Introduction

When it comes to effortless yet impressive desserts, nothing beats a no-bake pie. This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie is a dreamy treat made with just a few pantry staples and fresh strawberries. Perfect for warm weather or when you don’t want to heat up your kitchen, this pie delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Creamy, tangy, and sweet, it’s the kind of recipe that instantly becomes a family favorite.

My recipe story

This recipe has a special place in my heart. The first time I made Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie, it was for a summer gathering with family. I wanted something light, refreshing, and crowd-pleasing that wouldn’t require hours in the kitchen. To my delight, the pie disappeared within minutes, and everyone begged for the recipe. Since then, it has become a go-to dessert for birthdays, barbecues, and holiday dinners. It’s one of those recipes that never fails to impress, yet it’s simple enough for even beginner bakers.

💡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No-bake recipe means no oven required—perfect for hot days.

Uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients found in any grocery store.
Creamy texture paired with fresh strawberries makes it irresistible.
Great for make-ahead entertaining, as it chills beautifully.

Customizable with different fruits, crusts, or toppings.

Ingredient breakdown

The beauty of this Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient has a role to play, and together, they create a perfectly balanced dessert.

Graham cracker crust: The buttery, crumbly crust provides a delicious base and contrast to the creamy filling. You can use a store-bought crust to save time or make one at home with graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter.

Cream cheese: The star of the filling, cream cheese gives the pie its rich, tangy flavor and smooth texture. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy blending.

Powdered sugar: This sweetens the filling while also ensuring it stays silky and lump-free. Powdered sugar blends more smoothly than granulated sugar, making it ideal for no-bake desserts.

Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are the crown jewel of this pie. Their natural sweetness and vibrant color make the dessert visually stunning and incredibly refreshing.

Equipment you’ll need

Mixing bowls
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Rubber spatula

Measuring cups and spoons
9-inch pie dish (if making crust from scratch)
Refrigerator space for chilling

Step-by-step directions

Step 1: Prepare the crust
If using a store-bought crust, simply set it aside. For a homemade crust, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Mix the cream cheese filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until well incorporated. This step ensures a silky base with no lumps, so take your time blending.

Step 3: Assemble the pie
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the prepared graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top, creating an even layer. This sets the stage for the strawberry topping to sit beautifully on top.

Step 4: Add the strawberry topping
Wash, hull, and slice fresh strawberries. Arrange them on top of the cream cheese layer in a decorative pattern, or simply pile them high for a rustic look. The vibrant red berries add both flavor and visual appeal.

Step 5: Chill and serve
Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or until fully set. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up. Slice and serve cold, with whipped cream if desired.

Variations & substitutions

This recipe is highly versatile, making it easy to adapt based on your preferences. Swap the graham cracker crust for an Oreo cookie crust to add a chocolatey twist. For a lighter filling, fold in whipped cream to create a mousse-like texture. Not a fan of strawberries? Try topping the pie with blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of seasonal fruits. You can even drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce over the top for an indulgent finishing touch.

💡 Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

Always soften the cream cheese before mixing to avoid lumps.
If your filling is too loose, add a tablespoon of cornstarch or instant pudding mix for structure.

For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season strawberries.
Don’t skip the chilling step—it ensures the pie sets properly.
If the crust crumbles, press it down more firmly with the bottom of a glass when forming.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

This pie is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, make the crust and cream cheese filling a day in advance, then add the strawberries just before serving for maximum freshness. Freezing is possible, but the texture of the strawberries may change upon thawing, so it’s best to freeze only the crust and filling, adding the fruit later.

Serving ideas & pairings

This pie is wonderful on its own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit salad and coffee. It also pairs beautifully with sparkling wine or rosé for a more elegant occasion. If you’re hosting a summer party, combine it with other no-bake desserts like chocolate mousse cups or lemon icebox cake for a refreshing dessert table.

FAQ

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw them completely and drain excess liquid to avoid a watery topping.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the crust and filling in advance and add strawberries just before serving.

What if I don’t have a graham cracker crust?
You can use digestive biscuits, Oreos, or even shortbread cookies for the base.

How do I make the filling lighter?
Fold in whipped cream or whipped topping to create a fluffier texture.

Can I add a glaze on top of the strawberries?
Yes, a simple strawberry glaze made from jam and water adds shine and extra flavor.

Final thoughts

This no-bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie is the ultimate combination of creamy, sweet, and refreshing flavors. It’s easy to make, visually stunning, and guaranteed to impress your guests. Whether you’re preparing it for a summer picnic, a holiday gathering, or simply as a treat for yourself, this pie delivers all the indulgence without the fuss of baking. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie – No-Bake, All Yum!

Author: Sarah White
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 8 servings

Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A creamy, tangy cream cheese filling topped with fresh strawberries in a buttery graham cracker crust. An easy no-bake dessert everyone loves.

Ingredients

(9-inch) graham cracker crust
8 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
¼ cup strawberry glaze or jam (optional, for shine)

Instructions

If making your own crust, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, then press into a pie pan. Chill for 15 minutes.
In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
Fold in the whipped topping gently until the filling is light and fluffy.

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the prepared crust, smoothing the top.
Arrange sliced strawberries decoratively on top of the filling. For extra shine, brush lightly with strawberry glaze or warmed jam.
Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2–3 hours before slicing and serving.

Notes

Best served cold. Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert

Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American