Description
Strawberry Icebox Pie is a delightful no-bake dessert perfect for warm weather. It combines a luscious strawberry filling made from fresh fruit cooked to a thickened consistency, a creamy blend of cream cheese and whipped cream, all set in a crunchy graham cracker crust. This pie offers a refreshing combination of tart and sweet flavors with smooth textures, making it an ideal treat for summer gatherings or any time you crave a cool, fruity dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Cream Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
Base and Topping
- 1 prepared graham cracker crust (9-inch)
- Additional fresh strawberries for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberry Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and fresh lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens, about 8–10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely.
- Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Strawberry Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Fold the cooled strawberry mixture into the cream cheese until well combined, creating a flavorful filling base.
- Combine with Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese and strawberry mixture until the filling is light and fully blended, careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the mixed filling into the prepared graham cracker crust and smooth the top evenly with a spatula. Cover the pie with plastic wrap.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set firmly.
- Serve with Fresh Strawberries: Before serving, top the pie with additional fresh strawberries if desired for an added fresh and decorative touch.
Notes
- For a firmer set, freeze the pie for 1 hour before serving.
- You can substitute frozen strawberries (thawed and drained) for fresh if needed without significant flavor loss.
- Ensure the strawberry mixture is completely cooled before combining with cream cheese to prevent curdling.
- Use a hand or stand mixer to achieve best whipping results for the cream and cream cheese.
