool in warm weather.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this pie in advance?
A: Yes! It can be made a day in advance. It actually tastes better as the flavors meld together.

Q: Can I use a different crust?
A: Absolutely! You can use a store-bought crust, Oreo crust, or even a shortbread crust for variation.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze this pie?
A: Yes, it freezes well. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

This Strawberry Icebox Pie is a delightful blend of creamy texture and fresh strawberry flavor, perfect for any gathering. Enjoy this easy-to-make dessert that leaves everyone wanting more!