Who doesn't love a dessert that's simple and delicious? This No-Bake Strawberry Milkshake Pie checks all the boxes. With just a few ingredients, you can create a sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a party or just want to enjoy a slice, this pie is easy to whip up. Let's dive into this recipe and make a delightful dessert that everyone will love!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This pie requires no baking, making it a quick and hassle-free dessert option that's perfect for warm days.
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy filling creates a delightful taste that's refreshing and satisfying.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: This pie is ideal for birthdays, picnics, or simply to enjoy at home with loved ones.
- Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors from the strawberries and the creamy filling make this pie a showstopper on any dessert table.
Ingredients
To make the No-Bake Strawberry Milkshake Pie, you need a few simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in the pie's flavor and texture. Here’s what you will gather:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened at room temperature
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Extra strawberries for garnish
- Whipped cream for topping
These ingredients come together to create a creamy, sweet, and refreshing pie. The graham cracker crust adds a nice crunch, while the strawberries give it a fruity punch. The cream cheese and whipped cream blend to form a fluffy filling that melts in your mouth. Each bite is like a taste of summer!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Instructions Overview
1. Preparing the Graham Cracker Crust:
First, grab a mixing bowl. Combine 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs with 1/3 cup of granulated sugar. Pour in 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix until it looks like wet sand.
2. Form the Crust:
Next, transfer this mixture into a 9-inch pie pan. Use the back of a measuring cup or your fingers to press it firmly into the bottom and up the sides. Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you make the filling.
3. Making the Strawberry Puree:
Now, take 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced. Add them to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Set aside half of this puree for garnish later.
4. Whipping the Cream:
In a medium bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy whipping cream using a mixer or whisk. Keep going until soft peaks form, which takes about 3-5 minutes.
5. Mixing the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a large bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth. Add 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 1 tsp of vanilla extract, and the remaining strawberry puree. Mix until creamy and well combined.
6. Combining the Mixtures:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the strawberry-cream cheese mix. Use a spatula and be careful not to deflate the whipped cream. You want the filling to stay light and airy.
7. Filling the Pie Crust:
Pour the filling into the chilled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, smoothing the top for a nice finish.
8. Chilling the Pie:
Cover the pie with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. This helps it set firmly.
9. Serving the Pie:
When ready to enjoy, take the pie out of the fridge. Top each slice with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Drizzle the reserved strawberry puree over the top for extra flavor and a pretty look.
Tips & Tricks
Serving Suggestions
- Best Pairings: Serve the pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream pairs well with the fruity pie. You can also add fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
- Avoiding Sogginess: To keep the crust firm, chill it before adding the filling. This helps it hold up better. Also, avoid letting the pie sit out too long before serving.
- Texture Tips: To get perfect whipped cream, start with cold heavy cream. Whip it until soft peaks form. This keeps your filling light and fluffy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mixture to keep it airy.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh strawberries rather than frozen. They will provide a vibrant taste and beautiful color to your pie.
- Chill the Mixing Bowls: Chilling the mixing bowls and beaters before whipping the cream can help achieve better volume and texture for the whipped cream.
- Don’t Overmix the Cream: When folding the whipped cream into the strawberry-cream cheese mixture, be gentle. Overmixing can deflate the whipped cream and lead to a denser filling.
- Let It Set: Allow the pie to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This helps the filling to firm up nicely, making for easier slicing and serving.
Variations
Flavor variations can make your No-Bake Strawberry Milkshake Pie even more fun. Here are some ideas to switch things up:
- Switching Fruits: You can use other berries like raspberries or blueberries. These fruits add a new taste and color. They work great in the filling or as toppings.
- Adding Chocolate: Want a chocolate twist? You can add a layer of chocolate. Pour some melted chocolate on the crust before adding the filling. You can also sprinkle chocolate shavings on top for fun.
- Vegan Alternatives: If you want a vegan pie, use dairy-free options. Replace cream cheese with vegan cream cheese. Swap heavy cream for coconut cream. Use a vegan sweetened condensed milk, or make your own with coconut milk and sugar.
These variations keep the pie fresh and exciting. You can mix and match to find your perfect flavor!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your No-Bake Strawberry Milkshake Pie fresh, use an airtight container. This helps protect the pie from air and other odors in the fridge. If you have leftovers, they will stay good for about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover it well!
If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. The pie can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
This way, you can enjoy a sweet treat even days later!
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them first and drain excess liquid. Fresh strawberries taste better, but frozen will work in a pinch.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you want a swap, try Greek yogurt or silken tofu. Both will make the filling creamy, but they will change the flavor slightly.
How long does the pie need to chill?
The pie needs to chill for at least 4 hours. This helps it set up nicely and makes it easier to slice.
Is it possible to make this pie in advance?
Absolutely! You can make this pie a day ahead. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, feel free to use a different crust. A cookie crust or even a gluten-free option can work well. Just make sure it's sturdy enough to hold the filling.
This blog post covered how to make a delicious strawberry pie. We discussed the key ingredients like graham crackers, fresh strawberries, and cream cheese. I provided step-by-step instructions for a smooth, easy process. You learned tips to avoid a soggy crust and how to customize your pie with different flavors.
In conclusion, this strawberry pie is a joyful dessert. You can easily impress guests or treat yourself. Enjoy the freshness and sweetness of strawberries in each bite. Happy baking!
