If you’re searching for a dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat, this Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe is an absolute must-try. This pie perfectly combines a buttery, flaky crust with a dreamy cream cheese filling, all topped with fresh, juicy strawberries and a glossy strawberry Jell-O glaze. It’s a stunningly vibrant dish that balances creamy richness with fruity freshness, making it ideal for any occasion, from family dinners to celebratory gatherings. Once you try this Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe, it’s guaranteed to become a beloved classic in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create a luscious taste and appealing texture. Each ingredient plays its part, from the crisp pie crust providing structure to the luscious cream cheese filling and naturally sweet strawberries adding color and freshness.
- Refrigerated pie crust: Convenient and flaky, this forms the golden base of your pie; homemade crust works wonderfully if you prefer.
- Cream cheese (12 oz., room temperature): The star for a smooth, creamy filling with the perfect tanginess.
- Powdered sugar (1 ¼ cups): Easily blends into the cream cheese for a silky sweetness without any grittiness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a comforting warmth that enhances the overall flavor.
- Heavy whipping cream (1/3 cup): Whipped into the filling for fluffiness and a light texture.
- Strawberries (1 lb., thinly sliced): Fresh and juicy; their vibrant color and natural sweetness are a must!
- Strawberry Jell-O (3 oz package): Creates a glossy, flavorful glaze that holds the strawberries in place and seals in freshness.
- Cold water (½ cup) and hot water (½ cup): Essential for dissolving the Jell-O mix and forming the perfect topping consistency.
How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees F. Press your pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate, crimping the edges for a charming, decorative finish. Don’t forget to prick holes all over the crust’s bottom and sides to prevent bubbles while baking. If you want a perfectly flat crust, place parchment paper over it and fill with pie weights or dry beans before baking. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are golden, then remove the weights and bake a little longer until the bottom looks beautifully golden brown. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack—it’s crucial the crust is cool before adding the next layers.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Next, whip up the luscious cream cheese layer. Beat your softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and fully combined. Gradually add the heavy whipping cream; start mixing slowly to incorporate it, then crank the speed up to high for about a minute to get that fluffy, airy texture. This filling is rich yet light and forms the perfect base to complement the fresh strawberry topping.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
In a glass measuring cup, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O powder in hot water, whisking until completely smooth. Stir in the cold water to bring the temperature down and maintain the right consistency for the glaze. This step is vital—when poured over the strawberries, the Jell-O mixture suspends the fruit beautifully and gives the pie a shiny, irresistible finish.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Begin assembly by spreading the fluffy cream cheese filling evenly into the cooled pie crust. Arrange the thinly sliced strawberries over the cream cheese in an even layer—this gives a fresh burst with every bite. Finally, gently pour the Jell-O mixture over the strawberries, allowing it to fill the pie and hold the berries in place. Pop the pie into the fridge and let it set for 4 to 6 hours until firm. This chilling time is key to achieving the perfect sliceable texture.
How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe even more irresistible, top it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a few whole strawberries or even some mint leaves. These additions add texture, aroma, and an elegant touch that makes the dessert look straight out of a bakery display.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with light accompaniments like a crisp green salad or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the creamy pie and a fresh salad creates a balanced dessert experience, while ice cream enhances the indulgence for special occasions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, try slicing your pie and serving each piece on pretty dessert plates, drizzling with extra strawberry sauce or chocolate for a decadent twist. Another fun idea is to prepare mini individual pies in muffin tins for easy grab-and-go treats. Either way, the vibrant colors and flavors are sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pie covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will preserve the cream cheese filling and strawberry topping freshness for up to 3 days. It remains just as delicious, so you get to enjoy this treat even after the first serving.
Freezing
While you can freeze the pie, the texture of the strawberries and the Jell-O topping might be affected slightly after thawing, becoming softer. If you choose to freeze, wrap the pie securely in plastic wrap and foil, and consume within 1 month for best quality.
Reheating
This pie is best served chilled and does not require reheating. If you prefer, bring slices to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften the cream cheese layer for a melt-in-your-mouth treat.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust adds a personalized touch and can make this Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe feel even more special. Just ensure it’s prebaked and cooled properly before adding the filling.
Is it possible to make this pie without Jell-O?
The Jell-O topping is essential for setting the strawberry layer and giving it that shiny finish. If you prefer to skip it, try a gelatin substitute to maintain structure and appearance.
Can I prepare this pie the day before serving?
Yes, and that’s one of the best things about this recipe! Make it ahead, allow the pie to chill and set overnight, and the flavors will be even better the next day.
How do I keep the strawberries from getting soggy?
Using fresh, firm strawberries and chilling the pie to set the Jell-O topping quickly helps maintain texture. Avoid mashing the fruit when placing it onto the filling to keep that perfect bite.
Can I substitute other fruits for strawberries?
You can, but this Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe truly shines with strawberries’ distinct flavor. Blueberries, raspberries, or peaches could work with adjusted gelatin flavors but may change the overall character of the pie.
Final Thoughts
There is something undeniably joyful about making and sharing this Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe. It brings together classic flavors and simple ingredients in a way that feels both elegant and comforting. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking for an impressive dessert to wow your friends, this pie is a wonderful choice. Dive in, enjoy the process, and treat yourself to a slice of this strawberry heaven—you won’t regret it!
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Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie features a flaky baked pie crust filled with a smooth and fluffy cream cheese layer, topped with fresh strawberries and a luscious strawberry Jell-O glaze. Chilled for several hours to set perfectly, this dessert offers a refreshing, creamy, and fruity treat ideal for gatherings or any occasion.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 12 oz. cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
Strawberry Topping
- 1 lb. strawberries (thinly sliced)
- 1 3 oz package strawberry Jell-O
- ½ cup cold water
- ½ cup hot water
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Press the refrigerated pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate and crimp the edges as desired to create a decorative border.
- Pierce and Protect Crust: Use a fork to press holes in the bottom and sides of the crust. For best results and to prevent shrinking, place a piece of parchment paper over the crust and fill it with pie weights or dry beans.
- Bake the Pie Crust: Bake in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges turn golden brown. Then remove the pie weights and parchment paper, and bake for an additional 4 to 5 minutes until the bottom of the crust is also golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sweeteners and Flavor: Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar to the cream cheese and mix on low speed until well combined and smooth.
- Incorporate Heavy Cream: Pour in the heavy whipping cream and mix initially on low speed to incorporate, then increase mixer speed to high and beat for about one minute until the mixture is thick, light, and fluffy.
- Make the Strawberry Topping: In a large glass measuring cup, pour hot water and sprinkle the strawberry Jell-O powder on top. Whisk until the gelatin powder dissolves completely. Then add the cold water and whisk again to combine.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the fluffy cream cheese filling evenly into the cooled pie crust. Arrange the thinly sliced strawberries on top of the filling.
- Add the Gelatin Layer: Carefully pour the prepared Jell-O mixture over the strawberries to fill the pie crust without disturbing the layers.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled pie for 4 to 6 hours or until the gelatin is fully set. Optionally, top with whipped cream and fresh berries before serving for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Using pie weights during blind baking prevents the crust from bubbling and shrinking.
- Refrigerate the pie until fully set to achieve the perfect firmness of the gelatin topping.
- Fresh strawberries should be thinly sliced to allow the Jell-O mixture to seep through and set evenly.
- This pie is best served chilled and consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
