If you have a soft spot for desserts that feel like a warm hug on a plate, you are going to adore this Strawberries & Cream Pie Recipe. This beautiful pie brings together the perfect crunch of a golden graham cracker crust, the luscious richness of whipped cream and cream cheese, and the vibrant, juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries. It’s an effortlessly impressive treat that feels special yet is wonderfully simple to make, ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or just a well-deserved indulgence at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Strawberries & Cream Pie Recipe. Each component plays its part in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color that makes this dessert so inviting.
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: The crunchy base that provides a buttery and slightly sweet foundation for the pie.
- ¼ cup sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the crust.
- 6 tbsp melted butter: Binds the crust crumbs together while enriching their flavor.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Brings a smooth, creamy tang that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling without graininess, ensuring a silky texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, elevating the cream filling’s flavor complexity.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped: Lightens the filling with airy fluffiness, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, halved: Bursts of bright, juicy freshness that are the star of this recipe.
- ¼ cup strawberry jam (melted): Provides a shiny glaze that seals in freshness and adds a subtle extra sweetness.
How to Make Strawberries & Cream Pie Recipe
Step 1: Make the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the consistency resembles wet sand—this will ensure a crust that holds together perfectly. Press this mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish and bake for 8-10 minutes until it turns a warm golden brown. Once done, let it cool completely so your filling won’t melt the crust or become soggy.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Filling
The cream filling is what makes this pie irresistibly creamy and dreamy. Beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is silky smooth without lumps. Then, gently fold in the whipped heavy cream to aerate the filling, resulting in a light, fluffy texture that lifts the richness of the cream cheese perfectly.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
With your crust cooled and filling ready, spread the creamy mixture evenly over the base. This layer acts as a luscious bed for those stunning fresh strawberries. Arrange the halved strawberries artfully on top, creating a vibrant and inviting pattern that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Step 4: Glaze and Chill
To finish, brush the melted strawberry jam over the strawberries to give the pie that irresistible glossy shine and extra layer of sweetness. Place the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set firmly. This chilling step is essential for the perfect slice.
How to Serve Strawberries & Cream Pie Recipe
Garnishes
While the pie is stunning on its own, sprigs of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar can add a beautiful finishing touch. These simple garnishes can lend a fresh aroma and visual interest that will impress your guests instantly.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for those who want an extra creamy experience. Light, refreshing salads or fruit bowls also complement the pie well for a balanced dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the pie in individual clear glasses or mini tart shells layered with the cream filling and strawberries to create adorable personal desserts. You can also add crushed nuts or toasted coconut on top for an exciting texture contrast that surprises the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Strawberries & Cream Pie Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. Consume within 2-3 days to enjoy fresh flavors and the perfect creamy texture.
Freezing
Freezing this pie is not recommended because the fresh strawberries and whipped cream filling can lose their texture and become watery once thawed. It’s best to enjoy this pie fresh for the best flavor and experience.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled, no-bake cream pie, reheating is unnecessary. Serve it straight from the refrigerator for the optimal cool, creamy texture. If it’s been in the fridge too long and hardens, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before slicing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the pie?
Fresh strawberries are ideal for this recipe to maintain firmness and flavor. However, if you must use frozen, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture making the pie soggy.
Is there a substitute for cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese as a substitute; it will offer a slightly sweeter, less tangy flavor but still provide a creamy texture that works beautifully.
How do I know when the crust is done baking?
The crust should be golden brown and fragrant when it’s done. If it’s pale, it needs more time to develop structure and flavor while preventing sogginess.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free graham or cookie crumbs, ensuring your crust is safe and delicious for gluten-sensitive diets.
How long should the pie chill before serving?
At least 2 hours is best to allow the filling to set properly. For even better results, chilling overnight helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about this Strawberries & Cream Pie Recipe that makes every bite feel like a little celebration. Its fresh, creamy, and crunchy layers come together effortlessly to delight your senses and your loved ones. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try soon—you might just find your new favorite dessert to share again and again.
Print
Strawberries & Cream Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful Strawberries & Cream Pie combines a crunchy graham cracker crust with a luscious cream cheese and whipped cream filling, topped with fresh strawberries glazed in strawberry jam. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy, this no-fuss dessert is ideal for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a light, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- 6 tbsp melted butter
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped
Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, halved
- ¼ cup strawberry jam (melted)
Instructions
- Make the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened and crumbly.
- Form and Bake the Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form an even crust layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust turns a warm golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before filling.
- Prepare the Cream Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until light and fluffy, taking care not to deflate the mixture.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the cream filling evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust. Arrange the halved fresh strawberries on top of the cream layer, covering the surface uniformly.
- Glaze the Strawberries: Using a pastry brush, gently coat the strawberries with the melted strawberry jam to give them a shiny, glossy finish that also adds extra sweetness.
- Chill and Serve: Place the assembled pie in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set properly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Whip the cream to stiff peaks for best texture in the filling.
- The pie should be kept refrigerated and is best consumed within 2 days for freshness.
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with other fresh berries if preferred.
- Using a melted jam glaze enhances the appearance and flavor of fresh fruit toppings.
