If you’re looking for a dessert that combines silky cream cheese with the sweet, bright flavor of strawberries without heating up your kitchen, this No-Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a luscious, creamy pie that sets perfectly in the fridge, boasting a crisp graham cracker crust and a fresh strawberry puree that makes every bite sing. This pie is refreshingly easy to prepare and impressively delicious, making it the ideal treat for summer gatherings, weeknight indulgences, or any time you want a show-stopping dessert with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients are the heart and soul of this pie, each contributing its own magic to the final creation. From the fresh strawberries that brighten the flavor to the creamy cheese providing the luscious texture, every item is essential for that perfect balance.
- 1 cup strawberries (cut): Use ripe and fragrant strawberries for the freshest flavor and natural sweetness.
- 1 ½ teaspoons sugar: A touch to enhance the natural sweetness of the strawberries in the puree.
- 1 ½ teaspoons orange juice: Adds a subtle citrus zing to brighten the fruit flavor.
- 1 tablespoon gelatin (unflavored): This helps the pie set firmly without baking.
- 2 tablespoons water: Used to dissolve the gelatin smoothly.
- 3 tablespoons orange juice: Infuses a hint of fresh citrus to the cream cheese filling.
- 16 ounces cream cheese (room temperature): The creamy base that gives this pie its smooth texture and tang.
- 1 ¼ cups sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: Adds a warm, comforting flavor note.
- ⅛ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances the sweetness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Whipped into the filling for extra lightness and richness.
- 15 graham crackers (2 cups crumbs): Creates a classic, buttery crust with a satisfying crunch.
- 7 tablespoons butter (melted): Binds the crust crumbs and adds buttery richness.
- ⅛ teaspoon salt: A pinch to round out the crust’s flavor.
How to Make No-Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by turning your graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or by crushing them in a sealed bag with a rolling pin. Mix these crumbs with the melted butter and salt for that buttery, salty base. Press this mixture firmly into your pie dish so it forms an even crust. Pop it into the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes — this step ensures your crust will be crisp and hold together beautifully once the filling is added.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Puree
Combine the cut strawberries with the sugar and orange juice and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This maceration step allows the berries to release their juices and sweeten naturally. Then blend this mixture until smooth using a blender or immersion blender. This puree is the vibrant heart of the pie’s flavor, delivering fresh, fruity brightness in every spoonful.
Step 3: Beat the Cream Cheese Mixture
In your stand mixer bowl, whip the room temperature cream cheese with sugar, vanilla, and salt until silky smooth. Slowly incorporate the strawberry puree into this mixture, blending until it’s perfectly combined and bursting with strawberry flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Gelatin
In a small bowl, mix the gelatin with water and orange juice, then microwave for about 10 seconds to dissolve. Let it cool slightly so it doesn’t shock the cream cheese mixture, then add it in while beating. This step is crucial because the gelatin will help your pie set beautifully without baking.
Step 5: Whip the Cream and Combine
Switch to the whisk attachment and slowly add the heavy cream to the cream cheese mixture, starting on low speed to incorporate without splatters. Once the cream is mixed in, crank up the speed and whip until the filling is fluffy and light, usually about 1 to 2 minutes. This creates the silky, airy texture that makes this pie so irresistible.
Step 6: Assemble and Chill
Carefully pour the luscious filling into the chilled graham cracker crust. Use an offset spatula to smooth the surface evenly. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours so it can set properly and develop that perfect creamy firmness that will delight every slice.
How to Serve No-Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few fresh strawberry slices or a sprig of mint on top makes this pie look as good as it tastes. You could even dust the surface lightly with powdered sugar or add a drizzle of strawberry sauce for extra sweetness and visual appeal. These simple touches elevate the dessert into something special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra creamy contrast. For a healthier balance, fresh fruit salad or some crunchy toasted nuts on the side can provide a lovely textural counterpoint. It’s versatile enough to complement many accompaniments depending on your mood.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving for a party or gathering, consider making individual mini pies in mason jars or small ramekins for a charming presentation. Another idea is layering the strawberry cream cheese filling with crushed graham crackers in parfait glasses for a no-fuss but stunning dessert. Either way, the No-Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe will wow your guests every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pie can be stored in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap or a pie cover for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled preserves the creamy texture and fresh flavor, so every slice tastes just as delicious as the first.
