There’s something undeniably delightful about a dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the creamy richness of cream cheese, all encased in a buttery graham cracker crust. Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie is the perfect no-bake dessert, making it ideal for summertime when you want to avoid turning on the oven. This pie is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, offering a burst of fresh strawberry flavor in every bite. Let’s dive into the details of creating this delectable Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this luscious pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups (126 g) graham cracker crumbs: About 10-12 crushed graham cracker sheets provide the base of the crust.
- ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crumbs together and adds a rich, buttery flavor.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 6 cups (996 g) fresh strawberries, cleaned, quartered, divided: The star ingredient, providing fresh, juicy sweetness.
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the strawberry topping.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps thicken the strawberry sauce.
- 1 tablespoon water: Aids in dissolving the cornstarch.
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened: Provides a rich, creamy base.
- ½ cup (62.5 g) confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling without graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1 cup (238 g) heavy whipping cream: Whips up to add lightness and creaminess to the filling.
For Serving:
- Whipped cream: Adds a light, airy touch to each serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Crust
- Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Ensure that every crumb is well coated with butter, which helps bind the crust together.
- Form the Crust: Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press the crumbs firmly and evenly, creating a solid base for your pie. Set the crust aside while you prepare the strawberry topping and cream cheese filling.
Making the Strawberry Topping
- Cook the Strawberries: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine 2 cups of the quartered strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook, stirring often, until the sugar dissolves, the strawberries break down, and the mixture begins to thicken. This process should take about 15-20 minutes. You may need to mash the strawberries slightly with a fork or potato masher to help them break down.
- Thicken the Sauce: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Cook for 1 minute, then remove the saucepan from the heat. Transfer the strawberry sauce to a heat-proof bowl and let it cool while you prepare the cream cheese filling.
Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a small bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This step ensures that the filling is well combined and free of lumps.
- Add the Whipping Cream: Add the heavy whipping cream to the cream cheese mixture. Continue beating until the mixture is thick, smooth, and creamy. The whipped cream lightens the filling and adds a luxurious texture.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
Final Assembly
- Add the Fresh Strawberries: Once the strawberry topping has cooled completely, stir in the remaining 4 cups of quartered strawberries. This adds fresh strawberry chunks to the topping, enhancing both the flavor and texture.
- Top the Pie: Pour the strawberry topping over the cream cheese filling, spreading it out evenly. The vibrant red topping contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling and golden crust.
- Chill the Pie: Serve the pie immediately with whipped cream, or chill it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
Serving and Storing
Serving Suggestions
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice adds a light, airy contrast to the rich cream cheese filling and sweet strawberry topping.
- With Fresh Strawberries: Garnish each slice with a few fresh strawberry slices for added freshness and visual appeal.
- With Mint Leaves: Add a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color and a hint of herbal flavor.
Storing the Pie
When storing the pie in the refrigerator, place it on a baking sheet to catch any juices that may spill over as the strawberries continue to release their juices. The pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other refrigerator odors.
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie
- Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries: The quality of your strawberries will directly impact the flavor of the pie. Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best results.
- Cool the Strawberry Topping: Ensure the strawberry topping is completely cooled before adding it to the cream cheese filling to prevent the filling from melting.
- Chill the Pie: Chilling the pie before serving helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice.
- Beat the Filling Thoroughly: Beat the cream cheese filling until it is completely smooth and creamy to avoid any lumps.
Variations to Try
- Mixed Berry Pie: Substitute some of the strawberries with other fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry version.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the pie for a decadent touch.
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a citrusy twist.
Nutritional Information
For those mindful of their dietary intake, here’s a brief nutritional breakdown per serving (based on an approximate serving size of one piece):
- Calories: 534 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 59g
- Sugars: 38g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
Conclusion
Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie is a delightful, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its buttery graham cracker crust, creamy and rich cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberry topping, this pie is both refreshing and indulgent. The combination of textures and flavors makes every bite a treat, and the simplicity of the recipe means you can enjoy it without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re making this pie for a summer gathering, a family dessert, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, it’s sure to impress. The ease of preparation and the delicious results make this Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie a go-to dessert recipe. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful treat, and savor each delicious bite. Happy baking!
