What is Kool-Aid Pie?
Ah, Kool-Aid. That neon-bright, sticky-sweet drink mix was the ultimate thirst quencher of every ’80s and ’90s kid’s childhood. We’d beg our parents to make us pitcher after pitcher of that super sugary, fruit-punchy goodness all summer long.
These days, the flavors of Tropical Punch, Cherry, and Lemon-Lime still possess the power to instantly transport us back to those carefree, sun-drenched days of riding bikes for hours, playing outdoors until well past dark, and pretty much living in a swimsuit.
While the drink itself was pure bliss, this crazy easy Kool-Aid Pie manages to capture all those nostalgic flavors in an airy, creamy chilled dessert form. Made by simply mixing a packet of powdered Kool-Aid into sweetened condensed milk and whipped topping, it’s the stuff kids’ dreams are made of.
The vibrant, slightly tangy filling sets up beautifully in a graham cracker crust, creating a creamy, fresh pie experience with a major nostalgic kick. It’s fun, it’s playful, it’s a total blast of sweet, fruity sunshine in every bite!
How to Make the Kool-Aid Pie
This pie is so ridiculously simple, the kids could practically make it themselves. It’s practically no-bake!
Simply fold together some sweetened condensed milk with thawed whipped topping until nice and smooth. Then, dump in your favorite packet of Kool-Aid drink mix (I prefer the classic Tropical Punch for that signature punchy flavor).
Keep folding until the powder is fully dissolved and the mixture is a vivid, uniform color throughout. Then, pour that bright filling right into a pre-made graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top into an even layer.
That’s literally it! Just cover the pie and let it do its thing in the fridge for 2-3 hours until completely set. After chilling, you can serve it up with a dollop of whipped cream on top for a gorgeous sweet-tart contrast.
Ingredients in Kool-Aid Pie
You just need a few basic ingredients to make this nostalgic no-bake pie:
- Sweetened condensed milk: This thick, rich cooking milk is the base that gives the filling its luscious creamy texture and sweetness.
- Whipped topping: Using a tub of frozen whipped topping helps create that light, airy texture. You can also make your own whipped cream if preferred.
- Kool-Aid powder: The star ingredient! One little packet delivers an amazingly concentrated fruity punch flavor. Use any variety you like – Tropical Punch, Cherry, Lemonade, etc.
- Graham cracker crust: A store-bought graham crust couldn’t be easier and adds the perfect nostalgic, crispy contrast.
- Whipped cream: For dolloping over the top and around the edges when serving. Totally optional but really makes it pop!
FAQ
Should Kool-Aid pie be served chilled?
Yes, for cleanest slicing you’ll want to serve this pie straight from the fridge. It can also be frozen for more of an ice cream pie texture.
Can I make a Kool-Aid pie with two flavors?
Absolutely! Try swirling two different flavors together or layering them in the crust for a really fun, colorful pie. Just divide the ingredients in half for each flavor.
How do you cut clean slices?
Dip your knife into hot water or run it under hot tap water and wipe the blade clean between each cut. This will give you nice, neat slices.
Storing Instructions
This pie can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to serve. Simply hold off on adding any whipped cream garnish until just before serving.
For longer storage, the pie can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before slicing and topping with whipped cream.
Leftover slices will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.
Kool-Aid Pie
Ingredients
- 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 8 oz tub frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1 0.23 oz packet Kool-Aid drink mix (any flavor like Tropical Punch, Cherry, Lemonade etc)
- 1 6 oz pre-made graham cracker pie crust
- Whipped cream for garnish optional
Instructions
- In a large bowl, gently fold together the sweetened condensed milk and whipped topping until fully combined and smooth.
- Pour in the Kool-Aid powder and continue folding until completely dissolved and the filling is a vivid, uniform color throughout.
- Transfer the filling to the graham cracker pie crust and use a spatula to smooth it into an even layer.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until completely set.
- Once set, slice and serve the pie chilled or frozen, dolloping each slice with whipped cream if desired.
This fun, nostalgic Kool-Aid pie is guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike! Those bright, fresh fruity flavors and creamy chilled texture are pure summertime bliss in each bite.
