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
Scale
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.
