Strawberry Cheesecake Pie: A Slice of Heaven

Strawberry cheesecake pie combines the rich, creamy delight of a cheesecake with the simplicity and elegance of a pie. This dessert is a showstopper, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety cheesecake filling, and a vibrant strawberry topping. The fusion of textures and flavors—sweet strawberries, tangy cream cheese, and a crumbly base—makes it perfect for any gathering, from holidays to casual family dinners.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and ease of preparation. While traditional cheesecakes can be intimidating, this pie version offers the same luxurious taste without the fuss. Its charm comes from the colorful strawberry topping that not only adds a burst of fruity flavor but also makes the pie visually stunning. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredient	Quantity
Graham cracker crumbs	1 ½ cups (about 10 crackers)
Unsalted butter, melted	½ cup (1 stick)
Granulated sugar	2 tablespoons (for crust)
Cream cheese, softened	8 oz (1 package)
Sweetened condensed milk	1 (14 oz) can
Fresh lemon juice	3 tablespoons
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced	2 cups
Strawberry jam or preserves	½ cup
Cornstarch	1 tablespoon
Water	2 tablespoons

Notes:

• Use high-quality strawberries for the best flavor and appearance.
• If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen strawberries can be substituted.
• The condensed milk provides a creamy sweetness without needing additional sugar for the filling.

• 9-inch pie dish: To form and bake the pie.
• Mixing bowls: For the crust and filling preparation.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Ensures the cheesecake filling is smooth and lump-free.
• Saucepan: For cooking the strawberry topping.
• Spatula: For spreading the filling and topping evenly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.

Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, beating until well combined and silky. Stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled crust and use a spatula to smooth the surface. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until the filling has set.

3. Prepare the Strawberry Topping

While the pie chills, combine the sliced strawberries, strawberry jam, and cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries soften slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the heat and let the topping cool completely.

4. Assemble the Pie

Once the filling has set and the strawberry topping has cooled, spread the strawberries evenly over the cheesecake layer. For a decorative touch, arrange some fresh strawberry slices on top.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Chill the pie for an additional 30 minutes before slicing to ensure the topping is fully set. Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream, if desired, for an extra indulgent finish.

Tips and Variations

• Make It Fancy: Add a drizzle of melted white or dark chocolate over the strawberry topping for a decadent touch.
• Crust Alternatives: Swap graham crackers for crushed digestive biscuits, shortbread cookies, or even chocolate cookie crumbs for a twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
• Berry Variations: Substitute the strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry topping for a colorful variation.
• No-Bake Crust: Skip baking the crust and chill it for at least 30 minutes before adding the filling.

Pro Tip: For the best presentation, slice the pie with a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your strawberry cheesecake pie on a decorative dessert plate with an extra swirl of whipped cream and a sprig of fresh mint. For an elegant look, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar or garnish with chocolate shavings.

Pair the pie with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a creamy complement. If serving at a summer gathering, place the pie on a cake stand surrounded by fresh strawberries for a beautiful centerpiece.

Pairings

This luscious dessert pairs beautifully with a variety of drinks:

• Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of Prosecco or Champagne enhances the fruity and creamy flavors of the pie.
• Coffee or Espresso: The slight bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cheesecake filling.
• Iced Tea: A tall glass of sweetened or unsweetened iced tea makes for a refreshing, summery pairing.

The light, tangy flavors of the pie work especially well with beverages that are crisp and not overly sweet, offering balance and contrast.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store the pie in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze individual slices by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: This pie is best served chilled or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	320
Total Fat	17g
Saturated Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	36g
Protein	5g
Sodium	160mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Conclusion

Strawberry cheesecake pie is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, set against a buttery graham cracker crust. Its luscious cheesecake filling and fresh strawberry topping create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether served at a dinner party or enjoyed as an afternoon treat, this pie is sure to impress.

Why wait to enjoy this stunning dessert? Give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turns out. Share your photos, tips, and unique twists in the comments or on social media. After all, good desserts are meant to be shared!