Strawberry desserts have a special place in my heart, and I think they do for many of us! There’s just something about biting into a sweet, juicy strawberry that screams summer, isn’t there? My go-to treat these days is this Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie—it’s a delightful twist on the classic shortcake but in a frozen form that’s perfect for those hot days. I remember the first time I made it for a family barbecue; everyone was raving about how creamy and refreshing it was! It quickly disappeared, and I had to promise to make it again. Trust me, once you try this pie, you’ll want to whip it up for every gathering. It’s not just delicious; it’s super easy to make, and it looks gorgeous on the table! So, let’s get started on this summer favorite!
Ingredients List
For the Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie, you’ll want to gather these simple ingredients. They’re all about bringing out that fresh strawberry flavor and creamy goodness!
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced: Make sure they’re ripe and sweet for the best flavor!
- 1 cup heavy cream: This will give the pie its rich, velvety texture. Whip it up until soft peaks form!
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk: It adds the perfect amount of sweetness and creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Just a splash to enhance all those lovely flavors.
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust: Keep it simple and convenient—no baking required!
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to creating a deliciously refreshing dessert that’s perfect for summer! Don’t forget to wash those strawberries before slicing—freshness is key!
How to Prepare Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie
Alright, let’s dive into making this dreamy Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie! It’s super straightforward, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Grab your mixing bowls and a whisk—let’s get started!
Step-by-step Instructions
- First, take those lovely sliced strawberries and toss them in a bowl with a sprinkle of sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This will help release their juices and intensify that sweet flavor!
- While those strawberries are working their magic, whip your heavy cream in another bowl. Use an electric mixer or a whisk—whatever you have on hand. Beat it until soft peaks form. You want it fluffy, but don’t overdo it!
- Now, gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract into the whipped cream. This is where it starts to get really creamy and delicious. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream; we want to keep that light texture!
- Next, gently fold in the macerated strawberries along with their juices. This adds that gorgeous color and flavor. Just a few folds until everything is combined—no need to overmix!
- Pour this luscious mixture into your pre-made graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula for a nice finish. Cover with plastic wrap and pop it into the freezer!
- Now, here’s the hard part—waiting! Freeze for at least 4 hours or until it’s firm. I usually make it a day ahead if I’m hosting; that way, it’s ready when I need it!
- When you’re ready to serve, take it out of the freezer and let it sit for a few minutes at room temperature before slicing. It makes cutting those perfect slices so much easier!
And there you have it! An easy, refreshing pie that’s sure to impress. I can’t wait for you to taste it—enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a sweet treat like this Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie, it’s always good to know what’s in it, right? Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per slice, so you can enjoy every delicious bite without worry. Remember, these are estimates based on standard ingredients used, so keep that in mind!
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Cholesterol: 40mg
So, as you can see, this pie strikes a delightful balance between indulgence and refreshment. Perfect for those summer days when you just want something cool and satisfying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie is truly a gem in my recipe collection, and I think you’re going to adore it too! Here are just a few reasons why this pie is a must-make for any summer gathering:
- Quick to make: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip this up in no time!
- Refreshing: The cool, creamy filling combined with juicy strawberries is the perfect way to beat the heat on those hot days.
- Perfect for summer: This pie screams summer vibes! It’s light, fruity, and totally fits the season.
- No baking required: Just assemble and freeze—no oven needed! It’s a great way to save time and avoid heating up the kitchen.
- Visually appealing: The vibrant strawberries shining through that creamy filling make this pie a showstopper on any dessert table!
Honestly, once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become my go-to dessert. It’s not just easy; it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone wanting more!
Tips for Success
Making the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie is all about those little details that can elevate your dessert from good to absolutely fantastic! Here are my top tips to ensure your pie turns out wonderfully every time:
- Fresh strawberries are key: Always opt for the ripest, juiciest strawberries you can find. If they’re in season, even better! You can also mix in some other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a delightful twist.
- Chill your mixing bowls: For even fluffier whipped cream, try chilling your mixing bowl and whisk beforehand. It helps keep the cream cold and whips up beautifully!