Freezing
This pie freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn and store for up to 1 month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain its smooth, creamy texture.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat this pie since it’s best served chilled. Let it sit briefly at room temperature for about 10 minutes if you prefer a softer texture, but keep it cool for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this pie?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain them well to avoid excess water in your puree, which can affect the pie’s texture.
Is there a substitute for gelatin?
You can try agar-agar for a vegetarian alternative, but be sure to follow its preparation instructions as it behaves differently from gelatin.
How can I make the crust gluten-free?
Simply swap the graham crackers for gluten-free crackers or cookies of your choice, then proceed with the recipe as usual.
Can I double this recipe for a larger pie?
Yes, just remember to use a bigger pie dish and adjust chilling time accordingly to ensure it sets perfectly.
What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
No worries! A handheld mixer or even vigorous whisking by hand works fine, though it might take a bit more elbow grease.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably charming about this No-Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe — it’s effortless, fresh, and so delicious that it quickly becomes a favorite. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced dessert lover, give this recipe a try and watch it disappear from the table each time. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate fresh strawberries and creamy indulgence, all without heating your oven or spending hours in the kitchen. You’re going to love making it as much as you love eating it!
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No-Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No-Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie is a luscious and refreshing dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust filled with a creamy, sweet strawberry cream cheese mixture. With the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries pureed and folded into a smooth cream cheese filling set with gelatin, this pie is perfect for warm days or when you want a delicious dessert without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
Crust
- 15 graham crackers (about 2 cups crumbs)
- 7 tablespoons butter (melted)
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Strawberry Puree
- 1 cup strawberries (cut)
- 1 ½ teaspoons sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons orange juice
Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 ¼ cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy cream (unbeaten)
Gelatin Mixture
- 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
- 2 tablespoons water
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions
- Prepare Crust: Place graham crackers in a food processor and grind into fine crumbs or place them in a resealable bag and crush with a rolling pin. Mix crumbs with melted butter and ⅛ teaspoon salt until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a pie dish that has been sprayed with cooking spray, using the bottom of a glass or flat surface to compact it. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Make Strawberry Puree: Combine cut strawberries, 1 ½ teaspoons sugar, and 1 ½ teaspoons orange juice in a bowl. Stir well and let sit for 30 minutes to macerate. Then blend the mixture in a blender, food processor, or with an immersion blender until completely smooth.
- Beat Cream Cheese Mixture: In the bowl of a stand mixer, add cream cheese, 1 ¼ cups sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and ⅛ teaspoon salt. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the pureed strawberries and beat again until fully combined.
- Dissolve Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 2 tablespoons water and 3 tablespoons orange juice. Let it sit for a minute, then microwave for 10 seconds until the gelatin dissolves completely into a liquid. Allow it to cool slightly but remain liquid, then add it to the cream cheese and strawberry mixture, beating until incorporated.
- Whip Heavy Cream: Change the mixer attachment to a whisk. Pour in the unbeaten heavy cream and start beating on low speed. Once it begins to incorporate, increase the speed to high and whip for 1-2 minutes until soft peaks form.
- Assemble and Chill: Pour the creamy strawberry filling into the prepared graham cracker crust. Use an offset spatula to smooth the top evenly. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or until fully set before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Use fresh strawberries for best flavor; frozen berries can be used but thaw and drain excess liquid first.
- If you prefer a firmer filling, increase gelatin to 1 ½ tablespoons.
- This pie can be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated.
- Decorate the pie with sliced strawberries or whipped cream before serving if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
