Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie

Craving a Refreshing Dessert? Treat yourself to a slice of this Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie, a perfectly creamy and fruity dessert that’s sure to impress. With its luscious cream cheese filling, topped with fresh strawberries and a sweet glaze, this pie is a fantastic way to indulge your taste buds.

Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or simply want a treat after dinner, this easy-to-make pie is the ideal option. The combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors makes it an irresistible dessert that everyone will love.

Ingredients List

To create this delicious Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie, you’ll need just a few key ingredients. Let’s break down what you’ll need to make each component of this irresistible dessert.

Filling Ingredients

• 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar
• 1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)

Strawberry Topping Ingredients

• 1 (16-ounce) container fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and sliced
• 1/4 cup strawberry jam or jelly, melted and cooled

Crust Ingredients

• 1 pre-made graham cracker crust

Required Kitchen Tools

Having the right tools will make your pie preparation quick and easy. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

1. Mixer (Hand or Stand): To beat the cream cheese and combine the ingredients for a smooth filling.
2. Medium Bowl: For tossing the strawberries with the strawberry jam or jelly.
3. Pie Dish: A 9-inch pie dish to hold your graham cracker crust and filling.
4. Spatula: For spreading the cream cheese mixture into the crust evenly.
5. Refrigerator: For chilling the pie and letting it set.

These tools will ensure a smooth and successful pie-making process.

Pie Preparation

Mixing the Cream Cheese Filling

To begin, start by making the rich and creamy filling for your pie. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy. Add the lemon juice and powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined. The lemon juice adds a subtle tang that complements the sweetness of the cream cheese, while the powdered sugar will help achieve the perfect level of sweetness.

Adding the Whipped Topping

Next, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping (such as Cool Whip) into the cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula or mixer on low speed to avoid over-mixing, which could cause the whipped topping to lose its airy texture. The whipped topping gives the filling a light and fluffy consistency that’s perfect for the pie.

Spreading the Filling into the Crust

Once your filling is ready, it’s time to add it to the crust. Take your pre-made graham cracker crust and carefully spread the cream cheese mixture into it, ensuring an even layer. Use a spatula to smooth the surface of the filling, making it as flat and uniform as possible. This will ensure each bite is equally delicious.

Topping and Chilling

Preparing the Strawberry Topping

For the finishing touch, it’s time to prepare the sweet and fruity topping that will crown your pie. In a medium-sized bowl, add the washed, hulled, and sliced fresh strawberries. Pour the melted and cooled strawberry jam or jelly over the strawberries, tossing them gently to coat each piece evenly. The jam not only adds sweetness but also creates a glossy finish that makes the strawberries shine beautifully.

Adding the Strawberry Topping to the Pie

Once the strawberries are coated in the jam, carefully arrange them on top of the cream cheese filling in the pie crust. You can place them in a circular pattern, starting from the outer edges and working your way in, or simply pile them on top for a more casual, rustic look. Be sure to distribute the strawberries evenly for a balanced flavor in every slice.

Chilling the Pie

Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours to allow it to set properly. This step is crucial because it gives the filling time to firm up and meld together, making it easier to slice. The cool temperature also enhances the freshness of the strawberries and allows the flavors to come together beautifully.

Serving and Storing

Serving the Pie

Once the pie has chilled and set, it’s ready to be served! To serve, simply slice it into wedges and enjoy the creamy, strawberry-filled goodness. This pie is perfect for a summer gathering or as a sweet treat after a meal. The combination of the cool, creamy filling with the fresh, sweet strawberries on top is a crowd-pleaser. For an extra touch, you can garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, though the pie is just as delightful on its own.

Storage Instructions

To keep your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie fresh, store it tightly covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you have leftovers, simply slice off what you need and return the pie to the fridge to preserve its freshness. Be sure to cover it properly to prevent it from absorbing any odors in the fridge.

Freezing the Pie

If you want to store the pie for a longer period, you can freeze it. To do so, wrap the pie tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie is the ultimate dessert for anyone craving a refreshing, creamy, and fruity treat. Its simple preparation and delightful combination of flavors make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a summer BBQ, or a special celebration, this pie is guaranteed to impress. Plus, with easy storage and freezing options, you can enjoy the sweet taste of this pie even after the last slice is gone. So, grab your ingredients and give this pie a try—it’s a sweet treat that everyone will love!