If you’ve ever craved a dessert that brings together the silky richness of cheesecake and the vibrant freshness of strawberries in a perfectly tender crust, this Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe is just what you need. It’s a delightful combination of creamy, sweet, and fruity, creating a slice of pure happiness that’s as stunning to look at as it is to eat. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just because you deserve a treat, this recipe is straightforward and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role—the creamy cheese layer, the fresh strawberries, and the jiggly strawberry topping all come together to make a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to gather before you start!
- 1 refrigerated pie crust: This forms the buttery, flaky base, perfect for holding all that creamy goodness.
- 12 oz. cream cheese, room temperature: Essential for a smooth and luscious cheesecake layer—be sure it’s soft for easy mixing.
- 1 ¼ cup powdered sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness that balances the tanginess of cream cheese beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cream cheese filling.
- 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped into the cream cheese, it delivers that light, fluffy texture everyone loves.
- 1 lb. strawberries, thinly sliced: Fresh, vibrant fruit that offers natural sweetness and stunning color.
- 1 (3 oz) package strawberry Jell-O: The glossy strawberry topping that sets the fruit in place and adds a fun, fruity finish.
- ½ cup cold water: Helps set the Jell-O perfectly without overheating the berries.
- ½ cup hot water: Needed to dissolve the strawberry Jell-O packet quickly and completely.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Take your refrigerated pie crust and gently press it into a 9-inch pie plate, crimping the edges just the way you like. Use a fork to poke a few holes in the bottom and sides—this keeps it from puffing up like a balloon during baking. Cover the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dry beans. This weighted baking method ensures a crisp, golden crust ready to support all the layers of your cheesecake pie.
Step 2: Bake the Crust
Bake your crust for 8-10 minutes until the edges start turning a lovely golden brown. Then, carefully remove the parchment and weights and bake for another 4-5 minutes to ensure the bottom is fully cooked and crisp. Once done, set your pie crust aside to cool completely before moving on—this is key to avoiding a soggy dessert.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a large bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese until it’s silky smooth—no lumps allowed here! Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract for sweetness and flavor, mixing until everything is well combined. Now, add the heavy whipping cream: start mixing on low, then crank it up to high for about a minute, until the mixture becomes thick, fluffy, and beautifully creamy.
Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
In a separate bowl, dissolve your strawberry Jell-O packet in hot water, stirring until it’s completely melted. Then, pour in the cold water and stir again. This cooling step helps the topping set perfectly later without cooking the fresh strawberries.
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Time to bring it all together! Spread the fluffy cream cheese filling evenly over your cooled pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Next, layer the thinly sliced strawberries neatly over the cream cheese, covering it completely. Finally, slowly and carefully pour the strawberry Jell-O mixture over the strawberries, letting it seep through all those lovely fruit slices.
Step 6: Chill and Set
Pop your pie into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4-6 hours, allowing the Jell-O to fully set and the flavors to meld perfectly. Patience here rewards you with a slice that holds firm yet melts in your mouth.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe is ready to dazzle! Add any finishing touches or garnishes and prepare for compliments.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh whipped cream and a scattering of extra strawberries on top instantly elevates this dessert. The cream adds a light airiness while the bright berries enhance the fruity pop. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or a drizzle of melted white chocolate can make your presentation even more spectacular.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs gorgeously with a simple cup of coffee or a crisp glass of sparkling rosé. For brunch or special occasions, serve it alongside fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to complement the creamy and fruity textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not turn this classic into mini individual pies using tart pans? Or layer the components in clear glasses for a fun parfait twist that shows off those gorgeous strawberry layers. Another idea is to experiment with different berry toppings or add a ribbon of balsamic glaze for a subtle tangy contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe slices keep beautifully covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to wrap it well with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and fresh strawberry flavor.
Freezing
This pie isn’t ideal to freeze because the texture of the Jell-O and fresh strawberries can change, becoming watery or mushy after thawing. For best results, stick to refrigerating and enjoy it fresh.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled dessert, it’s best served cold. Avoid reheating, which would affect the pie’s texture and flavor. Simply take it out of the fridge 10 minutes before serving to let it soften slightly for the perfect bite.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! A homemade crust adds a personal touch and can be tailored to your taste, whether you prefer graham cracker, shortbread, or traditional pastry. Just ensure it’s fully cooled before assembling the pie.
What can I substitute for strawberry Jell-O?
If you want to avoid packaged Jell-O, you can make your own gelatin mixture with fresh strawberry juice and unflavored gelatin. It requires a bit more effort but yields a natural, less sweet glaze.
How long does this pie need to chill?
For the Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe to set properly, chilling for 4-6 hours is crucial. This allows the Jell-O to firm up and the flavors to meld into a harmonious dessert.
Can I prepare this pie a day in advance?
Yes! In fact, making the pie a day ahead ensures it’s perfectly set and flavors are well combined, making your serving experience even better.
Are there any tips for slicing this pie cleanly?
To get neat slices, use a sharp knife and dip it in hot water between cuts. Wiping the blade clean helps avoid smearing the creamy layers for picture-perfect pieces.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe has been such a joy because it’s one of those desserts that never fails to impress and delight. The balance of creamy, sweet, and fruity flavors wrapped in a crisp crust makes it an instant favorite. I hope you give it a try soon and find as much happiness in every bite as I do!
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Strawberry Cheesecake Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Cheesecake Pie combines a buttery baked pie crust with a smooth, creamy cream cheese layer topped with fresh strawberries and a shiny strawberry Jell-O glaze. It’s a refreshing, no-bake dessert perfect for gatherings or any occasion that calls for a sweet, fruity 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 the oven to 425°F (218°C). Press the 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 with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dry beans.
- Bake the Crust: Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are golden brown. Remove weights and bake for 4-5 more minutes to finish baking the bottom. Let the crust cool completely before assembling the pie.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Pour in heavy whipping cream and mix on low speed at first, then increase to high speed for about 1 minute until the mixture is thick and fluffy.
- Prepare the Strawberry Topping: In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O powder in hot water, stirring thoroughly. Then add the cold water and stir to combine.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the cooled pie crust. Arrange the thinly sliced strawberries over the cream cheese layer.
- Pour Jell-O Mixture: Carefully pour the cooled but still liquid Jell-O mixture over the arranged strawberries, ensuring an even layer.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the assembled pie for 4-6 hours, or until the Jell-O topping is fully set and firm.
- Serve & Garnish: Before serving, garnish with whipped cream and extra fresh berries if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Do not let the Jell-O mixture cool completely before pouring, or it will set unevenly.
- If using homemade pie crust, ensure it is fully baked and cooled before adding the fillings.
- The pie is best served within 24 hours for optimal freshness and texture.
- For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and whipped topping instead.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
