Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie is a no-bake dessert that combines sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors into one irresistible bite. Starting with a buttery graham cracker crust, this pie is layered with a rich cream cheese filling and topped with a vibrant homemade strawberry glaze. It’s the perfect dessert for summer gatherings, family dinners, or any time you want something sweet without turning on the oven. With only 30 minutes of prep and a few hours of chill time, this pie is both easy to make and crowd-pleasing. Let’s dive into how to make it.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie
This pie is a dream come true for dessert lovers. It features a delightful contrast of textures, with a crunchy crust, velvety filling, and juicy strawberries on top. Best of all, it’s no-bake, making it ideal for hot days or quick dessert prep. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a treat to enjoy with family, this pie will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust
- 1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust
Strawberry Topping
- 5 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered (divided)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
Step-by-Step: How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie
- Cook the Strawberry Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 2 cups of the strawberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Heat on medium-low until the strawberries release their juices. Mash with a spoon or potato masher.
- Thicken the Glaze: Turn the heat up to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir continuously and boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Whip the Cream: In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture until fully blended.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the cream cheese filling evenly into the graham cracker crust. Set aside.
- Finish the Strawberry Topping: Stir the remaining 3 cups of fresh strawberries into the cooled glaze until fully coated. Spoon the topping over the cream cheese layer.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving to allow it to set completely.
Helpful Tips
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
- Chill your mixing bowls before whipping the cream for faster, fluffier peaks.
- If your strawberries are very sweet, reduce the sugar slightly.
- For neat, clean slices, warm your knife by dipping it in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut.
Substitutions And Variations
- Crust Options: Swap the graham cracker crust for a chocolate cookie crust or a shortbread base.
- Fruit Topping: Try blueberries, raspberries, or a mixed berry topping instead of just strawberries.
- Sweetener: Substitute honey or maple syrup for a more natural glaze.
- Dairy-Free option: Swap in dairy-free cream cheese and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Storage Instructions
Keep your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For best texture, avoid freezing, as the cream cheese filling may become grainy after thawing.
Nutritional Information
Each slice (based on 8 servings) contains approximately:
- Calories: 1203 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 78g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 92g
- Saturated Fat: 52g
- Cholesterol: 271mg
- Sodium: 406mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 59g
Please note these values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pie chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Garnish with mint leaves or extra sliced strawberries for a stunning presentation. It pairs beautifully with iced tea or lemonade on a sunny day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie
Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain them well before using.
Do I need to bake the crust? If you use a store-bought graham cracker crust, no baking is necessary. For a homemade crust, you can bake it for 10 minutes at 350°F to help it firm up, but it’s optional.
How long does it take to set? The pie needs at least 4 hours in the fridge to fully set, but overnight is even better for the best texture.
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely. This pie is perfect to make a day in advance. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for stopping by and giving this Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie recipe a try. I truly hope it brings a burst of fruity sweetness and creamy delight to your table. With its easy preparation, fresh flavors, and crowd-pleasing appeal, it’s one dessert you’ll turn to time and time again. Happy no-bake baking, and enjoy every delicious bite. I’m so glad you’re part of this food-loving community!
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Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie is a no-bake dessert layered with a graham cracker crust, creamy filling, and fresh strawberry topping. Easy to make and perfect for warm weather or holiday gatherings. Make it ahead and wow your guests!
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust
1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust
Strawberry Topping
5 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered (divided)
½ cup granulated sugar
1½ tablespoons cornstarch
3 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
Cream Cheese Filling
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Cook the Strawberry Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 2 cups of the strawberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Heat on medium-low until the strawberries release their juices. Mash with a spoon or potato masher.
- Thicken the Glaze: Turn the heat up to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir continuously and boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Whip the Cream: In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture until fully blended.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the cream cheese filling evenly into the graham cracker crust. Set aside.
- Finish the Strawberry Topping: Stir the remaining 3 cups of fresh strawberries into the cooled glaze until fully coated. Spoon the topping over the cream cheese layer.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving to allow it to set completely.
Notes
For the smoothest texture, use full-fat cream cheese.
Warm your knife in hot water and wipe between slices for clean cuts.
To make dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: Chill Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American