Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie
Indulging in a slice of Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie is like diving into a blissful summer day. With its creamy texture paired with juicy, fresh strawberries, this dessert is the perfect way to satisfy a sweet craving. Each bite is a delightful blend of tangy cream cheese and the vibrant sweetness of strawberry topping, evoking memories of grandma’s kitchen and family gatherings under the sun. It’s quick to make and kid-friendly, ensuring that everyone gets to join in on the fun. Trust me, this is a recipe worth adding to your dessert repertoire!
Are you ready to dive into a sweet symphony of flavors?
When was the last time you enjoyed a dessert that made you feel like a kid again, with the thrill of a sweet treat warming your heart? Picture a luscious cream cheese filling, topped with a vibrant berry compote, all resting on a crumbly graham cracker crust. Isn’t your mouth watering already? Let’s create a moment where indulgence meets nostalgia!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie offers a cornucopia of benefits that make it irresistible:
- Easy Prep: With minimal hands-on time, you can whip this pie up and let it do the chilling, freeing you for other fun activities.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its vibrant colors and delicious flavors will delight guests at any gathering.
- Minimal Ingredients: You won’t need any fancy ingredients or equipment, making it accessible to novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.
- Nostalgic Touch: The combination of strawberries and cream cheese is reminiscent of warm family gatherings and sunny picnics.
Ingredients
Let’s gather what we need for this blissful pie:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: For that perfect crunchy base.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetening the crust.
- 6 tablespoons melted butter: Bringing it all together with richness.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The luxurious filling that everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: For just the right amount of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adding depth to the creaminess.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold: Ensuring a dreamy texture.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved: Bursting with fresh flavor.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: For the luscious topping.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helping to thicken our strawberry mix.
- 1/2 cup water: To create that gooey goodness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightening up the flavors.
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons strawberry jam: For an even sweeter touch.
Each ingredient is carefully chosen to create a dessert experience that’s both decadent and wholesome.
Timing
Got a sweet tooth but short on time? This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie is your answer!
Preparing this pie is a balance of quick and simple prep with some patient chilling time. You can have it ready in about 30 minutes, but it’s best when chilled for 3 to 4 hours, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
If you prefer taking your time, let the pie chill overnight to achieve an even richer flavor — a small act of indulgence for a big reward!
Step-by-Step
Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until everything is combined and the mixture resembles wet sand, inviting you to dig in!
Then, press this crumbly goodness firmly into a 9-inch pie dish. Ensure you cover the bottom evenly and form a slight wall along the edges, creating the perfect base for our luscious filling.
Now, refrigerate this while you prepare the other components.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
Get your electric mixer ready, as we’re about to whip up some heavenly creaminess!
Beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl until it’s smoothly blended. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, incorporating them into the mixture until it reaches a creamy, dreamy consistency.
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, resembling pillows of fluff.
Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture with gentle, sweeping motions until well combined. Spread this luscious filling evenly over your chilled crust, returning it to the fridge to set for a bit.
Make the Strawberry Topping
Now onto the star of the show: the strawberries!
In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water. Stir until smooth, then cook over medium heat while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and turns translucent. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes, and you’ll soon find yourself enraptured by the sweet aroma filling your kitchen.
Once thickened, remove it from heat and stir in lemon juice and optional strawberry jam. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes, then gently fold in the halved strawberries until their vibrant colors shine.
Assemble the Pie
Now it’s time for some pie magic! Spoon that creamy strawberry topping lovingly over your cream cheese filling, cascading the berries like jewels upon a silky crown.
Chill the assembled pie for at least 3 to 4 hours or overnight for the ultimate fruity delight.
Serve Garnish
When ready to serve, crown your pie with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of mint leaves, or a few extra strawberries for an Instagram-worthy presentation. Slice, serve, and watch those smiles bloom!
Nutritional Information
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie is a decadent treat that offers a delightful escape from everyday meals.
While the temperature of indulgence can vary, each slice roughly contains around 350-400 calories, so enjoy it occasionally without guilt.
This pie is worth every calorie when you experience the burst of flavors in your mouth!
Healthier Alternatives
Want a lighter version without sacrificing flavor? Try these swaps:
- Low-sugar substitutes: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener in place of granulated sugar to lessen the sweetness without losing taste.
- Dairy-free options: Substitute cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and coconut cream for the whipped topping.
These alternatives can help you enjoy the pie without compromising your health goals.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert is incredibly versatile!
It’s perfect for summer picnics or as a refreshing finish to holiday dinners. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even sweeter experience.
You could also serve it at birthday celebrations or special gatherings, where its vibrant colors are sure to impress your guests!
Common Mistakes
Even the best bakers can make mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Overbaking the crust: Make sure to keep an eye on it while chilling to ensure it remains crispy without burning.
- Texture Issues: Avoid lumps in the cream cheese filling by ensuring it’s well-softened before mixing.
- Messy Assembly: For cleaner layers, allow each component to cool before assembling.
Being mindful during preparation can prevent small mishaps and lead to a flawless pie!
Storing Tips
Wondering how to preserve your creation?
- Freezing portions: You can freeze leftover pie for later enjoyment! Cut it into slices, wrap them well, and store in airtight containers in the freezer up to three months.
- Reheating instructions: To enjoy it again, simply thaw slices in the fridge overnight, and serve chilled for the best flavor.
Tempting Finish
You’re just a few ingredients away from enjoying a slice of heaven with this Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie!
Make it this week and experience the brimming comfort and joy it’ll bring to your table. Don’t wait too long — your taste buds are ready for a delightful escape into a world of flavors!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but the texture may be a little different. Thaw and drain the excess liquid before use.
2. How long can leftovers be kept?
Stored properly in the fridge, leftovers can last for about 3-4 days.
3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for prepping a day in advance. Just leave it chilling until you’re ready to serve.
4. Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?
Yes, you can substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives, such as crushed gluten-free cookies.
5. How can I make the pie sweeter?
Feel free to adjust the sugar in the filling or strawberry sauce according to your preference.
Enjoy your baking adventure! 🍰
Print
Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie
- Total Time: 240 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent dessert featuring a creamy filling paired with fresh strawberries on a crunchy graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons strawberry jam
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until combined, then press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish. Refrigerate.
- Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy.
- Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture. Spread the filling over the chilled crust.
- In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and optional jam. Cool slightly, then fold in strawberries.
- Spoon the strawberry topping over the cream cheese filling. Chill the pie for 3-4 hours or overnight.
- Serve with whipped cream and additional strawberries if desired.
Notes
For a lighter version, consider using low-sugar substitutes or dairy-free alternatives. Leftover pie can be frozen for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
