Introduction
When I first made this Shamrock Shake Pie, it was an instant hit with my family. The creamy minty filling, paired with the buttery graham cracker crust, made it the perfect dessert for any occasion. My kids loved the bright green color, and the refreshing mint flavor reminded us all of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. It’s now a family favorite, and I’m excited to share it with you!
Why You’ll Love Shamrock Shake Pie
This recipe combines the nostalgia of a classic Shamrock Shake with the elegance of a pie. It’s perfect for:
- St. Patrick’s Day celebrations or themed parties.
- A no-bake dessert that’s quick to assemble.
- A refreshing treat with a creamy texture and minty flavor.
- Its visually stunning green hue that makes it stand out on the dessert table.
- Minimal ingredients and effort for a dessert that wows.
Ingredients
- 12 graham crackers
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 2½ cups milk, cold
- ¼ teaspoon green food coloring
- 2 teaspoons mint extract
- 5.1 ounces box of instant vanilla pudding mix
- 8 ounces container of whipped topping, thawed
Optional toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or shortening and set aside. Place graham crackers and brown sugar in a food processor, blending until fine crumbs form. Slowly add melted butter while processing on low speed until the mixture sticks together. Press the crumbs firmly into the bottom and sides of the pie dish. Freeze for 15–20 minutes until the crust is firm.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, green food coloring, and mint extract until evenly mixed. Add the vanilla pudding mix, whisking until it thickens. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes.
- Combine the filling: Fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until smooth and well incorporated. Spoon the filling into the prepared crust, smoothing the top.
- Freeze the pie: Place the pie in the freezer for at least 6 hours, or until completely set.
- Serve: Garnish with whipped cream and maraschino cherries, if desired. Serve cold.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 8
- Calories: 383 kcal per serving
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Freezing Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
How to Serve
- Slice the pie into 8 even servings.
- Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Add a maraschino cherry for a festive look.
- Serve with a cup of coffee or mint tea for a perfect pairing.
Additional Tips
- For a stronger mint flavor, increase the mint extract by ½ teaspoon.
- Use natural food coloring for a lighter green hue.
- For extra texture, sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top.
- To make it even creamier, use whole milk in the filling.
- Freeze leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
FAQ Section
- Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, a store-bought graham cracker crust works perfectly if you’re short on time. - Can I make this pie dairy-free?
Substitute almond milk and dairy-free whipped topping for a dairy-free version. - How far in advance can I prepare this pie?
You can prepare it up to 2 days ahead and store it in the freezer. - What if I don’t have green food coloring?
You can skip it, but the pie won’t have its signature green color. - Can I use chocolate graham crackers?
Absolutely, for a chocolatey twist that pairs well with mint. - What’s the best way to cut the pie?
Use a knife dipped in warm water to make clean cuts. - How long does the pie last in the freezer?
It stays fresh for up to 1 month if properly covered. - Can I add chocolate chips to the filling?
Yes, fold in mini chocolate chips for added texture and flavor. - Is it possible to double the recipe?
Yes, simply use a larger dish or make two pies. - What can I use instead of pudding mix?
Use a homemade vanilla custard, but it will require additional preparation time.
Conclusion
Shamrock Shake Pie is a delightful dessert that combines a refreshing mint flavor with a creamy texture, all housed in a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s visually stunning, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s St. Patrick’s Day or a simple family dinner, this pie will undoubtedly be the star of the show. Give it a try and watch it become a household favorite!
PrintShamrock Shake Pie
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful fusion of a classic Shamrock Shake and a creamy pie with this easy-to-make dessert. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any occasion that calls for a minty treat, this pie combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a smooth, mint-flavored filling. Garnish with whipped cream and maraschino cherries for an extra touch of festivity.
Ingredients
- 12 graham crackers
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
- 2½ cups cold milk
- ¼ teaspoon green food coloring
- 2 teaspoons mint extract
- 1 (5.1-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or shortening; set aside.
- In a food processor, blend graham crackers and brown sugar until fine crumbs form.
- With the processor on low speed, gradually add melted butter until crumbs adhere together.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of the prepared pie dish.
- Freeze the crust for 15–20 minutes, or until firm.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together cold milk, green food coloring, and mint extract until evenly combined.
- Add the instant vanilla pudding mix; whisk until the mixture begins to thicken.
- Let the pudding sit for about 5 minutes to further thicken.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture until fully incorporated.
- Spoon the filling into the chilled crust, smoothing the top.
- Set the Pie:
- Freeze the pie for at least 6 hours, or until the filling is completely set.
- Serve:
- Before serving, optionally top with additional whipped cream and maraschino cherries.
- Serve the pie cold.
Notes
- For a more intense mint flavor, consider increasing the mint extract to 2½ teaspoons.
- Natural food coloring can be used for a subtler green hue.
- Store leftovers in the freezer; allow slices to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅛ of pie)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 36 g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg