Dulce de Leche Ice Cream Pie

**Dulce de Leche Ice Cream Pie**

*A Creamy, Caramel-Infused Frozen Dessert with a Buttery Cookie Crust and a Rich, Velvety Finish*

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### Introduction

If you’re a fan of dulce de leche, get ready to fall in love with this indulgent **Dulce de Leche Ice Cream Pie**. Combining the luscious sweetness of caramelized milk with a cool and creamy ice cream texture, this dessert is pure bliss in every bite. With a simple cookie crust, a silky filling, and a drizzle of sauce on top, this ice cream pie is a showstopper that’s deceptively easy to make.

Whether served at a dinner party, summer gathering, or as a make-ahead treat for busy days, this pie balances the rich decadence of dulce de leche with the refreshing lightness of frozen dessert. Best of all, it’s no-bake (unless you want to toast the crust), and can be adapted to suit your tastes — add nuts, chocolate, or a sprinkle of sea salt for a delicious twist.

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### Ingredients

#### For the Crust:

* 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)

* 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

* ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

* 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

#### For the Dulce de Leche Ice Cream Filling:

* 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold

* 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

* 1 cup store-bought or homemade dulce de leche (plus more for drizzling)

* 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

* ½ teaspoon sea salt (optional, for balance)

#### Optional Toppings:

* Extra dulce de leche (warmed slightly for drizzling)

* Whipped cream

* Crushed toffee or caramel candies

* Chocolate shavings or chips

* Chopped pecans or walnuts

* Sea salt flakes

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### Instructions

#### 1. Prepare the Crust

1. In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon.

2. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.

3. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish or springform pan. Use a measuring cup to compact it tightly and evenly.

4. Optional: Bake the crust in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes for a firmer texture and a toasty flavor. Allow to cool completely.

*Tip: You can substitute the graham cracker crust with a chocolate cookie crust (like Oreos) for a different flavor profile.*

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#### 2. Make the Dulce de Leche Ice Cream

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with a hand or stand mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This should take 3–5 minutes.

2. In a separate bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk, dulce de leche, vanilla extract, and sea salt (if using) until fully blended and smooth.

3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the dulce de leche mixture, being careful not to deflate the air from the whipped cream. Fold until just combined and smooth.

4. Pour the mixture into the cooled pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

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#### 3. Freeze

1. Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

2. Freeze for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, until firm.

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#### 4. Add Final Touches Before Serving

1. Remove the pie from the freezer about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

2. Warm a few tablespoons of dulce de leche in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, just until pourable.

3. Drizzle the warmed dulce de leche over the top of the pie.

4. Add whipped cream swirls, toffee bits, chocolate shavings, or a pinch of sea salt flakes if desired.

*Tip: A hot knife will help you get clean slices for serving.*

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### Storage

* Store in the freezer for up to **2 weeks**, wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

* Leftovers should be re-frozen immediately after serving.

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### Final Thoughts

This **Dulce de Leche Ice Cream Pie** is a delicious, no-fuss dessert that offers a gourmet experience with minimal effort. It's the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and slightly salty flavors in a chilled format that’s incredibly satisfying.

Whether you're making it for a birthday, barbecue, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this frozen pie will not disappoint. With room to experiment — think espresso powder, chopped nuts, or even a chocolate swirl — it can be tailored to your taste and the season.

Would you like a version with homemade dulce de leche or a dairy-free adaptation?