If you’ve been dreaming of a dessert that captures the essence of summer with a creamy, dreamy twist, let me introduce you to the Strawberry Dulce De Leche Ice Cream Pie Recipe. This indulgent treat layers luscious dulce de leche, fresh strawberries, and smooth ice cream all nestled in a perfectly spiced graham cracker crust. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a celebration with every bite, thanks to the balance of sweet, tangy, and rich flavors that come together to create a truly unforgettable pie experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a strawberry cream pie with four clear layers. The bottom layer is a crumbly light brown crust inside a white pie dish. Above the crust is a smooth pink cream layer that fills the pie base. On top of the pink cream, there are thin, glossy caramel-colored stripes arranged neatly across the surface. Around the edge of the pie, there are evenly spaced white whipped cream swirls. Each swirl is topped with a halved bright red strawberry, showing their juicy inner texture with green stems still attached. The pie sits on a textured light brown cloth on a white marbled surface. In the background, a white bowl full of fresh whole strawberries and a clear plastic strawberry container can be seen. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for the Strawberry Dulce De Leche Ice Cream Pie Recipe is wonderfully straightforward, yet each component plays a vital role. From the buttery graham cracker crust to the fresh strawberries bursting with color and the silky dulce de leche, every ingredient adds a unique layer of flavor, texture, and visual appeal.

Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/4 cups / 168g): The foundation of your crust, offering a buttery, slightly crisp base.
Granulated sugar (2 tbsp / 26g): Sweetens and helps the crust caramelize beautifully during baking.
Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds a warm, cozy spice to the crust that complements the strawberries perfectly.
Salted butter, melted (6 tbsp / 84g): Binds the crust ingredients and imparts richness.
Heavy whipping cream, cold (multiple measures): Key for creating fluffy whipped layers and silky ice cream components.
Powdered sugar (various amounts): Provides gentle sweetness to whipped cream and fillings without graininess.
Dulce de leche (1/3 cup / 94g plus extra to drizzle): The star ingredient offering that luscious caramel flavor that ties the pie together.
Fresh strawberries (1 lb): Washed, hulled, and sliced to infuse the pie with juicy tartness and a vibrant red pop.
Water (2 tbsp / 30ml): Helps thin out the strawberry puree for the ice cream layer.
Cornstarch (1 1/2 tbsp): Thickens the strawberry mixture to give that perfect ice cream consistency.
Sweetened condensed milk (3/4 cup / 180ml): Adds creamy sweetness making the strawberry ice cream layer ultra-smooth and rich.
Red food coloring (2-4 drops, optional): Enhances the strawberry pink hue without changing flavor.
Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp): Rounds out the flavor for the whipped cream topping with a subtle floral note.

How to Make Strawberry Dulce De Leche Ice Cream Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by greasing a 9-inch pie pan and preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter in a bowl. Press this crumb mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of the pie pan, making sure it’s compact to hold all those luscious fillings. Bake it for 8 to 10 minutes just until it’s set and fragrant, then let it cool completely to keep your layers crisp and perfect.

Step 2: Whip Up the Dulce de Leche Layer

In a large bowl, whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form – it’s key to achieving that light, airy texture. Gently fold about half of the whipped cream into the dulce de leche, then fold in the remaining whipped cream carefully to retain the fluffiness. Pour this creamy dulce de leche mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it into a smooth, even layer. Finish by laying thin slices of fresh strawberries on top and pop the whole thing in the freezer to firm up.

Step 3: Create the Strawberry Ice Cream Layer

Puree 1 1/2 cups of halved strawberries with water for a bright, fresh flavor base. In a saucepan, mix cornstarch and granulated sugar, then stir in the strawberry puree, cooking it over medium heat and stirring constantly until it thickens and boils. Let this mixture cool completely. Meanwhile, whip more cold heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold half of it into sweetened condensed milk and fold in the rest gently. Incorporate the cooled strawberry mixture into this whipped base for an irresistibly creamy strawberry ice cream filling. Spread this over the strawberry layer in your pie and freeze for 4-5 hours or overnight until firm.

Step 4: Finish the Pie with Whipped Cream and Toppings

Right before serving, whip the remaining heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract to stiff peaks. Drizzle the pie with extra dulce de leche, pipe pretty swirls of whipped cream around the edge, and top with halved strawberries for a stunning presentation. Keep it frozen until you’re ready to indulge.

How to Serve Strawberry Dulce De Leche Ice Cream Pie Recipe

A slice of pie on a white plate shows three layers: a light brown crumbly base, a thick creamy caramel layer, and a pink creamy strawberry layer on top. There are two swirls of white cream on the pink layer, each topped with half a fresh red strawberry with green leaves. A drizzle of caramel sauce runs across the pink layer. A whole strawberry with green leaves rests near the slice on the plate. The background is a white marbled texture with a blurred view of the full pie and a bowl of caramel sauce. A silver fork lies next to the pie slice. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the Strawberry Dulce De Leche Ice Cream Pie Recipe, garnishing with fresh strawberry halves is a total must—they add brightness and freshness. Lace the pie with delicate dollops of whipped cream and finish off with a generous drizzle of dulce de leche for that perfectly glossy, caramelized finish that’ll catch everyone’s eye and taste buds.

Side Dishes

This pie is a star on its own, but pairing it with a light citrus sorbet or a simple mint salad adds a refreshing counterpoint. A cup of coffee or a glass of chilled rosé wine complements the sweetness and creaminess, balancing the rich dessert beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not transform the pie into an ice cream sandwich by layering slices between buttery shortbread cookies? You could also serve individual portions in pretty jars layered with crumbled graham crackers and strawberry compote. This Strawberry Dulce De Leche Ice Cream Pie Recipe adapts well to these charming, fun presentations that wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pie tightly covered in the freezer for up to one week. Keeping it well wrapped prevents freezer burn and preserves the fresh bright flavor of the strawberries and the creamy texture of the ice cream layers.

Freezing

This pie loves the freezer! It needs to be frozen for at least 4-5 hours after assembly and can be kept frozen for a week without sacrificing taste or texture. When freezing, make sure to cover it with plastic wrap followed by foil to lock in moisture and flavor.

Reheating

Since this is a frozen ice cream pie, reheating is not recommended—you want to enjoy it chilled to savor its signature creamy texture and refreshing strawberry notes. Simply let slices sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust for this pie?

Absolutely! While a graham cracker crust offers a classic flavor and texture, you could also try an Oreo crust or a nut-based crust for a fun twist. Just be sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the creamy layers.

Is it possible to make this pie dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream and dairy-free condensed milk alternatives. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might vary slightly but it will still be delicious.

How long does it take to prepare the Strawberry Dulce De Leche Ice Cream Pie Recipe?

The active prep time is about 25 minutes, but don’t forget to factor in the freezing time – ideally 4 to 5 hours or overnight – to let the pie set properly before serving.

Can I prepare this pie ahead of a party?

Definitely! This pie is perfect for making ahead. Assemble it the day before or even two days prior and keep it in the freezer until you’re ready to serve—it saves you last-minute dessert stress.

What is the best way to serve slices without melting?

Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water and wiped dry before slicing to get clean cuts. Serve slices immediately after cutting to avoid the ice cream softening too much.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Dulce De Leche Ice Cream Pie Recipe is truly a joy to make and even more delightful to share. Its layers of buttery crust, rich caramel, fresh strawberries, and creamy ice cream come together in perfect harmony, making it the perfect centerpiece for any celebration or a special treat just because. You’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients create such a spectacular dessert. Give it a try, and prepare for everyone to ask for seconds!