Imagine biting into a dessert that perfectly combines the richness of chocolate, the fluffiness of marshmallow, and the freshness of strawberries. This Chocolate Strawberry Marshmallow Pie is precisely that—a delightful treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The combination of an Oreo cookie crust, a creamy marshmallow filling, and fresh strawberries topped with chocolate syrup creates an irresistible dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Let’s explore how to create this delicious masterpiece.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 3 cups (150 g) mini marshmallows
- ½ cup (122.5 g) whole milk
- 1 ½ cups (357 g) heavy cream
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups (162 g) crushed Oreo Cookies (about 20 cookies)
- ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Toppings:
- 4-6 fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and diced
- Chocolate syrup or hot fudge topping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marshmallow Filling
- Melt the Marshmallows: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the mini marshmallows and whole milk. Stir constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. This process ensures the marshmallows do not burn and that the mixture is homogeneous. Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool completely. This should take about 30 minutes.
- Whip the Heavy Cream: While the marshmallow mixture is cooling, pour the heavy cream into a mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, start mixing at the lowest speed, gradually increasing to medium until the cream begins to thicken and form soft peaks. Soft peaks occur when the cream holds its shape but still has a slight droop. This step is crucial for creating a light and airy filling.
- Combine the Mixtures: Once the marshmallow mixture has cooled, gently fold it into the whipped cream. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream. This combination creates a fluffy and creamy filling that will complement the rich Oreo crust.
Step 2: Make the Oreo Crust
- Crush the Oreo Cookies: In the bowl of a food processor, add the Oreo cookies and pulse until they are finely ground. If you don’t have a food processor, you can place the cookies in a resealable plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Combine with Butter: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies with the melted butter. Stir until all the crumbs are evenly coated with butter. This mixture should resemble wet sand and will form the base of your pie crust.
- Form the Crust: Pour the Oreo crumb mixture into a deep 9-inch pie pan. Press the crumbs firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan to create an even crust. Using the bottom of a measuring cup can help press the crumbs down evenly.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Add the Filling: Once the crust is prepared, evenly spoon the marshmallow filling into the Oreo crust. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
- Chill the Pie: Place the assembled pie in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is set. You can also let it chill overnight for the best results. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the filling to firm up.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Prepare the Strawberries: Just before serving, wash, hull, and dice the fresh strawberries. These will add a refreshing burst of flavor and a pop of color to your pie.
- Add the Toppings: Garnish the top of the pie with the diced strawberries. Drizzle chocolate syrup or hot fudge topping over the strawberries for an added layer of decadence. If you prefer, you can also add a few mini marshmallows on top for extra texture and visual appeal.
- Serve: Slice the pie and serve immediately. Each slice will be a delightful combination of rich chocolate, fluffy marshmallow, and fresh strawberries, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Strawberry Marshmallow Pie
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
For the best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh strawberries will provide a more vibrant flavor and better texture than frozen ones.
2. Don’t Overmix the Filling
When folding the marshmallow mixture into the whipped cream, be gentle to maintain the light and airy texture of the filling.
3. Chill Thoroughly
Make sure to chill the pie for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set properly. Chilling overnight will yield even better results.
4. Customize Your Toppings
Feel free to get creative with the toppings. You can add shaved chocolate, nuts, or even a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.
Variations to Try
1. Different Flavored Syrups
Try using different flavored syrups, such as caramel or white chocolate, instead of chocolate syrup to change up the flavor profile.
2. Mixed Berries
Instead of just strawberries, use a mix of berries like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a more complex fruity flavor.
3. Oreo Variations
Experiment with different types of Oreo cookies for the crust, such as mint Oreos or chocolate-filled Oreos, to add a unique twist to your pie.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Dessert: Serve this pie as a show-stopping dessert at your next dinner party or family gathering. Its beautiful presentation and delicious flavors are sure to impress.
- For Special Occasions: This pie is perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion where you want to treat your guests to something extra special.
- With a Beverage: Pair it with a glass of cold milk, a cup of hot coffee, or a glass of champagne for an elegant touch.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a brief nutritional breakdown per serving (based on an approximate serving size):
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Sugars: 35g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
Storing and Freezing
- In the Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The pie tastes best when slightly chilled.
- Freezing: You can freeze Chocolate Strawberry Marshmallow Pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
Chocolate Strawberry Marshmallow Pie is a dessert that combines the best of all worlds: the rich flavor of chocolate, the fluffiness of marshmallows, and the fresh taste of strawberries. It’s easy to make, requires no baking, and is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Whether you’re serving it at a party, a family gathering, or just as a special treat for yourself, this pie is guaranteed to impress and satisfy. Enjoy creating and indulging in this delightful dessert! Happy baking!