Picture this: a warm summer evening, the sun setting slowly in the distance, and you’re sitting on the porch with a cold root beer float in hand. Now, imagine that iconic creamy root beer flavor transformed into a delicious, no-bake pie. This Creamy Root Beer Float Pie is the perfect dessert for those lazy, fun-filled days or any time you want to bring back those nostalgic memories of root beer floats. It’s sweet, fizzy, and utterly irresistible.
Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, preparing for a holiday gathering, or simply looking for something fun to make with the kids, this pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With a graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy filling, and a hint of fizzy root beer, it’s a dessert that combines the best of two classic treats in one unforgettable bite.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Root Beer Float Pie
If you’ve ever craved a root beer float on a hot day or tried to recreate the iconic flavor of that fizzy drink into something more substantial, this pie is the answer. It combines everything you love about root beer floats—without the hassle of having to sip through a straw. With its smooth cream cheese filling and hint of root beer soda, each bite is a refreshing taste of summer.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring no baking and just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re looking to impress your friends at a barbecue or treat yourself to something sweet, this pie is the perfect choice.
Ingredients for Your Root Beer Float Pie
To bring this nostalgic dessert to life, you’ll need just a few key ingredients that come together beautifully for a creamy, fizzy treat. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Crust:
- 1 graham cracker crust (9-inch) – You can use a store-bought crust for convenience or make your own for that homemade touch.
For the Filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened – This creates a smooth base for the filling, making the texture rich and creamy.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the mixture and gives it a fluffy texture.
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream – Adds richness and helps the filling hold its shape.
- 1/4 cup root beer concentrate – The essence of root beer in a concentrated form to infuse the pie with that signature flavor.
- 1/2 cup root beer soda – A fizzy addition that enhances the root beer flavor and makes the filling airy and light.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A subtle flavor enhancer that rounds out the sweetness of the root beer.
- 1 cup whipped topping – This adds a light, airy texture to the filling.
For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup root beer soda (for topping) – Adds a fizzy finish to your pie.
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish – The perfect colorful, cherry-on-top finishing touch.
How to Make Creamy Root Beer Float Pie
Making this root beer float pie is a breeze, and the steps are simple enough for even a beginner baker to tackle. Here’s how to do it:
1. Prepare the Crust
If you’re using a store-bought graham cracker crust, simply set it aside. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous and want to make your own crust, follow these easy steps:
- Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs. You can do this by hand in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin or use a food processor for quicker results.
- Combine the crumbs with melted butter and stir until well coated. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
- Bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Then, let it cool completely before filling it with the root beer mixture.
2. Make the Filling
The filling is what really brings the root beer float flavor to life, so make sure you get this part just right:
- Beat the cream cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. It should have a light texture with no lumps.
- Add the liquids: Slowly pour in the heavy whipping cream, root beer concentrate, root beer soda, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth.
3. Fold in the Whipped Topping
To create that signature fluffy texture, gently fold in the whipped topping. This gives the filling its light, airy consistency, similar to the foam on top of a root beer float. Be sure to fold the topping in gently so as not to deflate the whipped cream.
4. Assemble the Pie
Now that the filling is ready, it’s time to put the pie together:
- Pour the filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Smooth the top to create a neat, even layer. You want the filling to be perfectly level so each slice looks beautiful.
5. Chill the Pie
Once the pie is assembled, it’s time to give it some time to set:
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight. This chilling time ensures the pie firms up properly, making it easier to slice.
6. Garnish and Serve
Before serving, drizzle the remaining root beer soda over the top of the pie for an extra burst of flavor and a fun fizzy effect. Garnish with a maraschino cherry or two to make it look as good as it tastes.
Now, it’s time to slice and enjoy! The creamy filling and crispy crust make for the perfect bite of nostalgia.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Root Beer Float Pie
To ensure that your Creamy Root Beer Float Pie turns out as delicious as possible, here are a few pro tips:
- Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before you start mixing. This will prevent lumps in the filling and make it easier to beat into a smooth consistency.
- Chill the Pie: Don’t rush the chilling process. The longer you let the pie sit in the refrigerator, the firmer and better the texture will be. Overnight is best!
- Root Beer Soda: For a strong root beer flavor, opt for a high-quality root beer soda. The concentrate adds a punch of flavor, but the soda gives it that fizzy, refreshing taste.
- Whipped Topping: If you want to make this dessert extra indulgent, use a homemade whipped cream topping instead of store-bought whipped topping for a richer, fresher taste.
Why This Creamy Root Beer Float Pie is the Perfect Summer Dessert
This Creamy Root Beer Float Pie is a showstopper that combines a favorite childhood flavor with the refreshing qualities of summer. The root beer flavor is nostalgic, the texture is creamy and airy, and the whole pie is a delight to the senses. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a simple treat to enjoy on a warm evening, this pie is guaranteed to bring smiles all around.
Ideal for Any Occasion
What’s great about this recipe is its versatility. It’s perfect for a variety of occasions:
- Summer BBQs: Serve this refreshing dessert at your next BBQ, and watch it disappear in no time.
- Holiday Gatherings: A fun twist on traditional holiday desserts, this pie makes for a unique and memorable treat.
- Family Fun: Get the kids involved in the kitchen and let them help fold in the whipped topping or decorate the pie with cherries.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Root Beer Float Pie Recipe
In conclusion, the Creamy Root Beer Float Pie is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that will have everyone reminiscing about root beer floats from their childhood. With its smooth, creamy filling, crispy graham cracker crust, and fizzy root beer flavor, this pie is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or as a fun treat for a casual evening, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser.
So why not give it a try? Get started with these simple ingredients and watch as you create a dessert that everyone will love. You’ll be glad you did!
Pin it for Later!
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to pin it to your favorite dessert board. It’s a fun and easy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy baking (or no-baking!) and enjoy your creamy, fizzy root beer float pie!
PrintCreamy Root Beer Float Pie
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (chill time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Picture a warm summer evening with a cold root beer float in hand—now, imagine that iconic flavor transformed into a creamy, no-bake pie. This Creamy Root Beer Float Pie is a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a family gathering, a barbecue, or just a cozy evening at home, this pie brings all the fun of a root beer float in a new, shareable form. It’s light, fizzy, and irresistibly sweet.
Ingredients
1 graham cracker crust (9-inch)
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup root beer concentrate
1/2 cup root beer soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whipped topping
1/4 cup root beer soda (for topping)
Maraschino cherries, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: If using a store-bought graham cracker crust, simply set it aside. If making your own, combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter and press into a pie dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, then cool completely.
- Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add liquids: Slowly add the heavy whipping cream, root beer concentrate, root beer soda, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined and smooth.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping to create a light, fluffy filling.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the root beer filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the pie is set and firm.
- Garnish: Before serving, drizzle the remaining root beer soda over the top of the pie and garnish with maraschino cherries.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy the creamy, fizzy treat!
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Chill the pie for at least 4 hours to allow it to set properly before serving.
- You can make the graham cracker crust from scratch or use a store-bought one for convenience.
- For extra indulgence, use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (if making your own crust)