There’s something undeniably delightful about a dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the creamy richness of cream cheese, all encased in a buttery graham cracker crust. Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie is the perfect no-bake dessert, making it ideal for summertime when you want to avoid turning on the oven. This pie is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, offering a burst of fresh strawberry flavor in every bite. Let’s dive into the details of creating this delectable Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this luscious pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups (126 g) graham cracker crumbs: About 10-12 crushed graham cracker sheets provide the base of the crust.
- ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crumbs together and adds a rich, buttery flavor.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 6 cups (996 g) fresh strawberries, cleaned, quartered, divided: The star ingredient, providing fresh, juicy sweetness.
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the strawberry topping.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps thicken the strawberry sauce.
- 1 tablespoon water: Aids in dissolving the cornstarch.
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened: Provides a rich, creamy base.
- ½ cup (62.5 g) confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling without graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1 cup (238 g) heavy whipping cream: Whips up to add lightness and creaminess to the filling.
For Serving:
- Whipped cream: Adds a light, airy touch to each serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Crust
- Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Ensure that every crumb is well coated with butter, which helps bind the crust together.
- Form the Crust: Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press the crumbs firmly and evenly, creating a solid base for your pie. Set the crust aside while you prepare the strawberry topping and cream cheese filling.
Making the Strawberry Topping
- Cook the Strawberries: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine 2 cups of the quartered strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook, stirring often, until the sugar dissolves, the strawberries break down, and the mixture begins to thicken. This process should take about 15-20 minutes. You may need to mash the strawberries slightly with a fork or potato masher to help them break down.
- Thicken the Sauce: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Cook for 1 minute, then remove the saucepan from the heat. Transfer the strawberry sauce to a heat-proof bowl and let it cool while you prepare the cream cheese filling.
Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a small bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This step ensures that the filling is well combined and free of lumps.
- Add the Whipping Cream: Add the heavy whipping cream to the cream cheese mixture. Continue beating until the mixture is thick, smooth, and creamy. The whipped cream lightens the filling and adds a luxurious texture.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
Final Assembly
- Add the Fresh Strawberries: Once the strawberry topping has cooled completely, stir in the remaining 4 cups of quartered strawberries. This adds fresh strawberry chunks to the topping, enhancing both the flavor and texture.
- Top the Pie: Pour the strawberry topping over the cream cheese filling, spreading it out evenly. The vibrant red topping contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling and golden crust.
- Chill the Pie: Serve the pie immediately with whipped cream, or chill it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
Serving and Storing
Serving Suggestions
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice adds a light, airy contrast to the rich cream cheese filling and sweet strawberry topping.
- With Fresh Strawberries: Garnish each slice with a few fresh strawberry slices for added freshness and visual appeal.
- With Mint Leaves: Add a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color and a hint of herbal flavor.
Storing the Pie
When storing the pie in the refrigerator, place it on a baking sheet to catch any juices that may spill over as the strawberries continue to release their juices. The pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other refrigerator odors.
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie
- Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries: The quality of your strawberries will directly impact the flavor of the pie. Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best results.
- Cool the Strawberry Topping: Ensure the strawberry topping is completely cooled before adding it to the cream cheese filling to prevent the filling from melting.
- Chill the Pie: Chilling the pie before serving helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice.
- Beat the Filling Thoroughly: Beat the cream cheese filling until it is completely smooth and creamy to avoid any lumps.
Variations to Try
- Mixed Berry Pie: Substitute some of the strawberries with other fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry version.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the pie for a decadent touch.
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a citrusy twist.
Nutritional Information
For those mindful of their dietary intake, here’s a brief nutritional breakdown per serving (based on an approximate serving size of one piece):
- Calories: 534 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 59g
- Sugars: 38g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
Conclusion
Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie is a delightful, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its buttery graham cracker crust, creamy and rich cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberry topping, this pie is both refreshing and indulgent. The combination of textures and flavors makes every bite a treat, and the simplicity of the recipe means you can enjoy it without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re making this pie for a summer gathering, a family dessert, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, it’s sure to impress. The ease of preparation and the delicious results make this Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie a go-to dessert recipe. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful treat, and savor each delicious bite. Happy baking!