Frozen Margarita Pie

Frozen Margarita Pie is a bright and zesty no-bake dessert that delivers all the tangy flavor of a classic margarita in a smooth and creamy frozen pie. With a salty-sweet pretzel crust and a lime-infused filling spiked with tequila and triple sec, it’s the perfect refreshing treat for summer parties, Cinco de Mayo, or a unique dinner finale.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No-Bake and Easy: Just mix, freeze, and serve—no oven required.
  • Cool and Refreshing: Perfect for warm weather with its chilled, citrusy flavor.
  • Margarita-Inspired: Real tequila and triple sec give it authentic cocktail flavor.
  • Crowd Favorite: A fun and unique dessert that guests will remember.
  • Make Ahead: Store in the freezer and serve when ready—great for entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

  • 5 oz salted pretzels, finely crushed
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 1½ tablespoons tequila
  • 1 tablespoon triple sec (or orange liqueur)

Directions

  1. Make the Crust
    Combine crushed pretzels, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Stir until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Freeze while you prepare the filling.
  2. Prepare the Filling
    In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. In a separate bowl, mix together sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, zest, tequila, and triple sec. Gently fold the whipped cream into the lime mixture until fully combined.
  3. Assemble and Freeze
    Pour the filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top. Freeze for at least 6 hours, or overnight, until firm.
  4. Serve
    Let the pie sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra lime zest or slices if desired.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 8
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Freezing Time: 6 hours
  • Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes

Variations

  • Alcohol-Free: Omit tequila and triple sec. Add 2 more tablespoons lime juice and a bit of orange juice for flavor.
  • Graham Cracker Crust: Use graham cracker crumbs instead of pretzels for a sweeter crust.
  • Mini Pies: Make individual servings in muffin tins lined with cupcake papers.
  • Coconut Twist: Add 1–2 tablespoons cream of coconut to the filling for a tropical variation.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Keep frozen, tightly covered, for up to 1 week.
  • Serving: Let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature before slicing for easier serving.
  • Do Not Reheat: This is a frozen dessert and should remain cold until serving.

FAQs

Can I make this pie without alcohol?

Yes, just leave out the tequila and triple sec and replace them with lime and orange juice.

Does the alcohol prevent it from freezing?

No, the small amount of alcohol doesn’t affect the freezing. The pie still sets firmly.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is best for flavor, but bottled will work in a pinch.

How long does it need to freeze?

At least 6 hours, but overnight is ideal for a firm, sliceable pie.

Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy cream?

Yes, 2 cups of thawed whipped topping can replace whipped cream, but the texture will be slightly different.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, it’s an excellent make-ahead dessert. Freeze and keep covered until ready to serve.

Will the pretzel crust get soggy?

Not if the pie is kept frozen and served promptly after slicing.

Can I use another kind of crust?

Absolutely. Graham cracker or vanilla wafer crusts are also great options.

Is this pie safe for kids?

Not if it contains alcohol. Make the non-alcoholic version for a family-friendly option.

How should I garnish the pie?

Try lime wedges, zest, whipped cream, or even a pinch of coarse salt for a margarita-style rim.

Conclusion

Frozen Margarita Pie is a fun and flavorful twist on traditional desserts—cold, creamy, and full of tangy lime and subtle tequila notes. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a cool treat on a hot day, this no-bake pie is an effortless yet impressive dessert that’s bound to become a summer staple.

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Frozen Margarita Pie

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Frozen Margarita Pie is a cool and creamy no-bake dessert with a tangy lime flavor and a hint of tequila, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for summer gatherings and Cinco de Mayo celebrations.

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes (includes freezing)
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec)
  • 2 tablespoons tequila (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • Lime slices and whipped cream, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Freeze for 10–15 minutes while preparing the filling.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, orange liqueur, tequila (if using), and lime zest until smooth.
  3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks using an electric mixer.
  4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the lime mixture until fully incorporated.
  5. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top.
  6. Freeze the pie for at least 6 hours or overnight until firm.
  7. Before serving, let sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes to soften slightly. Garnish with whipped cream and lime slices if desired.

Notes

  • For a non-alcoholic version, omit the tequila and orange liqueur and add extra lime juice or orange juice.
  • Use a store-bought graham cracker crust to save time.
  • Chill your mixing bowl and beaters for best results when whipping cream.
  • Store leftovers in the freezer for up to one week.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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