Get ready to delight in summertime simplicity with this Strawberry Cheesecake Pie—a showstopper that blends creamy, tangy cheesecake filling with a vibrant, jewel-toned strawberry topping. Imagine velvety whipped cream and sweet cream cheese resting in a crunchy graham cracker crust, all crowned with glistening strawberries glazed in jam. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or just craving a sweet, fresh treat for yourself, this pie is pure happiness in every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making a perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Pie only takes a handful of key ingredients, each one playing a starring role. It’s remarkable how these simple items come together to deliver bold flavors, luscious textures, and a striking look that guarantees compliments.
- Graham cracker pie crust: The classic 9-inch crust provides a comforting, crumbly foundation with a subtle honeyed flavor.
- Cream cheese (softened): Use 8 ounces for that unmistakable creamy tang and rich body.
- Powdered sugar: Just a half cup adds sweetness to balance the cream cheese without grittiness.
- Vanilla extract: One teaspoon gives the filling an aromatic warmth—don’t skip it, even if it seems subtle!
- Heavy whipping cream: That cloud-like texture comes from whipping a full cup until it’s billowy and soft.
- Fresh strawberries (sliced): Two cups make this pie truly sing with juiciness and radiant color. Pick the reddest and ripest you can find.
- Strawberry jam: Half a cup, melted and tossed with berries, creates that glossy, dessert-shop finish.
- Lemon juice: Just a tablespoon brightens the entire topping and keeps those flavors lively.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Pie
Step 1: Create the Cream Cheese Base
Begin by beating the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl until it’s ultra-smooth and creamy. This step makes your filling silky without lumps, setting the stage for that impeccable texture. Don’t rush it—it’s worth a little patience to get it just right!
Step 2: Blend in Sweetness and Flavor
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Beat until everything’s well combined, sweet, and aromatic. You’ll notice the filling transforming into something you’ll want to taste right away (go ahead—just a spoonful).
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it holds stiff peaks. The whipped cream is the secret to that dreamy, mousse-like cheesecake filling. If you’ve never done it before, watch for glossy, pillowy peaks that don’t droop when you lift the whisk.
Step 4: Fold and Fill
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the airy volume you just created. Spoon or spread this velvety mixture into your graham cracker crust, smoothing the top. Now comes the hardest part—let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set.
Step 5: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
In a small saucepan, melt the strawberry jam with the lemon juice over medium heat until it flows easily and turns glossy. Let it cool for a couple of minutes, then toss in all those gorgeous sliced strawberries, stirring gently to coat each piece in sweet, tangy shine.
Step 6: Finish and Chill Again
Once the pie’s filling has set, spoon the jammy strawberry topping over the chilled cheesecake layer—try to get an even layer all the way to the edges for the most mouthwatering look. Refrigerate for at least 30 more minutes so everything melds together before serving up slices of strawberry bliss.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Pie
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, a dollop of freshly whipped cream piped around the edges, a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios, or a few mint leaves tucked beside the strawberries really elevate your Strawberry Cheesecake Pie. Expect plenty of oohs and aahs when you bring this beauty to the table!
Side Dishes
Pair your Strawberry Cheesecake Pie with a cup of strong coffee or elegant tea to balance the sweetness, or serve with a light lemon sorbet for a refreshing citrus contrast. If you’re feeling celebratory, a glass of sparkling wine is always a welcome companion.
Creative Ways to Present
Mini pies in mason jars make an irresistible picnic treat, and you can even layer the strawberry topping parfait-style with cheesecake filling for party-friendly jars. For a really special occasion, arrange extra-sliced strawberries in overlapping circles on top to give the pie a floral, eye-catching finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Pie covered in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. The crust remains pleasantly firm, and the filling keeps its lovely texture.
Freezing
The entire pie (preferably without the fresh strawberry topping) can be frozen for up to one month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When you’re craving a slice, thaw it overnight in the fridge and top with strawberries just before serving.
Reheating
No need to reheat this chilled treat! If the pie has just come from the freezer, allow it to fully defrost in the refrigerator for best flavor and texture before slicing and serving. Serve it cold for that perfect, refreshing bite every time.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of whipping cream?
You can use it in a pinch, but whipping real cream gives your Strawberry Cheesecake Pie a richer flavor and a more luxurious texture. Nothing quite matches the smooth lift of freshly whipped cream.
What’s the best way to slice the pie neatly?
Run a sharp knife under hot water and wipe it clean between each cut. This helps you make tidy, restaurant-worthy slices that show off those creamy and vibrant strawberry layers.
Can I make the pie a day in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, Strawberry Cheesecake Pie is even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just add the strawberry topping a few hours before serving for the prettiest results.
How can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Simply use a gluten-free graham cracker pie crust (store-bought or homemade). All other ingredients in the recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Is there a way to lighten up the pie?
Yes! You can use reduced-fat cream cheese and swap in light whipped topping or non-dairy alternatives for the whipping cream if you prefer a lighter, but still creamy, dessert.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Cheesecake Pie is pure joy for anyone who loves the fresh flavor of strawberries and the comforting richness of cheesecake—all with surprisingly little effort! Whether you’re making it for a crowd or simply to treat yourself, you’ll want to savor every silky, fruity bite. So grab those strawberries and give this dessert a whirl; I promise, it never disappoints!
PrintStrawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe
Indulge in the delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries with this easy no-bake Strawberry Cheesecake Pie recipe. A perfect dessert for any occasion!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 2 hours 30 minutes chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Pie Crust:
- 1 (9-inch) graham cracker pie crust
Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beat until combined. Whip heavy cream in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form. Fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture. Spread filling into pie crust.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Strawberry Topping: Heat jam and lemon juice, stir in sliced strawberries. Spoon over chilled pie. Chill for another 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available, just remember to thaw and drain them first.
- Homemade graham cracker crust enhances the flavor of the pie.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 240 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg