Description
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie is a delightful no-bake dessert perfect for summer gatherings. It features a creamy, smooth blend of cream cheese and whipped cream nestled in a crisp graham cracker crust, topped with fresh strawberries glazed with sweet strawberry jam. Easy to prepare and beautifully refreshing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal time in the kitchen and is ideal for make-ahead occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch graham cracker crust
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Topping
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ½ cup strawberry jam or preserves
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This creates the rich base component of the pie.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This adds lightness and airy texture when folded into the cream cheese mixture.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated. This helps maintain the fluffy but dense consistency essential for the filling.
- Fill the Crust: Spread the cream cheese filling evenly into the prepared graham cracker crust. Smooth the surface for an attractive finish. Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set the filling firmly.
- Make the Strawberry Glaze: In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the strawberry jam combined with 1 tablespoon of water, stirring until a smooth glaze forms. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly to room temperature.
- Arrange Strawberries and Glaze: Once the filling is chilled and set, neatly arrange the sliced fresh strawberries over the surface. Then brush or gently spoon the warm strawberry glaze over the strawberries to evenly coat them, enhancing their shine and flavor.
- Final Chill: Return the pie to the refrigerator and chill for an additional 1 to 2 hours before serving. This resting time allows the glaze to set and flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- You can make this pie a day ahead to streamline your prep time on the day of serving.
- For a lighter version, substitute light cream cheese and use whipped topping in place of heavy cream.
- Try adding a few whole blueberries or raspberries mixed with the strawberries for additional color contrast and flavor nuance.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American