Raw Birthday Pie

An explosion of flavors in this succulent ice cream pie!

Last night I made a birthday pie for someone very special. Someone that has helped me and changed my life in so many positive ways. Someone that has won the hearts of both myself and my son.

Unfortunately while traveling to the birthday dinner, the ice cream melted, "Bummers," as my son would say. However the taste was so incredible that it didn't matter that it was served by spoonfuls rather than slices.

The birthday boy himself had told me his idea of the perfect pie while traveling last week. So as a surprise I threw this together for him. We have decided to do another trial run of it for a prettier picture. And of course what an excuse to eat more pie!

Here's how you can make your own:

Crust: Grind 2-1/2 cups of local pecans in a food processor using the s-blade. Transfer to a bowl and then add agave until wet and slightly sticky. (It's your preference how sticky and sweet you want it to be but I used about 1/4 cup)

Ice Cream: Blend the following ingredients in a high-speed blender such as a Vita-Mix until creamy: 2 cups raw cashews, (must soak 4 hours or more), 2 cups coconut meat, 1/2 cup agave nectar, 1/3 cup grade B maple syrup, 1/4 cup coconut butter, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, seeds from 1 vanilla bean.

Marinated Strawberries: Slice 3/4 pound of strawberries in the food processor using slicing disc. You may either use the berries just like this or if you prefer your treats extra sweet, stir in agave -- just until wet. Don't over do it! A 1/4 cup should be the max!

Assembly instructions: Set your intention for LOVE! Always make food in a loving space and it will nourish you more and will taste better!

First press the crust into a deep dish pie pan and set in the freezer as you make the ice cream. Next spoon in ice cream, spread evenly and pop back in the freezer for a minimum of 3 hours. Marinate berries and keep them cold. When it's time to serve, pile on the berries as your second layer.

Serving tip from the birthday boy: Hold your knife under running hot water prior to cutting so it will glide ride through, making a picture perfect slice!

Serves 6