Hey y'all! If you're craving a cool, creamy dessert that's easy to whip up and guaranteed to impress, this Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Pie is your new go-to. With a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety vanilla ice cream, and ribbons of sweet cherry sauce, it's the perfect treat for summer BBQs, picnics, or just a fun family night in. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Pie
- No-bake recipe—so easy, even the kids can help!
- Rich, creamy vanilla ice cream paired with vibrant cherry flavor.
- Perfect cool-down dessert for hot days or festive gatherings.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings and flavors.
- Prep ahead and store in the freezer for effortless entertaining.
Ingredients for Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Pie
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 crackers)
- 6 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 ½ quarts vanilla ice cream (softened for 10 minutes)
- 1 ½ cups cherry pie filling (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
- Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)
Directions: How to Make Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 6 tablespoon melted butter, and 2 tablespoon sugar. Mix until the texture is like wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the bottom of a glass for a tight, even crust.
- Freeze the crust for 20 minutes to set while you work on the filling.
Step 2: Assemble the Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Pie Filling
- Let vanilla ice cream sit out until just soft enough to mix (about 10 minutes).
- In a large bowl, mix the softened ice cream with ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spread half the ice cream evenly over the chilled crust.
- Add ¾ cup cherry pie filling in spoonfuls over the ice cream and swirl gently with a knife.
- Top with the remaining ice cream, smoothing the top. Repeat with the remaining ¾ cup cherry pie filling, swirling for a marbled effect.
Step 3: Freeze and Garnish Your Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Pie
- Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and freeze for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) until firm.
- When ready to serve, let the pie sit at room temperature for 10 minutes for easy slicing.
- Top with whipped cream, extra cherry pie filling, and fresh cherries if desired.
Notes for the Best Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Pie
- For an extra-crispy crust, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes, then cool before filling. Find more tips on making perfect graham cracker crusts.
- Soften ice cream only until scoopable—too melted can make the pie icy.
- Swap in healthier ice cream options for a lighter treat.
Variations: Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Pie Twists
- Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream Pie: Use chocolate ice cream for a decadent flavor combo.
- Oreo Crust: Replace graham crackers with crushed Oreos for a chocolatey base.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or pecans between layers for added texture.
Required Equipment for Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Pie
- 9-inch pie pan
- Mixing bowls
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap or foil
Storage Instructions for Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Pie
Keep your Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Pie tightly covered in the freezer. It’s best enjoyed within 1 week for optimal texture and flavor, though it can keep up to 2 weeks. For easy slicing, let it sit on the counter for 10 minutes before serving.
Serving Recommendations for Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Pie
Serve slices with extra cherry pie filling and a big dollop of homemade whipped cream. Pair with iced coffee or a sparkling rosé for a refreshing summer treat. For more fun ideas, check out these summer dessert pairings.
Pro Tips for the Best Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Pie
- Use a warm, sharp knife for clean slices—run under hot water and wipe between cuts.
- Let the pie chill overnight for the firmest texture and best swirl effect.
- Choose high-quality vanilla ice cream for maximum creamy, rich flavor. Get advice on picking the best ice cream.
FAQ: Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Pie
- Can I make Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream Pie ahead of time?
- Absolutely! This pie is perfect for prepping up to 2 days in advance and storing in the freezer.
- Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
- Yes! Simmer 2 cups pitted fresh cherries with ¼ cup sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice for 10 minutes, then cool before layering.
- What if I don’t have a pie pan?
- No worries—use an 8x8-inch baking dish or even individual ramekins for mini ice cream pies.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes (includes freezing)
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ quarts vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
- 1 ½ cups cherry pie filling
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream, for topping
- Fresh cherries, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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1In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
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2Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, then let cool completely.
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3In a large bowl, fold the vanilla extract into the softened vanilla ice cream until well combined.
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4Spread half of the ice cream mixture into the cooled crust. Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the ice cream and gently swirl with a knife. Repeat with the remaining ice cream and cherry filling, swirling again.
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5Cover the pie and freeze for at least 3 hours or until firm.
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6Before serving, top with whipped cream and garnish with fresh cherries if desired. Slice and enjoy!
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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