Imagine sinking your fork into a luscious slice of Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie. With my multiple attempts, I’ve perfected this delightful dessert, making it a staple in my kitchen. The combination of fresh strawberries, a rich cream cheese layer, and a buttery crust is simply irresistible. If you love strawberries, this pie is just for you! You can also check out my Strawberry Cream Cake for another fruity treat.
About Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie is a cherished family recipe that’s been passed down through generations. I wanted a dessert that captures the essence of summer, and this pie delivers! Each time I made it, the luscious flavors and creamy texture surprised me, reminding me of family dinners and warm, sunny afternoons.
- Quick prep – perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
- Budget-friendly – fresh ingredients you can easily find.
- Family favorite – who can resist dessert with fresh strawberries?
- Strawberries are not just tasty; they are rich in vitamin C!
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- Strawberries: Fresh and vibrant, essential for flavor – choose ripe berries for the best results.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Provides a fluffy richness to the pie filling – can be swapped with whipped topping for a lighter version.
- Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and tang – reduced-fat options can work well, but avoid fat-free for texture.
- Pecans: Enhance the crust’s nutty flavor – walnuts can be a great alternative if needed.
How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a deep 10-inch pie dish to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon powdered sugar, and ¾ cup chopped pecans. Pour in ¾ cup melted unsalted butter and mix until fully combined; your hands will help bring it together.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared dish, ensuring an even layer, and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
- Set the crust aside to cool completely before adding the filling, as this helps maintain the integrity of the cream layer.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- When pressing the crust, use the bottom of a measuring cup to ensure it’s compact and even.
- If your whipped cream doesn’t hold shape, consider cold cream and a chilled bowl for whipping.
- For a seasonal twist, consider using raspberries or blackberries alongside the strawberries.
- This recipe can easily be halved or doubled, just adjust the cooking time and size of your dish accordingly.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
Store your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze slices for up to 2 months. To reheat, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. After a few days, I found the crust stays pleasantly crisp if stored properly.
What to Serve With Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie
Consider pairing this pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light fruit salad. For more deliciousness, you might like my Easy Spicy Chicken Sandwich or No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy? Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the cream filling, and consider pre-baking it.
- Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but fresh strawberries offer a better taste and texture.
- What’s the best way to slice the pie? A sharp knife dipped in hot water cuts through the cream smoothly.
- How long will this pie stay fresh? It’s best enjoyed within 3 days, but can be refrigerated longer under proper conditions.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! It can be prepared a day in advance; just add the topping before serving.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely cherish the Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie, especially during summer gatherings. Each bite brings back fond memories and offers a refreshing taste. I encourage you to share your experience with this pie; I’d love to see how yours turns out!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Strawberry Shortcake Recipe – a classic dessert that highlights fresh strawberries.
- Strawberry Cream Cake – shares the delightful strawberries and creamy texture.
- No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake – another fruity dessert with a rich cream layer.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
- 1.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon powdered confectioner’s sugar
- 0.75 cup chopped pecans
- 0.75 cup unsalted butter melted
Filling Ingredients
- 2 pound fresh strawberries hulled, divided
- 0.5 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoon cornstarch
- 5 drops red food coloring optional
- 1.25 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 ounce cream cheese at room temperature
- 0.75 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup powdered confectioner’s sugar
Instructions
Crust Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Butter a deep 10-inch pie dish.
- In a bowl, mix together flour, powdered sugar, and pecans. Pour in melted butter and combine. Press the mixture into the pie dish.1.5 cup all-purpose flour
- Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
Filling Preparation
- Mash enough strawberries to make 1 cup, then mix with water in a saucepan.
- Add sugar and cornstarch to the mashed strawberries. Bring to a boil while stirring until it thickens. Add food coloring if desired and set aside to cool.
- Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth, gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla. Fold in whipped cream.
- Spread the cream cheese filling into the cooled crust, chill for 30 minutes, then arrange the reserved whole strawberries atop the cream. Spoon cooled glaze over strawberries.
- Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
For an added touch, consider garnishing with mint leaves or additional strawberries before serving.