Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie

 

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the filling:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks

For the strawberry topping:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preparing the crust:

• In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well mixed.
• Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form the crust.
• Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

2. Making the filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
• Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined and smooth.
• Gently fold in the whipped cream until no streaks remain, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
• Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled crust. Return the pie to the refrigerator while you prepare the strawberry topping.

3. Preparing the strawberry topping:

• In a small saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer and thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove the strawberry mixture from heat and let it cool slightly.

4. Assembling the pie:

• Once the strawberry topping has cooled slightly, pour it evenly over the cream cheese filling in the pie crust.
• Spread the strawberry topping gently with a spatula to cover the cream cheese filling completely.
• Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until set.

5. Serving:

• Before serving, you can optionally garnish the pie with additional sliced strawberries or whipped cream.
• Slice and serve the Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie chilled, and enjoy the creamy, fruity goodness!
• This pie is perfect for any occasion, from summer gatherings to holiday celebrations. The combination of creamy filling and fresh strawberry topping is sure to be a hit with your family and friends!