Strawberry Cream Cheese Chill Pie
Strawberry Cream Cheese Chill Pie is a delightful dessert that brings together the creamy goodness of cream cheese and the fresh sweetness of strawberries. This pie is perfect for warm days and special occasions, providing a refreshing treat that everyone will love. With its smooth texture and flavorful strawberry topping, this dessert is sure to impress family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a wonderful option for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring no baking and just a few simple ingredients. Secondly, it’s a light dessert that won’t weigh you down, making it a great choice for summer gatherings and potlucks. Lastly, the refreshing flavor of strawberries combined with cream cheese is truly irresistible, ensuring this pie will be a crowd-pleaser!
How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Chill Pie
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (or whipped cream)
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 5 cups fresh strawberries (divided)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
Directions:
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, and beat until fluffy. Fold in whipped topping gently until well combined. Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust.
- Make the Strawberry Glaze: Puree 1 1/2 cups of the strawberries in a blender or food processor. In a small saucepan, combine strawberry puree, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and glossy (about 5–8 minutes). Let it cool to room temperature.
- Assemble the Pie: Slice the remaining strawberries and place them on top of the cream cheese layer. Pour the cooled strawberry glaze over the berries. Chill the pie for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until set.
How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Chill Pie
Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Chill Pie chilled. Slice it into pieces and enjoy it on its own or pair it with extra whipped cream for an added treat. This pie looks beautiful and tastes even better, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners!
How to Store Strawberry Cream Cheese Chill Pie
Store this pie in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change when thawed.
Tips to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Chill Pie
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to get a smooth filling.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor. If not available, thawed frozen strawberries can work in the glaze, but fresh strawberries are always recommended.
- Chill the pie overnight for the best taste and texture, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Variation
You can substitute other fruits for strawberries, such as raspberries or blueberries, to create a different flavor. Just follow the same steps for making the glaze with the new fruit.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought whipped topping?
Yes, store-bought whipped topping works perfectly in this recipe and saves time!
2. How can I make the crust gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or alternative crusts like almond flour or crushed nuts mixed with melted butter.
3. Is it necessary to chill the pie for 4 hours?
Yes, chilling the pie allows it to set properly and enhances the flavors. For the best results, chill it overnight.
Enjoy making and sharing this tasty Strawberry Cream Cheese Chill Pie with your loved ones!
