Cherry Coconut Ice Cream Pie

Nothing says summer quite like a cool and creamy dessert that brings a burst of flavor to your taste buds. One of the best ways to enjoy these warm days is with a refreshing slice of Cherry Coconut Ice Cream Pie. This delightful treat combines the sweetness of cherries with the tropical flavor of coconut for a dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. It’s easy to make and perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply indulging in a relaxing evening at home. Let’s dive into the recipe and create your new favorite summertime dessert!

**Ingredients:**

– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– 6 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 quart cherry vanilla ice cream
– 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix well until the mixture resembles wet sand.

2. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form the pie crust. Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

3. Soften the cherry vanilla ice cream slightly by leaving it out at room temperature for a few minutes. Once softened, spread the ice cream evenly over the cooled crust.

4. Sprinkle the shredded coconut over the ice cream layer, pressing it gently into the ice cream to adhere. Arrange the cherry halves on top of the coconut in a decorative pattern. Place the pie in the freezer and freeze until the ice cream is firm, about 4-6 hours or overnight.

5. Before serving, prepare the whipped cream topping. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until it begins to thicken. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to whip until stiff peaks form.

6. Remove the pie from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to make slicing easier. Serve each slice of Cherry Coconut Ice Cream Pie with a dollop of whipped cream on top.

**Closing Comments:**

With its irresistible combination of cherry and coconut flavors, this Cherry Coconut Ice Cream Pie is a delicious way to cool off on a hot summer day. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, a picnic, or simply treating yourself, this dessert is sure to be a hit. The creamy ice cream and crunchy graham cracker crust create a delightful contrast of textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, whip up this delightful pie, savor each bite, and enjoy the flavors of the season!