Strawberry Chill Pie is a refreshing no-bake dessert that layers a creamy cheesecake filling with a vibrant, homemade strawberry glaze over a crisp graham cracker crust. Perfect for spring and summer, this pie is bursting with fresh strawberry flavor and a silky-smooth texture that makes every bite delightful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Strawberry Chill Pie combines the best of a creamy cheesecake and fresh fruit tart, without the need to turn on the oven. The homemade strawberry glaze delivers a naturally sweet berry flavor, while the whipped cheesecake layer adds richness and balance. It’s visually stunning and easy to prepare ahead of time, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings, holidays, or simply a sweet treat on a warm day.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Base Layer
One 9-inch crust made from crushed graham crackers
Berry Glaze
5 cups fresh strawberries, stems removed and quartered (divided into two portions)
½ cup white sugar
1½ tablespoons cornstarch
3 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Cheesecake Layer
8 ounces cream cheese, softened at room temperature
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring
1 cup heavy whipping cream
directions
Prepare the Strawberry Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine 2 cups of quartered strawberries, white sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over low-medium heat, stirring often as the berries release their juices. Gently mash the strawberries as they soften.
Raise the heat to medium-high and bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Allow it to bubble for 1 minute. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
Make the Cheesecake Layer:
Beat the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture to create a light, airy filling.
Assemble the Pie:
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the prepared graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Top with Strawberry Glaze:
Toss the remaining 3 cups of fresh strawberries with the cooled glaze. Spread the glazed berries evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Chill and Serve:
Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow it to set. Serve chilled.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8 slices
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes (including chilling time)
Calories: Approximately 380 kcal per serving
Variations
Chocolate crust: Replace the graham cracker crust with a chocolate cookie crust for a richer flavor.
Lemon twist: Add lemon zest to the cheesecake layer for a citrusy brightness.
Berry mix: Incorporate blueberries or raspberries along with strawberries in the glaze for a mixed berry topping.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free graham crackers to make the crust.
Mini pies: Prepare in individual tart pans or jars for single servings—ideal for parties or gifting.
storage/reheating
Store Strawberry Chill Pie in the refrigerator in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Freezing is not recommended due to the fresh berries and whipped cream, which may become watery upon thawing. This pie is served cold and does not require reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries are preferred for the best texture and appearance, but frozen can be used for the glaze if thawed and drained properly.
How do I prevent the pie from becoming watery?
Make sure the strawberries are well-drained and the glaze is completely cooled before topping the pie.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
What’s the best way to slice the pie cleanly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts for neat slices.
Is it necessary to use both cream cheese and whipped cream?
Yes, this combination gives the filling both richness and lightness. Substituting one alone will change the texture.
Can I use a store-bought glaze?
Homemade glaze offers the best flavor, but store-bought glaze can be used for convenience.
What can I use instead of graham crackers?
You can use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or shortbread cookies as a base.
How can I tell if the pie has set?
The filling should be firm to the touch and not jiggle in the center. Chilling for at least 4 hours helps ensure proper setting.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Use vegan cream cheese, a dairy-free whipped topping, and a plant-based crust to adapt it for a vegan diet.
Is this pie very sweet?
It has a balanced sweetness thanks to the tart strawberries and lightly sweetened filling. You can reduce the sugar slightly if desired.
Conclusion
Strawberry Chill Pie is an ideal dessert for warm weather and special occasions, offering layers of creamy, fruity delight with minimal effort. It showcases the natural flavor of fresh strawberries in a way that’s elegant yet easy to prepare. With its make-ahead convenience and no-bake simplicity, it’s a dessert that will quickly become a seasonal staple.
Strawberry Chill Pie
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Chill Pie is a no-bake, refreshing dessert featuring a creamy cheesecake layer, a buttery graham cracker crust, and a sweet strawberry glaze bursting with fresh berries. Perfect for spring and summer, this cool treat is both elegant and easy to make. Keywords: Strawberry Chill Pie, no-bake strawberry pie, cream cheese pie, summer berry dessert, strawberry cheesecake pie.
Ingredients
Base Layer:
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1 pre-made 9-inch graham cracker crust (or homemade)
→ Berry Glaze:
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5 cups fresh strawberries, stems removed and quartered (divided)
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1/2 cup white sugar
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1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
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3 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
→ Cheesecake Layer:
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8 ounces cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring
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1 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Glaze
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In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of the strawberries with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
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Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently and mashing berries until the mixture thickens.
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Bring to a gentle boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat and cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
4. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla; mix until creamy.
5. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until firm peaks form.
6. Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
7. Spread cream cheese mixture into the graham cracker crust evenly.
Step 4: Top with Strawberry Glaze
8. Mix remaining 3 cups of strawberries with the cooled glaze.
9. Spread the glazed strawberries on top of the cheesecake layer.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
10. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
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Make sure the strawberry glaze is fully cooled before topping the pie.
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You can use a store-bought graham cracker crust for convenience.
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Garnish with fresh mint or a dollop of whipped cream for presentation.
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