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### **How to Make Strawberry Icebox Pie**
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Crust**
Start by preparing the crust for your pie:
1. **Crush the graham crackers**: If you’re starting with whole graham crackers, place them in a food processor or put them in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin until they form fine crumbs.
2. In a bowl, mix together the **graham cracker crumbs**, **sugar**, and **cinnamon** (if using).
3. Pour the **melted butter** into the mixture and stir until everything is well coated and the crumbs begin to clump together.
4. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan, tart pan, or springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to create an even, compact layer.
5. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill for about **30 minutes** while you prepare the filling. Chilling the crust helps it set properly.
#### **Step 2: Make the Strawberry Filling**
Now it’s time to prepare the creamy filling:
1. **Puree the strawberries**: Place the chopped fresh strawberries in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, then set aside.
2. In a large bowl, beat the **cream cheese** until soft and smooth, using an electric mixer or stand mixer. Add the **sweetened condensed milk**, **lemon juice**, and **vanilla extract**, and continue mixing until everything is well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the **heavy cream** and **powdered sugar** together until stiff peaks form. This should take just a couple of minutes with an electric mixer.
4. Gently fold the **whipped cream** into the cream cheese mixture, then add the **strawberry puree**. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy.
#### **Step 3: Assemble the Pie**
Now that the crust and filling are ready, it’s time to assemble the pie:
1. Pour the creamy strawberry filling into the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it for at least **4 hours**, or until the filling has set. If you have time, leaving it in the fridge overnight will give the flavors even more time to meld.
#### **Step 4: Garnish and Serve**
Once the pie has set and is ready to serve, garnish it with **sliced fresh strawberries**, a dollop of **whipped cream**, and even a sprinkle of **crushed graham crackers** for some extra texture. Slice it up and enjoy!
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### **Serving Suggestions**
This **Strawberry Icebox Pie** is perfect for any occasion, and you can serve it alongside a variety of other dishes:
– **For Summer Parties**: This pie is a wonderful addition to any summer barbecue or picnic, offering a refreshing treat that won’t weigh you down.
– **As a Light Dessert**: Pair it with light, fresh dishes like a spinach salad or grilled chicken to keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
– **For a Sweet Snack**: Serve it with a cup of iced tea or lemonade for an afternoon treat.
– **Top with Other Fruits**: Feel free to get creative with toppings—raspberries, blueberries, or even a mix of tropical fruits would be delicious!
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### **Tips for Success**
– **Use Fresh Strawberries**: For the best flavor, use fresh strawberries, but if they’re out of season, frozen strawberries will work too. Just make sure they’re well-drained and not too watery.
– **Chill the Pie**: Be patient and let the pie set in the refrigerator for the full 4 hours (or longer). The longer it sets, the firmer and creamier it will become.
– **Swap the Crust**: While graham crackers are the classic choice, feel free to use other crust options like Oreo crumbs, shortbread, or even a homemade cookie crust for a fun twist.
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### **Final Thoughts**
This **Strawberry Icebox Pie** is the perfect combination of sweet, creamy, and fruity, offering a refreshing dessert that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a summer party, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this pie is guaranteed to be a hit. Light, cool, and utterly delicious, **Strawberry Icebox Pie** is a must-try for anyone who loves strawberries and creamy desserts.
So grab some fresh strawberries and whip up this crowd-pleasing dessert—it’s sure to become your new favorite! 🍓🍰
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