The Best Copycat Cracker Barrel Strawberry Lemonade Icebox Pie (So Easy and Refreshing!)
I’ll be honest with you—one of the best desserts I’ve ever had at Cracker Barrel was their Strawberry Lemonade Icebox Pie.
It’s sweet, tangy, creamy, and so refreshing, especially on a warm day. The first time I tasted it, I knew I had to figure out how to make it at home.
After a few tries in my kitchen, I finally nailed the perfect copycat version. And let me tell you—you’re going to love how easy and delicious it is.
Let’s get straight into it.
What Is Strawberry Lemonade Icebox Pie?
If you’ve never tried it before, think of this pie as the perfect mix of a lemon cream pie and a strawberry shortcake. It has a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and tangy lemon filling, and a topping of fresh strawberries that makes it look and taste like summer in every bite. And since it’s an icebox pie, you don’t even have to bake it—just chill it in the fridge until it sets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This pie uses simple ingredients that you can easily find. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Graham cracker crumbs – for the crust.
- Butter – melted to hold the crust together.
- Sugar – adds sweetness.
- Sweetened condensed milk – creamy base for the filling.
- Fresh lemon juice – gives that tangy lemonade flavor.
- Lemon zest – boosts the lemon taste.
- Whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream) – makes the filling fluffy.
- Fresh strawberries – for the topping.
Optional: A drizzle of strawberry syrup for extra sweetness.
How to Make Copycat Cracker Barrel Strawberry Lemonade Icebox Pie
This pie comes together in three easy steps:
Step 1: Make the Crust
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a pie dish and chill it in the fridge while you make the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Filling
In a bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Fold in the whipped topping until smooth and creamy. Pour this mixture over the chilled crust.
Step 3: Add Strawberries and Chill
Top the pie with fresh strawberry slices. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better). Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Icebox Pie
- Use fresh lemons – bottled juice won’t give you the same bright flavor.
- Chill overnight – the longer it sets, the better the texture.
- Fresh strawberries only – frozen ones release too much water and make the pie soggy.
- Homemade whipped cream – if you want it extra light and fluffy, whip your own cream instead of using Cool Whip.
Why You’ll Love This Pie
- No baking required.
- Refreshing and light, perfect for summer.
- Tastes just like the Cracker Barrel version.
- Easy enough for beginners.
This is the kind of dessert that makes everyone think you worked hard, but really it only took a few minutes to whip together.
Variations You Can Try
- Strawberry-Lemon Swirl – add a little strawberry puree to the filling.
- Blueberry Lemonade Pie – swap strawberries with blueberries for a twist.
- Mini Pies – make individual servings using muffin tins.
- Extra Creamy – add cream cheese to the filling for a cheesecake-like texture.
How to Store Strawberry Lemonade Icebox Pie
- Store in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 4 days.
- You can freeze it too! Just wrap slices tightly and store for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
What to Serve With This Pie
This pie already shines on its own, but it’s even better with:
- A glass of iced tea or lemonade.
- Fresh whipped cream on top.
- A drizzle of strawberry syrup for extra sweetness.
FAQs About Copycat Cracker Barrel Strawberry Lemonade Icebox Pie
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is always better, but bottled works in a pinch.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This pie is perfect for making the night before. Just keep it in the fridge until ready to serve.
Q: Can I use a store-bought crust?
Absolutely. A premade graham cracker crust works great if you want to save time.
Q: How do I keep strawberries from getting watery?
Slice them right before serving, or lightly toss them in sugar if you’re adding them earlier.
Q: Can I make this with other fruits?
Yes! Blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches pair beautifully with the lemon filling.
And that’s it—your copycat Cracker Barrel Strawberry Lemonade Icebox Pie. It’s sweet, tangy, creamy, and looks so pretty that everyone will think you picked it up from a bakery. Once you try it, you’ll see why this dessert is a Cracker Barrel favorite.
