Strawberry Cream Pie Recipe

Strawberry Cream Pie is a luscious, decadent dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy filling, and a sweet, fruity strawberry topping. This pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just a sweet treat to enjoy on a warm afternoon. The balance of flavors and textures—creamy, tangy, and sweet—will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cream Pie Recipe

This Strawberry Cream Pie is everything you could want in a dessert: rich, smooth, and full of fresh strawberry flavor. The graham cracker crust adds a sweet crunch that complements the velvety cream filling. The topping of juicy, sweet strawberries adds a fresh and light contrast, making every bite a perfect combination of indulgent and refreshing. The best part? It’s easy to make and doesn’t require any baking, so you can have this pie ready in no time. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a sweet dessert, this pie is sure to impress. The creamy filling and fresh fruit topping make it a dessert everyone will love, from kids to adults. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase in-season strawberries at their best!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Granulated sugar

For the Cream Filling:

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Heavy whipping cream (chilled)

For the Strawberry Topping:

• Fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
• Granulated sugar
• Cornstarch
• Water
• Lemon juice

Variations

• Add a layer of jam: Spread a thin layer of strawberry jam or preserves between the cream filling and fresh strawberries for an extra burst of strawberry flavor.
• Use a different crust: If you prefer a different type of crust, you can swap the graham cracker crust for a cookie crust (like vanilla wafer or shortbread) or even a buttery pie crust for a more traditional option.
• Sugar-free version: To make this pie sugar-free, use a sugar substitute in place of the granulated sugar and powdered sugar, and opt for a sugar-free whipped cream.
• Add more fruits: While the strawberries are the star of this pie, you can mix in other berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, for a colorful twist.

How to Make the Strawberry Cream Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture is well combined and looks like wet sand. Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the crust is golden and firm. Let it cool completely before filling.

Step 2: Make the cream filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the mixture is creamy and smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined. Spread the cream filling evenly into the cooled graham cracker crust.

Step 3: Make the strawberry topping

In a small saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the strawberries release their juice and the mixture thickens to a syrupy consistency, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let the topping cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Assemble the pie

Once the strawberry topping has cooled, spoon it over the cream filling in the pie crust, spreading it evenly. Arrange the sliced strawberries neatly on top for an attractive finish.

Step 5: Chill the pie

Place the pie in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2-3 hours, or until the filling is set. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the pie to firm up.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy

Once chilled, slice and serve the pie. You can add a dollop of whipped cream on top or serve it as-is for a creamy, refreshing dessert.

Tips for Making the Strawberry Cream Pie Recipe

• Use chilled cream: Make sure your heavy whipping cream is chilled when you whip it for the cream filling. This helps it whip up more easily and creates a fluffier texture.
• Cool the crust properly: Allow the graham cracker crust to cool completely before adding the cream filling to prevent it from melting or becoming soggy.
• Avoid overcooking the strawberry topping: The strawberry topping should thicken to a syrup-like consistency, but be careful not to overcook it. Overcooking can make it too thick or cause the strawberries to lose their fresh texture.
• For a smoother filling: If you prefer a smoother texture for the cream filling, you can beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer before adding the other ingredients.

How to Serve

Strawberry Cream Pie is best served chilled, and it makes a beautiful addition to any dessert table. Serve it as a light and refreshing dessert after a meal, or enjoy it as a special treat for brunch. For an extra touch, add whipped cream, fresh mint leaves, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup on top for added flavor and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Strawberry Cream Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pie can be kept in the same pie dish with plastic wrap or foil covering it, ensuring that it stays fresh.

Freezing

Although it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pie for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator for several hours before slicing.

Reheating

This pie is best served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply take it out of the refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving to bring it to the perfect temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just be sure to thaw them completely before using them in the topping mixture.

2. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Yes, you can use a store-bought graham cracker crust to save time. Just be sure to use a 9-inch crust to match the filling proportions.

3. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Let the graham cracker crust cool completely before adding the cream filling. You can also brush the crust with a thin layer of melted chocolate or white chocolate to create a barrier and prevent moisture from soaking into the crust.

4. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, this pie can be made up to 24 hours ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.

5. Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes! You can substitute a store-bought pie crust, a shortbread cookie crust, or even a nut-based crust for a different flavor and texture.

6. Can I make the cream filling without cream cheese?

If you prefer a lighter filling, you can substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt, though this will change the flavor and texture.

7. Can I skip the cornstarch in the topping?

If you prefer a thinner strawberry topping, you can skip the cornstarch, though it helps thicken the mixture and create a more syrup-like consistency.

8. Can I make this pie dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped coconut cream in place of the heavy cream and regular cream cheese.

9. Can I add other fruits to the topping?

Yes, feel free to add other fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries to the topping for a mixed berry variation.

10. How do I make sure the filling is smooth and lump-free?

Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. If it’s too cold, it may cause lumps in the filling.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cream Pie is the perfect dessert to enjoy on a warm day or as a special treat for any occasion. With its creamy filling, buttery crust, and sweet strawberry topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or indulging in a personal treat, this pie will definitely hit the spot. Enjoy!

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• Classic French Vanilla Mousse

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