No Bake Dulce de Leche Pie

When it comes to desserts that deliver an explosion of flavor with minimal effort, No Bake Dulce de Leche Pie takes the crown. This creamy, decadent pie is all about rich layers and delightful textures, from the buttery graham cracker crust to the luscious filling, topped with a drizzle of chocolate or hot fudge. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this pie is sure to impress without heating up your kitchen.

The Upside of No Bake Dulce de Leche Pie

One of the best parts of this No Bake Dulce de Leche Pie is its simplicity. Without the need for baking, you can whip this up in no time, making it a fantastic option for busy days or last-minute gatherings. The creaminess of the filling combined with the sweet and slightly caramel flavor of dulce de leche creates a harmonious dessert that is both satisfying and ridiculously delicious. Plus, you can prepare it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully in the fridge. Who doesn’t love a dessert that does the heavy lifting for you?

What You’ll Need

• 19-inch graham cracker crust (from scratch or from the store)
• 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup (79ml) heavy whipping cream
• 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1 cup dulce de leche (room temperature, from scratch or the store)
• ½ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 18 ounce container Cool Whip (regular, light, or fat-free)
• ½ cup hot fudge sauce OR
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Mixing Bowls – You’ll need a few for mixing different components.
• Electric Mixer – For creamy, fluffy filling.
• Rubber Spatula – Perfect for folding in the Cool Whip.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accuracy is key in baking.
• Pie Dish – To hold your beautiful No Bake Dulce de Leche Pie.

Cook No Bake Dulce de Leche Pie Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

If you’re making your own graham cracker crust, crush the graham crackers in a food processor until finely ground. Mix them with melted butter and press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. If you’re using a store-bought crust, simply remove it from the packaging and set aside.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and ½ cup of heavy whipping cream. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until fluffy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and dulce de leche, continuing to mix until well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Fold in the Cool Whip

Gently fold in the Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula until there are no streaks left. This will give your pie a light and airy texture.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Spread half of the cream cheese mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust. Drizzle half of the melted chocolate over the filling. Spoon the remaining cream cheese mixture on top, smoothing it out. Finish with a drizzle of the remaining melted chocolate on top.

Step 6: Chill the Pie

Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow it to set properly.

Step 7: Serve with Toppings

Before serving, you can drizzle hot fudge sauce or melt some extra semi-sweet chocolate chips with a tablespoon of heavy whipping cream for a rich topping. Serve slices of the No Bake Dulce de Leche Pie chilled and enjoy!

Substitutions by Diet

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream in place of Cool Whip.
• Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free graham crackers or a gluten-free crust.
• Low-Sugar: Use sugar substitutes in place of granulated sugar and a sugar-free Cool Whip.
• Vegan: Use vegan cream cheese and a plant-based whipping cream alternative.

Avoid These Mistakes

• Not letting the cream cheese soften to room temperature can lead to a lumpy filling.
• Skipping the chilling time will result in a pie that doesn’t set properly.
• Overmixing the Cool Whip can deflate the light and airy texture.
• Using warm chocolate in the filling can cause the Cool Whip to melt and lose its volume.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

The No Bake Dulce de Leche Pie needs to be chilled for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for a firmer texture. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This pie is best enjoyed cold, and it doesn’t require reheating, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert!

Ask & Learn

Can I use homemade dulce de leche?

Absolutely! Homemade dulce de leche adds a personal touch and can enhance the flavor of the pie. Just ensure it’s at room temperature before mixing it into the filling.

How can I make a chocolate graham cracker crust?

Simply substitute some of the graham cracker crumbs with cocoa powder, or use chocolate graham crackers instead. It adds a delicious chocolate flavor to complement the filling!

Can I freeze this pie?

Yes, you can freeze No Bake Dulce de Leche Pie! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

What can I use instead of Cool Whip?

You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream. Just whip heavy cream until soft peaks form and use it in place of the Cool Whip for a fresh alternative.

Weekend Projects

• Sally’s Baking Addiction – Discover more delightful dessert recipes.
• Pinch of Yum – Explore quick and easy meal ideas and desserts.
• Minimalist Baker – Find simple, delicious, and mostly gluten-free recipes.

Final Bite

Indulging in a slice of No Bake Dulce de Leche Pie is like wrapping yourself in a warm, sweet hug. With its creamy filling, rich flavor, and easy preparation, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or treating yourself on a cozy night in, this pie is guaranteed to be a showstopper. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to impress everyone with this delightful no-bake treat!