Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie (Print Version)

Chilled layers of cream cheese and fresh strawberries over a buttery graham base—refreshing and easy for any occasion.

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 1 (9-inch) graham cracker crust

→ Cream Cheese Filling

02 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 1 cup heavy cream

→ Strawberry Topping

06 - 5 cups fresh strawberries, tops removed and quartered, divided
07 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
08 - 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
09 - 3 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

# Steps:

01 - In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine 2 cups of the strawberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir regularly as the berries begin to soften and release their juices.
02 - Use a spoon or potato masher to gently mash the strawberries. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it bubble for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
03 - In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and silky.
04 - In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fully incorporated.
05 - Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
06 - Once the cooked strawberry glaze is cooled, stir in the remaining 3 cups of fresh strawberries until evenly coated.
07 - Spoon the strawberry topping over the cream cheese layer, spreading it gently to the edges of the crust.
08 - Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let it set completely.

# Notes and Tips:

01 - Use very ripe strawberries for maximum flavor and sweetness.
02 - Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for the smoothest filling texture.
03 - For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wipe between each cut.