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This homemade strawberry ice cream pie is the perfect summer dessert, combining the creamy richness of strawberry ice cream with the crunch of a graham cracker crust. Topped with fresh strawberries, caramel sauce, and a dollop of whipped cream, it’s a cool, refreshing treat that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just want a sweet treat, this pie is a crowd-pleaser.
This seven-ingredient recipe is an easy dessert. It takes 20 minutes to make and an hour to set. Of course, you could make homemade ice cream first, but this pie is just as spectacular with high-quality store-bought ice cream.
The Chemistry of Strawberry Pie
The key to achieving a perfect strawberry ice cream pie lies in the balance between the crust and the filling. The graham cracker crust needs to be firm enough to hold the ice cream without crumbling, which is achieved by baking the crust until it’s golden brown and then allowing it to cool completely before adding the ice cream. The strawberry ice cream should be slightly softened before spreading to ensure an even layer that adheres well to the crust. Finally, freezing the pie for at least an hour allows the ice cream to firm up and makes slicing the pie easier.
What is in strawberry ice cream pie?
Graham Crackers
Provide a crunchy base for the pie.
Brown Sugar
Is granulated sugar with a little molasses mixed in. Molasses is a somewhat smoky flavored natural sweetener, which makes brown sugar a bit sweeter than granulated sugar. Brown sugar draws more moisture into your treat, keeping it softer for longer. It’s also more acidic, which means it will help activate your baking soda.
Melted Butter
It is important to use melted butter when it is called for. Melted butter evenly coats the gluten in the recipe and helps bind the ingredients. You can also use melted butter as a substitute for vegetable oil.
Strawberry Ice Cream
The star of the filling, offering a creamy and fruity flavor.
Caramel Suace
Adds a rich, sweet topping that complements the strawberries.
Fresh Strawberries
Enhance the pie with a burst of freshness and color.
Whipped Cream
It adds a light, airy finish to the dessert. You can use store-bought or homemade. Making it by scratch is quick and easy. Just take two cups of heavy cream, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Whip with a hand mixer until it reaches stiff peaks.
How do you make a strawberry ice cream pie?
- Prepare the crust. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. In a food processor, chop the graham crackers into fine crumbs. Stir in the melted butter and brown sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture into a greased pie dish and bake for 10 minutes until golden brown. Remove and let cool.
- Assemble the pie. While the crust cools, let the strawberry ice cream sit out to soften. Once the crust is cool, scoop the softened ice cream into the pie shell and spread it into an even layer. Place the pie in the freezer for at least 1 hour to set.
- Add the toppings. Once the pie is set, top it with chopped fresh strawberries, warmed caramel sauce, and a generous amount of whipped cream. Serve immediately or return to the freezer until ready to enjoy.
How to Store Ice Cream Pie
Store the pie in the freezer, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to a week.
This pie is perfect for making ahead of time. Simply prepare and freeze, then add the toppings just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this strawberry ice cream pie as a cool, refreshing dessert on a hot day. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or as a sweet treat any day of the week. Pair it with iced tea or lemonade for the ultimate summer experience.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the earliest ice cream pies date back to the 19th century? Originally known as “ice cream cakes,” these frozen treats were a popular way to enjoy ice cream in a new and exciting form. Today, ice cream pies like this strawberry ice cream pie continue to be a favorite summer dessert, blending the best of both worlds: the crunch of a pie crust and the cool, creamy delight of ice cream.
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Why make strawberry ice cream pie?
This strawberry ice cream pie is perfect for summer picnics, BBQs, or warm-weather gatherings. It’s cool, has a creamy texture, and is a hit at pool parties and family get-togethers. You can also make it for special occasions like birthdays or a sweet surprise for a loved one.
This pie is incredibly easy to assemble and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for a quick dessert. The graham cracker crust adds a buttery crunch that pairs perfectly with the smooth, creamy strawberry ice cream. The fresh strawberries and caramel sauce take this dessert to the next level, adding a burst of fruity sweetness and a rich, gooey finish. Plus, it’s a dessert that can be made ahead of time, so it’s ready to go whenever you are.
FAQs
How do I prevent freezer burn on my ice cream pie?
To avoid freezer burn, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer. If possible, store the pie in an airtight container.
Can I use store-bought crust for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust if you’re short on time. However, making the crust from scratch adds a delicious, homemade touch.
How long can I store this pie in the freezer?
This pie can be stored in the freezer for up to a week. Make sure to cover it well to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Can I use different types of ice cream?
Absolutely! While strawberry ice cream is a classic choice, you can substitute with vanilla ice cream, chocolate ice cream, or any other favorite flavors to create your own twist on this dessert.
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Strawberry Ice Cream Pie
Ingredients
Crust
- 16 Graham crackers
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 6 tbsp melted butter
Filling
- 1 carton strawberry ice cream
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1 cup strawberries chopped
- 1 cup whipped cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees
- In a hand food processor, chop up the package of graham crackers to a fine crumb.
- Stir in the melted butter and sugar until it looks like a wet sand
- Press the crust into a greased pie dish, bake for 10 minutes.
- Remove and allow the cool while the ice cream sits and thaws
- Scoop the ice cream into the pie shell and spread until even.
- Place in the freezer for at least 1 hour to set.
- Remove from the freezer and top with chopped strawberries, warmed caramel sauce and whipped cream.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition
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