Strawberry icebox pie is a refreshing, no-bake dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious strawberry filling, and a light, creamy texture. Perfect for warm weather, this pie is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort. It’s an excellent choice for summer gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you crave a fruity, chilled treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Dessert – Ideal for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
- Fresh and Fruity – Made with real strawberries for a vibrant, natural flavor.
- Easy to Make – Simple steps with readily available ingredients.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for summer parties, picnics, and barbecues.
- Light and Creamy – A refreshing dessert with a smooth, silky texture.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
For the crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Granulated sugar
- Melted butter
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For the filling:
- Fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- Granulated sugar
- Cornstarch
- Water
- Lemon juice
- Cream cheese
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Vanilla extract
- Whipped topping or homemade whipped cream
Directions
-
Prepare the crust
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a pie dish.
- Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
-
Make the strawberry filling
- In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely.
-
Prepare the creamy base
- Beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
-
Assemble the pie
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
- Top with the cooled strawberry filling, spreading it evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
-
Serve
- Garnish with whipped topping and fresh strawberries if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8 slices
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Chilling time: 4 hours
Variations
- Oreo Crust – Use crushed Oreo cookies instead of graham crackers for a chocolatey twist.
- Lemon Strawberry Pie – Add extra lemon zest for a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Dairy-Free Version – Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream.
- Chocolate Drizzle – Drizzle melted chocolate over the pie for an indulgent touch.
- Extra Berries – Mix in blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing – Freeze the pie (without whipped topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Serving Tip – Serve the pie chilled for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.
How do I prevent the crust from crumbling?
Press the crust firmly into the pan and chill it before adding the filling.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, this pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Absolutely, a pre-made graham cracker crust works well for convenience.
How do I make homemade whipped cream?
Beat 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of sugar until soft peaks form.
Can I make this pie without cream cheese?
Yes, substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
How do I thicken the strawberry filling properly?
Use cornstarch and cook the mixture until it thickens before cooling.
Can I use a different fruit?
Yes, raspberries, blueberries, or peaches can be used instead of strawberries.
Why is my pie not setting properly?
Ensure it chills for at least 4 hours, and do not add warm filling to the cream mixture.
What can I serve with this pie?
It pairs well with vanilla ice cream, extra berries, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Conclusion
Strawberry icebox pie is a simple, delicious, and refreshing dessert perfect for warm days. With its creamy filling, fruity topping, and buttery crust, this no-bake treat is sure to impress at any gathering. Whether enjoyed fresh or stored for later, this pie is a delightful way to enjoy the sweet flavors of strawberries.
Print
Strawberry Icebox Pie
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Icebox Pie is a creamy, no-bake dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust, luscious strawberry filling, and a light whipped topping. Perfect for summer gatherings or a refreshing sweet treat!
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- For the Strawberry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Make the Crust
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes while preparing the filling.
- Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice.
- Cook, stirring, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries soften (about 5 minutes).
- Let cool completely.
- Step 3: Make the Creamy Layer
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
- Fold in the cooled strawberry mixture until smooth.
- Step 4: Assemble & Chill
- Pour the filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.
- Step 5: Make the Whipped Topping & Serve
- Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread or pipe over the chilled pie and garnish with fresh strawberries.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Shortcut Option: Use a store-bought graham cracker crust.
- Make It Lighter: Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt.
- Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
Nutrition
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Sugar: ~28g
- Sodium: ~250mg
- Fat: ~18g
- Saturated Fat: ~10g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~6g
- Trans Fat: ~0g
- Carbohydrates: ~42g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Protein: ~6g
- Cholesterol: ~45mg
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