Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies

Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies are a delightful way to enjoy summer flavors in a fun, bite-sized dessert. These mini treats combine the sweetness of strawberries with creamy vanilla ice cream, all nestled in a crispy graham cracker crust. Perfect for parties, picnics, and family gatherings, they are easy to make and sure to impress your guests. Whether it’s a hot day or a casual get-together, these pies are the ideal sweet indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can whip up these delicious mini pies without any fuss.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of roasted strawberries and vanilla ice cream creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a cozy family dinner, these pies fit right in.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add whipped cream or chocolate drizzle for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Individual Servings: Each mini pie is its own portion, making them easy to serve and enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mini pie or tart pans
• Food processor
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mini pie or tart pans: These pans help shape the perfect crusts for your mini pies.
• Food processor: This tool makes crushing graham crackers quick and effortless.
• Baking sheet: A baking sheet allows you to easily roast strawberries evenly in the oven.

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust

• 15 graham crackers
• Pinch of ground cinnamon
• Pinch of fine sea salt
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Ice-Cream Filling

• 2 pounds (906g) strawberries, hulled and quartered
• ⅓ cup (66g) granulated sugar
• 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 4 large scoops vanilla ice cream

How to Make Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place four mini pie or tart pans on a baking sheet for easy handling.

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers until they form fine crumbs.
2. Add a pinch of cinnamon and salt; pulse again to mix well.
3. Pour in the melted butter and blend until fully combined.
4. Divide this crumb mixture among the mini pans, pressing it firmly into an even layer at the base and up the sides.
5. Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 12 to 15 minutes. Allow them to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. While the crusts are baking, arrange the hulled strawberries in an even layer on another baking sheet.
2. Sprinkle granulated sugar over the strawberries and toss gently to coat.
3. Drizzle pure vanilla extract over them, tossing once more to combine thoroughly.
4. Roast in the oven until tender and their juices thicken, approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Let cool completely.

Step 4: Assemble Your Pies

1. Spoon roasted strawberries into each cooled crust. When ready to serve, top with generous scoops of vanilla ice cream for that refreshing finish!

How to Serve Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies

Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies are delightful treats perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Pair with Fresh Mint

• Adding fresh mint leaves on top of each pie enhances the flavor and gives a vibrant look.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A rich chocolate sauce complements the sweetness of the strawberries, creating a delicious contrast.

Add Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top adds creaminess and makes these pies even more indulgent.

Serve with Extra Strawberries

• Fresh strawberry slices on the side provide a refreshing burst of flavor that pairs well with the pies.

Include Ice Cream Scoops

• Serve alongside additional scoops of vanilla ice cream for an extra creamy treat that everyone will love.

Offer a Variety of Toppings

• Set up a toppings bar with nuts, sprinkles, or crushed graham crackers so guests can customize their pies to their liking.

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How to Perfect Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies

To ensure your Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries enhance the flavor significantly compared to frozen ones.
• Chill Your Crust: Allow your baked crust to cool completely before adding filling; this prevents sogginess.
• Scoop Quickly: When adding ice cream, work quickly so it doesn’t melt too much before serving.
• Experiment with Flavors: While vanilla is classic, try different ice cream flavors like strawberry or chocolate for variety.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain texture and flavor.
• Garnish Creatively: Use edible flowers or colorful sprinkles for added visual appeal when serving.

Best Side Dishes for Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies

When serving Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with them.

1. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal berries and citrus adds freshness to the meal.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses balances the sweetness and provides a savory contrast.
3. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch complements the sweet pies perfectly and offers a fun texture.
4. Pavlova: This light meringue dessert filled with whipped cream and fruit is an elegant addition.
5. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate between bites of rich pie.
6. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add another layer of sweetness alongside your mini pies.
7. Granola Parfait: Layer granola with yogurt and fruit for a satisfying crunch that pairs well with dessert.
8. Coffee or Tea: Offering coffee or tea provides a warm beverage option that contrasts beautifully with the cold pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common errors.

• Skipping the cooling step: If you don’t let the crust cool completely, it may become soggy when you add the filling. Always allow adequate cooling time for a perfect texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can alter the taste and consistency. Use precise measurements for the best results.
• Overbaking the crust: A burnt crust can ruin your pies. Keep an eye on them while baking; they should be golden brown but not dark.
• Using frozen strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture. If you must use frozen ones, thaw them completely and drain excess liquid.
• Forgetting to let the ice cream soften: Scooping hard ice cream onto your filling can create a mess. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies

• Freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
• Wrap individual pies in plastic wrap before placing them in a container.

Reheating Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, then warm for about 10 minutes to soften slightly.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 15-20 seconds to avoid melting completely.
• Stovetop: Not recommended, as it may cause uneven heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies?

Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies are small desserts made with graham cracker crusts filled with roasted strawberries and topped with vanilla ice cream.

Can I customize my Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies?

Yes! You can use different fruits like blueberries or raspberries, and even swap out vanilla ice cream for chocolate or strawberry flavors.

How long do Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, they last up to three days; if frozen, they can last up to two months.

Are there any no-bake options for making these pies?

While this recipe requires baking for the crust, you could use store-bought graham cracker crusts for a no-bake version.

Final Thoughts

Mini Strawberry Ice Cream Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite fruits or toppings, making it a treat everyone will love!