Description
This No-Bake Strawberry Lemonade Pie is a refreshing and easy-to-make dessert perfect for summer gatherings. Featuring a creamy lemon and cream cheese filling mixed with sweet, cooked strawberries, all nestled in a classic graham cracker crust, this chilled pie offers a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness without any baking required.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (9-inch)
Strawberry Mixture
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (fresh is best)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese (softened)
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Garnish (optional)
- Extra strawberries
- Lemon slices
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Cook Strawberries: In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until the strawberries soften and release their juices. Mash them lightly with a spoon, then remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely.
- Prepare Filling Base: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing thoroughly until the mixture is fully combined and silky.
- Combine Strawberry Mixture: Once cooled, fold the strawberry mixture gently into the cream cheese filling. Then, carefully fold in the whipped topping until the filling is smooth and fluffy, taking care not to overmix.
- Assemble Pie: Pour the combined filling into the pre-made graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is set and firm.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with additional fresh strawberries, lemon slices, or a dollop of whipped cream if desired to enhance presentation and flavor.
Notes
- For an extra vibrant color and smooth texture, blend the cooked strawberries into a puree before folding them into the filling.
- This pie can be frozen to create a firmer, ice-cream-like dessert; thaw slightly before serving.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor impact.
- If cream cheese is not softened, the filling may become lumpy; ensure it is room temperature before mixing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