- Customize the crust: If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the graham cracker crust for an Oreo crust or a homemade cookie crust. It adds a fun flavor twist that pairs nicely with the strawberries!
- Make it a day ahead: This pie is perfect for making in advance. Letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and it’s one less thing to worry about on the day of your gathering!
- Experiment with flavors: For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract or a hint of lemon zest to the filling. It brightens up the whole dessert!
- Presentation is everything: When serving, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry or two. It makes for a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress!
With these tips in your back pocket, I just know your Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie will be a hit. Enjoy every step of the process, and don’t forget to taste along the way—it’s the best part!
Variations
One of the best things about this Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to suit your taste or whatever fruit is in season. Here are some fun variations to get your creative juices flowing:
- Mixed Berry Delight: Swap out some or all of the strawberries for a mix of your favorite berries—blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries work beautifully! The combination adds a lovely tartness and vibrant color.
- Tropical Twist: Try using diced mango and pineapple instead of strawberries for a refreshing tropical vibe. You could even add a hint of coconut milk to the filling for an extra tropical flair!
- Peachy Keen: Fresh or even canned peaches can be a delightful alternative. Just make sure to drain any canned peaches well to avoid excess liquid. A sprinkle of cinnamon can really enhance the peach flavor!
- Chocolate Strawberries: For all the chocolate lovers out there, fold in some mini chocolate chips to the filling or drizzle melted chocolate over the top before freezing. It adds a rich, decadent touch!
- Nutty Crust: Instead of a graham cracker crust, try using a crushed almond or pecan crust for a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Flavor Infusions: Add a splash of almond extract or a bit of lemon or lime zest to the filling for a citrusy kick that brightens up the dessert. It’s such a simple way to elevate the flavors!
Don’t hesitate to mix and match these ideas! The beauty of this pie is that you can tailor it to your preferences or whatever speaks to you at the moment. Enjoy experimenting, and I can’t wait to hear about your delicious creations!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep that delicious Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie fresh and ready to enjoy! This pie is a dream for leftovers, and knowing how to store it properly means you can savor every last bite without worry.
First off, if you have any pie left over (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. This will help keep that creamy texture intact and prevent any freezer burn. It can stay in the freezer for up to a month—perfect for those spontaneous dessert cravings!
When you’re ready to serve it again, remove the pie from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes. This little wait will make slicing a breeze and ensure that it’s not too hard to dig into. Trust me, no one wants to wrestle with a frozen pie!
If you find yourself needing to serve a slice or two, just take out what you need and put the rest back in the freezer right away. It’s super simple! And remember, this pie is best enjoyed straight from the freezer, so no need to worry about reheating. Just slice, serve, and enjoy that refreshing goodness!
FAQ Section
Got questions? Don’t worry, I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about this Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie that I think you’ll find helpful:
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the pie. You might want to add a touch more sugar to compensate for the less intense flavor of frozen fruit. Just remember, fresh is best if you can get them!
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
You bet! This pie is perfect for making a day or two in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so it’s a great make-ahead option for parties or gatherings!
How long can I keep the pie in the freezer?
The Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie can last up to a month in the freezer if stored properly. Just be sure it’s tightly wrapped or in an airtight container to keep that creamy texture intact!
What if I don’t have a graham cracker crust?
No problem at all! You can use any pre-made crust you like—Oreo, shortbread, or even a homemade cookie crust work wonderfully. Each brings its own unique flavor to the pie!
Can I add other flavors or ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative! You can mix in other fruits, add a splash of almond extract, or fold in some chocolate chips for a fun twist. The possibilities are endless!
How do I slice the pie once it’s frozen?
Let the pie sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before slicing. This softens it just enough to make cutting easier without compromising that delicious, icy texture!
If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to help you create the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie that everyone will love.
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Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie: 7 Steps to Pure Bliss
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing dessert that combines strawberries and cream in a frozen pie.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix sliced strawberries with a little sugar and set aside.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract into the whipped cream.
- Gently fold in the strawberries.
- Pour the mixture into the graham cracker crust.
- Cover and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Slice and serve directly from the freezer.
Notes
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
- Let the pie sit for a few minutes at room temperature before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie, frozen dessert, strawberry pie