If there’s a dessert that perfectly captures summer joy, it’s Strawberries & Cream Pie. This beauty combines a buttery graham crust, clouds of luscious cream cheese filling, and a crown of juicy strawberries glazed to catch the light. Each bite is creamy, crunchy, fresh, and just the right touch of sweet — a showstopper that’s delightfully simple to prepare. If you’re looking to impress at your next gathering or just treat yourself, this is the pie you’ll come back to all season long.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This pie comes together with just a handful of classic ingredients; each one plays a crucial role in bringing out the signature textures and flavors of Strawberries & Cream Pie. Gathering quality ingredients is the easiest way to guarantee a pie that wins everyone over.
- Pre-baked 9-inch graham cracker crust: The crisp, buttery foundation that makes every creamy bite sing. Go classic or try a flavored cookie crust for a fun twist.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped to billowy soft peaks, it lightens the filling so it’s dreamy and fluffy instead of dense.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): The heart of the creamy layer; softened cream cheese whips up ultra-smooth for a perfect texture.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds gentle sweetness without any graininess, making the filling taste like frosting and clouds combined.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Just a splash transforms the whole pie, giving a cozy bakery aroma and subtle warmth.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (halved or sliced): Plump, sun-ripened strawberries steal the show with their juicy freshness and vibrant color.
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam (warmed): Lightly brushed on, the jam gives those strawberries a beautiful, glossy finish and a boost of pure berry flavor.
- Optional whipped cream for topping: Extra swirls of whipped cream make every slice feel like something special—totally up to you!
How to Make Strawberries & Cream Pie
Step 1: Whip the Heavy Cream
Start by pouring the heavy whipping cream into a cold mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, beat the cream until stiff peaks form. This will take just a couple of minutes, and you’ll know it’s ready when the cream holds its shape. Pop it in the fridge while you prepare the next step—keeping it cold means extra fluffiness later.
Step 2: Blend the Cream Cheese Base
In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth, then add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue beating until everything is well combined and velvety. This is the secret to that signature Strawberries & Cream Pie lushness: ultra-creamy, tangy filling that’s never too sweet or heavy.
Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Cream
Gently fold the whipped cream into your cream cheese mixture, working slowly with a spatula. Folding rather than stirring helps keep all that wonderful air you whipped into the cream—this gives your pie its cloud-like texture. Make sure there are no streaks left, then stop. Over-mixing is the only way to go wrong here!
Step 4: Fill the Pie Crust
Spoon the creamy filling mixture into your pre-baked graham cracker crust. Spread it out evenly with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, making sure to smooth the top so you get a lovely base for those strawberries.
Step 5: Arrange the Strawberries
Now, for the fun part: topping your Strawberries & Cream Pie. Arrange your halved or sliced strawberries in concentric circles, or pile them on in a rustic mound—either way, there’s no wrong answer. The goal is to cover the surface of the pie generously with berries, making it as dazzling as possible.
Step 6: Glaze to Finish
Warm the strawberry jam just until it’s pourable. Use a pastry brush to gently glaze the strawberries. This not only makes the pie gleam but also adds another layer of bright berry flavor. Once you’re done glazing, slip the pie into the refrigerator to chill for at least two hours. You want everything to be beautifully set and refreshingly cool.
Step 7: Add Whipped Cream (Optional) and Serve
Just before you’re ready to serve, you can pipe or dollop on more whipped cream for that ultimate Strawberries & Cream Pie flourish. Slice, share, and await the oohs and ahhs!
How to Serve Strawberries & Cream Pie
Garnishes
While the glossy strawberries already make a statement, a few thoughtful garnishes can take your Strawberries & Cream Pie to the next level. Try a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios, a handful of fresh mint leaves, or delicate curls of white chocolate. A little lemon zest is another bright finishing touch for a summery vibe.
Side Dishes
This pie is a star on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple accompaniments. Pour tall glasses of iced tea or sparkling lemonade, add chilled berries or sliced peaches on the side, or serve with buttery shortbread cookies if you’re in the mood to go all out.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Strawberries & Cream Pie into mini tarts for party-perfect treats or layer the elements in parfait glasses for single servings that are easy to pass around. If you want a dramatic finish, slice the pie at the table and add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream beside each piece—your guests won’t forget it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Strawberries & Cream Pie (lucky you!), cover the pie with plastic wrap or store slices in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator, where it will stay delicious for up to 3 days. The crust may soften a bit over time, but the flavors mellow and meld beautifully.
Freezing
This pie actually freezes well if you skip the fresh strawberry topping until after it’s thawed. Wrap the cream-filled pie tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, then add your strawberries and glaze for a fresh finish.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat a Strawberries & Cream Pie—it’s at its best when served chilled right from the fridge. If the pie was frozen, simply allow it to thaw completely in the refrigerator before topping and slicing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for Strawberries & Cream Pie?
For the most vibrant presentation and flavor, fresh strawberries are best. Frozen berries tend to release more liquid as they thaw, which can make the topping watery and less appealing. If you must use frozen, thaw and drain them well, and expect a softer texture.
What can I use instead of a graham cracker crust?
Shortbread, vanilla wafer, or even chocolate cookie crusts make fantastic alternatives. Each will bring a slightly different sweetness and texture, so use your favorite for a personalized touch.
How do I make my own whipped cream for topping?
Simply beat cold heavy cream with a little powdered sugar (and vanilla, if you like) until soft or stiff peaks form, depending on your preference. Freshly whipped cream has a lighter, cleaner flavor than store-bought, making your Strawberries & Cream Pie extra special.
Can I make Strawberries & Cream Pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! The pie is actually better after a few hours of chilling. Prepare everything (except delicate toppings like whipped cream or mint) a day ahead, and garnish just before serving so it looks and tastes its best.
The filling seems too soft—what went wrong?
If your filling didn’t set as firmly as you wanted, it might be from under-whipped cream or warm ingredients. Make sure your whipped cream holds stiff peaks, and that cream cheese is soft but not melted when mixing. Chilling the pie for a full two hours (or longer) really helps the filling firm up.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a dessert that’s a true crowd-pleaser and feels like a little moment of indulgence, this Strawberries & Cream Pie is it. Gather those fresh berries and give this recipe a try—you’re sure to win some hearts (and maybe a few recipe requests) with your very first slice!
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Strawberries & Cream Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this no-bake Strawberries & Cream Pie, a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch graham cracker crust
Filling:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, halved or sliced
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam, warmed
- Optional whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Beat the whipped cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
- Prepare the cream filling: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Combine the fillings: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
- Fill the crust: Spread the cream filling evenly into the graham cracker crust and smooth the top.
- Add strawberries: Arrange the sliced strawberries on top in a circular pattern or pile them decoratively.
- Finish with jam: Brush the warmed strawberry jam over the strawberries for a glossy finish.
- Chill and serve: Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. Add whipped cream just before serving if desired.
Notes
- For a sweeter pie, increase the powdered sugar to 3/4 cup.
- You can substitute the graham crust with a shortbread or cookie crust for a twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
