Kool-Aid Pie is a fun, fruity no-bake dessert that’s creamy, colorful, and bursting with flavor. With just a few ingredients and almost no prep time, I can whip up a chilled treat that’s perfect for warm days, potlucks, or anytime I’m craving something sweet and tangy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how incredibly easy this pie is to make. I don’t need to turn on the oven, and it comes together in minutes. The flavor possibilities are endless depending on the Kool-Aid packet I choose, and the texture is smooth and fluffy like a mousse. It’s a great make-ahead dessert that always grabs attention thanks to its vibrant color and fun twist on a classic cream pie.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 packet (.19 ounces) Kool-Aid powder (any flavor)
- 1 (8-ounce) tub whipped topping, thawed
- 1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust
- 2 tablespoons strawberry syrup (optional, for added flavor and color)
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, I whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and Kool-Aid powder until smooth. I stir in the strawberry syrup here if I’m using it for an extra pop of flavor.
- I gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light, fluffy, and evenly colored.
- I spoon the filling into the graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- I cover the pie and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Once firm, I slice and serve. Sometimes I top it with extra whipped cream or fresh fruit for a little extra flair.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Variations
- Flavor Fun: I like using cherry, lemonade, blue raspberry, or tropical punch for totally different results.
- Cookie Crusts: Sometimes I swap the graham cracker crust for an Oreo or vanilla wafer crust to change the base flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Adding a bit of lemon or lime zest to the filling brightens up the taste.
- Lighter Version: I use light whipped topping and sugar-free Kool-Aid for a lower-calorie option.
- Tropical Twist: Pineapple Kool-Aid with a few chunks of pineapple stirred in makes it super refreshing.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: I keep the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: I sometimes freeze the pie for up to 1 month. It’s great served slightly frozen too.
- Reheating: No reheating needed—this dessert is meant to be served cold.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes, I’ve made it with homemade whipped cream. I just make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks to hold the structure of the pie.
Does it really need to chill for 4 hours?
Yes, chilling is important to let the filling set properly. I usually make it in the morning or the night before serving.
Can I make mini versions?
Definitely. I spoon the filling into mini graham cracker crusts for personal-sized pies—great for parties or lunchbox treats.
Will this work with other drink mixes?
I’ve used other powdered drink mixes like Crystal Light and it still works well—just be sure to adjust for flavor strength.
How do I keep it from being too sweet?
If I want to reduce the sweetness, I use a tart flavor like lemonade and skip the strawberry syrup. A little citrus zest also balances it nicely.
Conclusion
Kool-Aid Pie is a quick, cheerful dessert that always brings a little surprise to the table. It’s creamy, colorful, and full of fruity flavor—and it couldn’t be easier to make. I love how I can mix and match flavors depending on the season or mood. Whether I’m making it for a picnic or just want something fun in the fridge, this pie is always a winner.
Print
Kool-Aid Pie
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Kool-Aid Pie is a no-bake, fruity dessert made with just four ingredients: Kool-Aid, sweetened condensed milk, whipped topping, and a graham cracker crust. This easy, colorful pie is creamy, refreshing, and bursting with nostalgic flavor—perfect for summer gatherings or quick treats.
Ingredients
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 packet (.19 ounces) Kool-Aid powder (any flavor)
- 1 (8-ounce) tub whipped topping, thawed
- 1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust
- 2 tablespoons strawberry syrup (optional, for added flavor and color)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and Kool-Aid powder until smooth. Stir in strawberry syrup, if using.
- Gently fold in whipped topping until fully combined and fluffy.
- Spoon mixture into prepared graham cracker crust and smooth the top.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Slice and serve chilled. Top with extra whipped cream or fruit, if desired.
Notes
- Use any Kool-Aid flavor for custom colors and taste.
- Oreo crust or vanilla wafer crusts make fun variations.
- Add lemon or lime zest for brightness.
- For a lighter version, use sugar-free Kool-Aid and light whipped topping.
- Mini crusts make perfect personal-sized treats.
