In the world of desserts, the no-bake variety holds a special place. They’re perfect for warm seasons or whenever you want something delightful without turning on the oven. Today, let’s delve into a recipe that combines the richness of cream cheese, the sweetness of blackberries, and the crunch of a graham cracker crust into one irresistible treat: the No-Bake Frozen Blackberry Pie. This dessert not only pleases the palate but also offers a refreshing twist with its frozen element.
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
For the Blackberry Filling:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 1/2 cups fresh blackberries, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Graham Cracker Crust Preparation:
- Begin by buttering a 10-inch round pie dish to ensure a non-stick base.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter, stirring until the mixture is well combined.
- Press this crumbly mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pie dish, creating a solid base for your filling. Once done, set aside as you prepare the filling.
Crafting the Blackberry Filling:
- Take a small bowl and gently mash the blackberries with a fork. This releases their natural juices and flavor, setting the stage for a vibrant filling.
- In a larger bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until you achieve soft peaks. This will add a light and airy texture to your pie.
- In another mixing bowl, blend together the cream cheese, sugar, lemon zest, mashed blackberries, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream with the blackberry mixture to maintain the lightness.
- Pour this creamy, fruity mixture over the prepared crust, smoothing out the top for an even layer.
Freezing:
- Freeze the pie for at least 4 hours or, for best results, overnight. This will ensure the pie sets perfectly, offering a sliceable texture that holds its shape.
- Before serving, let the pie thaw for about 10-15 minutes. This slight softening makes slicing easier and enhances the flavors.
Garnishing:
- Top the pie with fresh blackberries for an extra burst of freshness and a visually appealing finish.
Serving and Storage:
This pie serves 6-8, making it perfect for gatherings or a family dessert. If there are leftovers, cover the pie and keep it frozen. When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw briefly as before.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 435 kcal per serving.
Preparation Time:
- Active: 20 minutes
- Total: 20 minutes (plus freezing time)
This No-Bake Frozen Blackberry Pie is a testament to the fact that you can create a decadent, eye-catching dessert without an oven. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a regular day when you crave something sweet and refreshing, this pie is sure to win hearts. Try it out and indulge in the creamy, fruity goodness that promises to make any day a bit more special.
Note
The recipe provided is designed for basic purposes, meant to serve a standard portion. However, the accompanying picture features additional layers, intended for a larger gathering, but rest assured, the core recipe shared is suitable for everyday use.
