I absolutely adore this recipe because it combines the nostalgic comfort of a graham cracker crust with the creamy, tangy twist of Greek yogurt, making it the perfect updated treat for a millennial sweet tooth. Plus, it’s a no-bake wonder that lets me indulge in a deliciously chilled dessert without breaking a sweat in the kitchen—ideal for impressing friends at a casual get-together!
I savor creating outcomes that are both luxurious and revitalizing, and my Extra Creamy Yogurt Pie is just that. The bottom layer is formed from graham cracker crumbs, which have been transformed from their original state with the umami punch of toasted nuts, brown sugar, and the butter that binds them.
The top layer is fresh, light, and airy. This is perfect, then, for a summer barbecue where you want to stay with your pants on and not ghost in the desert of personal space that is the humid, 88-degree Fahrenheit overhang.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crumbs:
A crunchy crust is provided, one that is rich in carbohydrates.
Granulated Sugar:
Contributes to the total carbohydrate content; adds sweetness.
Unsalted Butter:
Imparts depth and nuance; holds lipids.
Plain Greek Yogurt:
Delivers richness and sharpness; full of protein.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix:
Imparts taste and mouthfeel; supplies sweetness and provides body.
Whole Milk:
Provides a smooth, rich texture; yields a protein-packed, calcium-rich, and healthful milk.
Heavy Whipping Cream:
Adds to the variety; contains a high concentration of fats.
Powdered Sugar:
Sweetens and smoothens; dissolves easily in powdered form.
Vanilla Extract:
Enriches taste; contributes perfumed sweetness.
Ingredient Quantities
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- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1 package (3.9 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Instructions
1. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C); it is the first thing to do and the only operation for which a form of imperative is used.
2. In a mixing bowl, blend the crumbs of graham crackers with the sugar. Stir in the liquid butter until the mixture is a cohesive mass that resembles wet sand, though you will have to do a little work with the utensils to get it there.
3. Pack the crumb mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.
4. In a big bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and instant pudding mix. Add the milk very slowly, whisking all the while until it is smooth and thick. This will take a few minutes, so don’t rush. When it is finished, set it aside.
5. Use an electric mixer to whip the heavy chilled cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together in another bowl until they reach the stiff peaks stage.
6. The yogurt mixture should have the whipped cream folded into it when it is fully whipped. The amount of whipped cream you use should be just enough to ensure a light, fluffy, and well-combined mixture. If you can do this and have the cream not deflate in the process, you are good to go.
7. The filling should be poured into the graham cracker crust that has cooled. Immediately after the filling is poured in, a spatula should be used to spread it evenly throughout the inside of the crust.
8. Place the pie in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours or, for best results, overnight. The pie must be covered with either plastic wrap or foil to ensure it sets correctly.
9. After setting, take the pie from the refrigerator. If you want, you can garnish it with more whipped cream or fresh fruit right before serving.
10. Cut the pie and serve it chilled, savoring its extra creamy texture and very refreshing flavor.
Equipment Needed
1. Oven
2. Mixing bowls (at least 3)
3. Pie dish (9-inch)
4. Whisk
5. Electric mixer
6. Measuring cups and spoons
7. Spatula
8. Plastic wrap or aluminum foil
9. Knife or pie cutter
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of yogurt?Certainly! While Greek yogurt is recommended for its consistency, you may use a flavored variety for a different taste.
- Is there an alternative to graham cracker crumbs for the crust?Certainly! Crushed digestive biscuits or any other cookie crumbs may be used as a substitute.
- Can I make this pie gluten-free?Indeed, use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
- How long does the pie need to chill?Chilling the pie for a minimum of 4 hours, or even better, overnight, is the best way to guarantee that the pie will have the necessary firmness when it is served.
- Can this pie be made ahead of time?Without a doubt, you can make it as much as 2 days in advance. Just keep it chilling in the fridge until it’s time to serve it.
- Is there a non-dairy alternative for the milk and cream?It is possible to use coconut milk and coconut cream for a non-dairy version, but it is likely to change the flavor a smidge.
- How do I store leftovers?Wrap the pie in plastic or store slice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Substitutions and Variations
Replace graham cracker crumbs in the recipe with crushed digestive biscuits for a different crust texture.
Substitute brown sugar for white sugar to achieve a greater depth of flavor and a sweetness reminiscent of a richly caramelized, dark sauce.
For a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt instead of replacing Greek yogurt.
Replace whole milk with almond milk to make it lactose-free.
Substitute heavy whipping cream with coconut cream for a non-dairy alternative.
Pro Tips
1. Graham Cracker Crust Tip: For an even more flavorful crust, add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to the graham cracker crumb and sugar mixture before adding the butter. This will give the crust an aromatic boost.
2. Greek Yogurt Mixture Tip: To enhance the flavor of the yogurt and pudding filling, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or a few drops of lemon juice. This will give the filling a refreshing tang that complements the creamy texture.
3. Whipped Cream Stability Tip: To ensure your whipped cream maintains its structure, make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are well chilled before whipping the cream. You can also add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the powdered sugar to help stabilize the whipped cream.
4. Assembly Tip: When folding the whipped cream into the yogurt mixture, use a large spatula and gently fold in a figure-eight motion. This preserves the airiness of the whipped cream and ensures a light and fluffy texture in the filling.
5. Garnishing Tip: For a visually appealing finish, consider garnishing the pie with a mix of fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. You can also sprinkle a bit of chocolate shavings or chopped nuts on top for added texture and flavor.
Extra Creamy Yogurt Pie Recipe
My favorite Extra Creamy Yogurt Pie Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Oven
2. Mixing bowls (at least 3)
3. Pie dish (9-inch)
4. Whisk
5. Electric mixer
6. Measuring cups and spoons
7. Spatula
8. Plastic wrap or aluminum foil
9. Knife or pie cutter
Ingredients:
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- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1 package (3.9 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
“`
Instructions:
1. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C); it is the first thing to do and the only operation for which a form of imperative is used.
2. In a mixing bowl, blend the crumbs of graham crackers with the sugar. Stir in the liquid butter until the mixture is a cohesive mass that resembles wet sand, though you will have to do a little work with the utensils to get it there.
3. Pack the crumb mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.
4. In a big bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and instant pudding mix. Add the milk very slowly, whisking all the while until it is smooth and thick. This will take a few minutes, so don’t rush. When it is finished, set it aside.
5. Use an electric mixer to whip the heavy chilled cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together in another bowl until they reach the stiff peaks stage.
6. The yogurt mixture should have the whipped cream folded into it when it is fully whipped. The amount of whipped cream you use should be just enough to ensure a light, fluffy, and well-combined mixture. If you can do this and have the cream not deflate in the process, you are good to go.
7. The filling should be poured into the graham cracker crust that has cooled. Immediately after the filling is poured in, a spatula should be used to spread it evenly throughout the inside of the crust.
8. Place the pie in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours or, for best results, overnight. The pie must be covered with either plastic wrap or foil to ensure it sets correctly.
9. After setting, take the pie from the refrigerator. If you want, you can garnish it with more whipped cream or fresh fruit right before serving.
10. Cut the pie and serve it chilled, savoring its extra creamy texture and very refreshing flavor.
