This no-bake S’mores Ice Cream Pie is the ultimate summer dessert, combining all the nostalgic flavors of s’mores with the creamy richness of vanilla ice cream. The graham cracker crust provides the perfect crunch, while the marshmallows and chocolate chips melt together to create the dreamiest filling. Topped with extra chocolate syrup and crushed graham crackers, it’s a dessert that’ll satisfy every sweet tooth.
With its easy prep and no-bake nature, this ice cream pie is perfect for warm days when you want a dessert that’s as simple as it is satisfying. It’s also highly customizable; feel free to add more marshmallows, change up the chocolate chips, or drizzle it with caramel for a fun twist. Whether for a family gathering or a last-minute BBQ, this pie will quickly become a crowd favorite!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
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1/4 cup sugar
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6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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1 quart vanilla ice cream, softened
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1 cup mini marshmallows
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1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
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1/2 cup crushed graham crackers for topping
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1/4 cup chocolate syrup
Directions:
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Combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a medium bowl. Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are moistened. Press this mixture into the bottom of a pie dish to form the crust. Freeze for 10-15 minutes to set.
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While the crust sets, soften the vanilla ice cream by letting it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes.
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Once the ice cream is soft, stir in the mini marshmallows and chocolate chips. Spoon this mixture over the chilled graham cracker crust and spread it evenly.
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Freeze the pie for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
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Before serving, drizzle the top with chocolate syrup and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers.
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Slice and enjoy your homemade s’mores ice cream pie!
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours, 20 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 8
When the weather warms up and cravings for something sweet kick in, there’s nothing more satisfying than a no-bake dessert that combines classic flavors with refreshing coolness. Enter the S’mores Ice Cream Pie: a decadent dessert that is perfect for summer gatherings, casual get-togethers, or simply to satisfy that sweet tooth in a way that’s both easy and impressive. With layers of graham cracker crust, creamy vanilla ice cream, gooey marshmallows, and chocolate chips, this dessert is a true celebration of all the best parts of a s’more in a cool, creamy pie form.
The Origins of S’mores
S’mores have been a beloved part of campfire traditions for generations. The combination of graham crackers, roasted marshmallows, and chocolate has long been a staple of outdoor gatherings, especially in North America. While the exact origins of the s’mores treat are unclear, it’s believed that the first mention of the treat was in a 1927 Girl Scout handbook, where it was referred to as “Some More.” The dessert quickly became a popular choice for campfires and outdoor activities, evolving into the familiar “s’mores” name. Over time, the classic s’mores combo found its way into kitchens, inspiring variations like s’mores bars, cakes, and pies.
Why You’ll Love S’mores Ice Cream Pie
The beauty of this dessert lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The crunchy graham cracker crust provides a satisfying base that complements the silky smoothness of the ice cream filling. The mini marshmallows melt into the ice cream, creating pockets of gooey, sugary goodness, while the chocolate chips add a rich, indulgent bite. The best part? It’s a no-bake pie, meaning you don’t need to worry about turning on the oven during those hot summer months. This makes it a convenient dessert for busy cooks who still want to impress their guests with something creative.
Another fantastic thing about this pie is its versatility. While the classic s’mores flavor combination is always a hit, you can customize this dessert to your liking. Whether you prefer dark chocolate, white chocolate, or milk chocolate chips, this recipe can easily accommodate your favorite flavor variations. You could even add a layer of caramel, peanut butter, or fresh fruit to make it your own!
The Science Behind the Perfect Ice Cream Pie
Creating the perfect no-bake dessert comes down to getting the ratios just right. The crust must be firm enough to hold the ice cream and toppings but not so thick that it overwhelms the dessert’s delicate flavors. The ice cream should be soft enough to mix in marshmallows and chocolate chips but still firm enough to hold its shape after freezing. Understanding these balance points ensures that each bite of S’mores Ice Cream Pie delivers the perfect blend of sweetness, creaminess, and texture.
A key trick to making this pie stand out is the graham cracker crust. The crust not only adds crunch but also provides a subtle, slightly sweet flavor that mimics the foundation of a traditional s’more. The buttery graham cracker mixture should be pressed firmly into the pie dish to prevent it from falling apart when slicing. Freezing the crust before adding the ice cream ensures it stays firm and doesn’t get soggy.
S’mores Ice Cream Pie for All Ages
One of the most appealing aspects of S’mores Ice Cream Pie is its universal appeal. It’s the perfect dessert for kids and adults alike. For children, the combination of marshmallows, chocolate, and ice cream is sure to delight their sweet-toothed cravings. For adults, the nostalgic flavors of campfire s’mores bring back fond memories of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a birthday party, or a summer barbecue, this dessert is guaranteed to bring smiles to the faces of everyone around the table.
The no-bake aspect also makes it an ideal treat for those who may not be comfortable with baking. It requires no complicated techniques, and the prep time is minimal. You can even get creative by adding different mix-ins like crushed cookies, fruit preserves, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce on top to elevate the dessert further.
Healthier Alternatives
While this S’mores Ice Cream Pie is indulgent and rich, there are plenty of ways to make it a bit lighter without sacrificing flavor. You can opt for low-fat or dairy-free ice cream for a lighter, plant-based version of the dessert. For those with gluten sensitivities, using gluten-free graham crackers for the crust ensures that everyone can enjoy the pie. If you’re looking to cut back on sugar, there are plenty of sugar-free chocolate chips and marshmallow options available to create a dessert that’s a little easier on the waistline without compromising too much on taste.
Perfect for Every Occasion
S’mores Ice Cream Pie is perfect for any occasion, but it’s especially great for summer events. Its cooling effect is ideal for hot days when you don’t want to stand over a hot stove or oven. Serve it at a family reunion, a pool party, or even as an easy dessert for a holiday meal. It’s also a fantastic option for potlucks or picnics, where it’s sure to get rave reviews and requests for the recipe.
Even though this pie is a hit in the summer, its chocolatey and marshmallow-filled flavors work year-round. From holiday celebrations to backyard barbecues, this dessert can be enjoyed at any time of year.
Tips for the Perfect S’mores Ice Cream Pie
- Use high-quality ice cream – The ice cream is the base of this dessert, so it’s important to use a premium vanilla ice cream that will complement the other ingredients. You can also experiment with flavored ice creams such as chocolate, caramel, or even coffee for a twist on the classic.
- Customize with toppings – Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings. A drizzle of hot fudge, a few more marshmallows, or even a sprinkle of toasted coconut can add extra flavor and texture.
- Allow plenty of time to freeze – For the best results, make sure to give the pie ample time to freeze. This ensures that the filling sets properly and the pie holds together when sliced.
- Serve it frozen, but not too frozen – While this pie needs to be frozen to set, it’s best served when it’s slightly softened. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before slicing for easier serving.
Conclusion: A Timeless, Easy-to-Make Dessert
S’mores Ice Cream Pie is more than just a dessert it’s an experience. With its layers of flavor, creamy texture, and simple preparation, it’s the ultimate sweet treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just satisfying a personal craving, this pie is a surefire way to impress your guests and elevate your dessert game.
This no-bake dessert will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection, offering all the nostalgia of a classic s’mores treat without the hassle of a campfire. With endless customization options and the ability to be made in advance, this pie is the perfect way to bring joy to any occasion.