Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pie is a celebration of flavor and texture—smooth, citrusy, fruity, and just the right amount of indulgent. It’s quick to assemble, requires no oven time, and is perfect for making ahead. Whether you’re entertaining guests, celebrating Cinco de Mayo, or simply want something sweet and refreshing, this dessert checks all the boxes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Granulated sugar
- Cream cheese, softened
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Fresh lime juice
- Lime zest
- Tequila (optional)
- Orange liqueur (optional)
- Fresh strawberries, pureed
- Heavy whipping cream, whipped
- Strawberries and lime slices, for garnish
Directions
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until fully combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk, mixing until well blended.
- Add lime juice, zest, tequila, and orange liqueur. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the strawberry puree and gently mix until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then fold it into the strawberry-lime mixture.
- Pour the filling into the chilled crust, smoothing the top.
- Cover and freeze for at least 6 hours, or until firm.
- Before serving, let the pie sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. Garnish with fresh strawberries and lime slices.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 8–10 people.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 6 hours
Total time: approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes
Variations
- Alcohol-free version: Skip the tequila and orange liqueur for a family-friendly dessert.
- Coconut twist: Add shredded coconut to the crust for tropical flair.
- Berry blend: Use a mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a mixed berry margarita flavor.
- Mini pies: Make individual servings using small tart pans or muffin tins.
Storage/Reheating
Store the pie covered in the freezer for up to 1 month. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator for about 1 hour before serving or sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. Do not microwave or reheat, as this will melt the filling.
FAQs
Can I make this pie without alcohol?
Yes, simply omit the tequila and orange liqueur. The pie will still have a delicious citrus and strawberry flavor.
What can I use instead of graham crackers?
You can use digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or shortbread cookies for the crust.
How long does it take for the pie to set?
It needs at least 6 hours in the freezer to firm up properly.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before pureeing.
Can I use a pre-made crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought graham cracker crust works just as well and saves time.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it up to 2 days in advance and keep it frozen until ready to serve.
How do I make the pie creamier?
Use full-fat cream cheese and do not overmix the whipped cream when folding it into the filling.
Can I add salt to the crust?
A small pinch of salt enhances the flavor of the crust, especially if you like a balance of sweet and salty.
What’s the best way to slice the pie?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wipe clean between each slice.
Can I use lemon instead of lime?
Yes, lemon juice and zest can be substituted for a slightly different but still delicious citrus flavor.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Margarita Icebox Pie is a stunningly simple dessert that captures the fun and flavor of a classic cocktail in a creamy, frozen form. With its blend of strawberry sweetness, tangy lime, and smooth creaminess, it’s guaranteed to impress your guests—or satisfy your own craving for something fresh and indulgent. Perfect for summer celebrations or anytime you want a taste of sunshine.
PrintStrawberry Margarita Icebox Pie
A refreshing no-bake Strawberry Margarita Icebox Pie that combines tangy lime, sweet strawberries, and a hint of in a creamy filling with a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion that calls for a cool, fruity dessert.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1 tbsp orange liqueur (optional)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped
- Fresh strawberries and lime slices, for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until fully combined and press evenly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk, mixing until well blended.
- Add lime juice, zest, and orange liqueur. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the strawberry puree until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the strawberry-lime mixture.
- Pour the filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top.
- Cover and freeze for at least 6 hours, or until firm.
- Before serving, let the pie sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. Garnish with fresh strawberries and lime slices.
Notes
- For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut to the crust.
- Use a mix of berries for a different flavor profile.
- Store covered in the freezer for up to 1 month.
- Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of pie)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 65mg