Strawberry Dream Icebox Pie

Short Description: A creamy, refreshing pie with layers of strawberries and cream cheese, set in a buttery graham cracker crust—perfect for summer!

Ingredients:

• Crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
• Filling:
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, whipped
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Topping:
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • Whipped cream (optional)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand.
   • Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, covering the bottom and sides.
   • Bake for 8-10 minutes until the crust is golden and fragrant. Let it cool completely.
2. Make the Strawberry Mixture:
   • In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
   • Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
   • In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
4. Assemble the Pie:
   • Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
   • Spoon the cooled strawberry mixture over this layer.
   • Top with the remaining cream cheese mixture, spreading it evenly across the pie.
5. Chill:
   • Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with the remaining fresh strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream if desired. Enjoy your Strawberry Dream Icebox Pie chilled and delightful!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chill Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Kcal: Approx. 350 kcal per slice