Description
A classic Strawberry Icebox Pie featuring a buttery graham cracker crust filled with a creamy strawberry and cream cheese mixture, topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. Perfectly chilled to deliver a refreshing, sweet dessert that’s ideal for warm weather or any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
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
Topping
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- Whipped cream, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar, stirring until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish using the back of a spoon to form an even crust.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until it turns lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before adding the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Puree fresh strawberries in a blender or food processor until smooth. Gently fold the strawberry puree into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the strawberry-cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated, creating a light, airy filling.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the filling mixture evenly into the cooled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
- Chill the Pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set properly and develop flavors.
- Add the Topping: Before serving, arrange the fresh sliced strawberries on top of the pie. For an optional extra touch, add dollops of whipped cream as garnish.
- Serve: Slice the chilled pie and enjoy its creamy, refreshing flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Chilling the pie overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen ones, thawed and drained.
- Use a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan for best results.
- To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, fully bake and cool it before adding the filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
