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If you love the sweet and tangy harmony of fresh strawberries paired with creamy, dreamy cheesecake, you are going to adore this Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe! This luscious dessert combines a crisp, golden pie crust with a smooth cream cheese layer topped with juicy strawberries suspended in a shiny strawberry Jell-O glaze. It is the perfect treat for any occasion, whether a family dinner or a special celebration, bringing joy with every bite. Let me walk you through this delightful recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and stunning color. From the buttery crust to the tangy cream cheese and bright strawberries, every element plays a key role in creating this unforgettable dessert.
- Pie crust: A refrigerated pie crust works perfectly for a flaky, buttery base, but homemade crust adds a personalized touch.
- Cream cheese (12 oz.): Softened to room temperature for that irresistibly smooth, creamy filling that’s the heart of this pie.
- Powdered sugar (1 ¼ cup): Adds just the right sweetness without graininess, blending seamlessly with the cream cheese.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the richness with a warm, inviting aroma that elevates the overall flavor.
- Heavy whipping cream (1/3 cup): Whipped to fluffy perfection, it lightens the cream cheese layer for a velvety texture.
- Strawberries (1 lb., thinly sliced): Fresh, juicy, and bright red, the star topping that brings freshness and vibrant color.
- Strawberry Jell-O (3 oz. package): Gives that glistening, sweet strawberry glaze that locks the berries in place and adds flavor.
- Cold water (½ cup): To chill the gelatin mixture for proper setting without cooking the fruit.
- Hot water (½ cup): Dissolves the Jell-O powder completely for a smooth, flawless topping.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C). Gently press your pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate, making sure it fits snugly along the edges. Crimp the edges to create a pretty border. Use a fork to poke holes throughout the crust to prevent bubbling during baking. Then, cover the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dry beans to help it keep its shape. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges turn golden brown, remove the weights, and continue baking for another 4-5 minutes. Let the crust cool completely—this step ensures a crisp base that won’t get soggy under the creamy layers.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a large mixing bowl, whip the cream cheese until it’s perfectly smooth. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully blended. Next, pour in the heavy whipping cream, starting on low speed to incorporate, then crank it up to high and whip for about a minute until the mixture becomes thick and fluffy. This luscious filling will provide a creamy contrast to the fresh strawberries and glossy glaze above.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O powder in ½ cup of hot water, stirring until completely dissolved. Then stir in the cold water to cool the mixture down, so it’s ready to pour without cooking or wilting your lovely sliced strawberries.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Spread the fluffy cream cheese mixture evenly into your cooled pie crust, smoothing it out delicately. Neatly arrange the thinly sliced strawberries over the creamy layer, making sure they’re evenly spaced and beautifully displayed. Carefully pour the prepared Jell-O gelatin over the strawberries, covering them in a glistening strawberry glaze without disturbing the arrangement. This step locks in freshness and adds a shiny finish that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Place the pie in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours to allow the gelatin to set completely. This resting period is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and for the flavors to meld beautifully. When fully set, your Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe is ready to impress!
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Top your pie with dollops of fresh whipped cream and sprinkle extra fresh strawberries or even a few mint leaves for a pop of green. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and add delicious finishing touches that make every slice inviting.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light fruit salad. If you want a cozy drink pairing, a cup of hot tea or a chilled glass of sparkling rosé complements the sweet-tart flavors beautifully without overpowering the dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, consider serving your Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe in individual clear glass cups layered with the cream cheese mixture, strawberries, and jellied glaze on top for a charming twist. Another idea is to sprinkle edible flower petals on the top glaze for a stunning, Instagram-worthy look that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your pie is made, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a pie dome and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it an ideal dessert to prepare in advance for any occasion.
Freezing
While the cream cheese layer is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pie crust separately if you want to save time later. However, freezing the assembled Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe can affect the texture of the strawberries and gelatin, so it’s best to enjoy this pie within a few days for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating
This pie is best served chilled and is not meant to be reheated. Let it come slightly to room temperature before serving if it’s been in the fridge for a while, which helps the flavors shine even brighter.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! A homemade pie crust adds a lovely personal touch and flavor. Just make sure it’s fully baked and cooled before adding the filling to prevent sogginess.
What can I substitute for strawberry Jell-O?
If you want a homemade glaze, you can use unflavored gelatin dissolved in strawberry puree and a bit of sugar. This way you control the sweetness and ingredients entirely.
How long does the pie need to chill?
The pie should chill for at least 4 to 6 hours, ideally overnight. This gives the gelatin enough time to set properly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best for texture and flavor, but if you use frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make the pie watery.
Is this pie suitable for a summer barbecue?
Definitely! The Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe is a refreshing, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for warm-weather gatherings, combining cool creaminess with vibrant strawberries.
Final Thoughts
If you want to create a dessert that brings smiles and instantly becomes a favorite, this Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe is your new go-to. It’s wonderfully easy to make yet impressively delicious, blending fresh flavors with creamy textures and a fun, colorful presentation. You’ll find yourself making it again and again, sharing a slice of happiness with those you care about most.
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Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Strawberry Cheesecake Pie is a delicious, no-bake creamy dessert featuring a smooth cream cheese layer topped with fresh strawberries and a glossy strawberry Jell-O glaze. The flaky baked pie crust adds the perfect base for this sweet and fruity pie, perfect for gatherings or a refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (or homemade, if preferred)
Cream Cheese Layer
- 12 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
Strawberry Layer
- 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 (218°C). Press the refrigerated pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate and crimp the edges as desired. Use a fork to poke holes in the crust to prevent bubbling. Cover the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dry beans to hold the shape during baking.
- Bake the Pie Crust: Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until the edges start to turn golden brown. Remove the weights and parchment paper, then bake for an additional 4-5 minutes to fully bake the bottom. Once done, remove from the oven and allow the crust to cool completely before adding the filling.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and smooth. Pour in the heavy whipping cream and start mixing on low speed, then increase to high speed for about 1 minute or until the mixture becomes thick and fluffy.
- Prepare the Strawberry Topping: In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O powder in ½ cup of hot water, stirring thoroughly until completely dissolved. Then stir in ½ cup of cold water to cool the mixture.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the cooled pie crust. Arrange the thinly sliced strawberries neatly over the cream cheese layer. Carefully pour the prepared Jell-O mixture over the strawberries, spreading it evenly to cover all the fruit.
- Chill the Pie: Place the assembled pie in the refrigerator and chill for 4-6 hours, or until the Jell-O topping is fully set and firm.
- Serve & Enjoy: Before serving, optionally garnish with whipped cream and extra fresh berries for an attractive and tasty presentation. Slice and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Using a pie crust shield or foil over the edges during baking can prevent excessive browning.
- For added flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture.
- The pie is best served the same day it is assembled, but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To make a homemade pie crust, use your favorite shortcrust pastry recipe if you prefer not to use refrigerated crust.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
