Strawberry Cream Pie: Your New Go-To Dessert for Weekend Brunches

Last Updated on February 28, 2026 by Souhail

There is something magical about the first bite of a perfectly chilled strawberry cream pie. I still remember the afternoon I first made this strawberry cream pie in my tiny Brooklyn kitchen, sunlight streaming through the window, the scent of fresh berries filling the air. It was a warm May day, and I needed a dessert that felt celebratory but not fussy.

This pie delivered exactly that. It fits perfectly into everyday life as a make-ahead treat for weekend gatherings, a cheerful addition to potlucks, or simply a joyful reward after a long week. The flavor profile is a dreamy balance of sweet, tangy strawberries, rich vanilla cream, and a buttery, crisp crust.

What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity. No fancy equipment, no complicated techniques, just fresh ingredients coming together to create a dessert that looks stunning and tastes even better.

Why This Strawberry Cream Pie Just Works So Well

Let me tell you why this strawberry cream pie has earned a permanent spot in my recipe rotation. It is not just about the gorgeous ruby-red berries glistening on top (though, hello, that visual alone is worth it). Here is what makes this recipe a true winner:

• No baking required for the filling: Once your crust is ready, the rest comes together without turning on the oven, a total lifesaver during hot New York summers.
• Fresh, vibrant flavor: Using ripe, in-season strawberries means every bite bursts with natural sweetness and a hint of tang.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it the night before and let it chill. It actually tastes better after the flavors have time to mingle.
• Customizable crust: Use a classic graham cracker base, a buttery shortbread crust, or even a gluten-free option to suit your needs.
• Light yet satisfying: The whipped cream filling is airy and luscious without feeling heavy, making it perfect after a big meal.

Want to switch things up? This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. For a dairy-free version, swap in coconut whipped cream and use a vegan butter crust. Gluten-free? Just use your favorite gluten-free cookie crumbs for the base. And if you are feeling adventurous, try adding a layer of lemon curd beneath the strawberries for a bright, zesty twist.

My Favorite Tricks for a Flawless Strawberry Cream Pie

After making this pie countless times (yes, I have the whisk marks to prove it), I have gathered a few pro tips that guarantee success every single time:

• Pat your strawberries dry: After washing, gently blot them with a paper towel. Excess moisture can make the filling runny and the crust soggy.
• Chill your mixing bowl and beaters: For the fluffiest whipped cream, pop your bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10 minutes before whipping. Cold tools equal maximum volume.
• Taste your berries first: Strawberries vary in sweetness. If yours are a bit tart, add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the glaze to balance the flavor.
• Let the crust set fully: Whether you bake or chill your crust, give it at least 30 minutes to firm up before adding the filling. This prevents a crumbly mess when you slice.
• Slice with a warm knife: Run your knife under hot water and wipe it dry between cuts for clean, picture-perfect slices.

If you are looking for a hearty savory dish to balance out this sweet dessert on your menu, you might also enjoy exploring our cottage pie recipe for a comforting main course that pairs beautifully with a light, fruity finish.

Fun Twists on the Classic Strawberry Cream Pie

While I adore the original version, sometimes it is fun to play with flavors and textures. Here are a few of my favorite variations:

Chocolate-Dipped Berry Version For a decadent twist, dip the tips of your strawberries in melted dark chocolate before arranging them on the pie. The slight bitterness of the chocolate complements the sweet berries and creamy filling, adding a sophisticated touch. This version is perfect for date nights or when you want to impress guests with minimal extra effort. If you love rich, nutty desserts, you might also want to check out this Texas chocolate pecan pie recipe for another show-stopping treat.

Mixed Berry Medley Not all strawberries are created equal, and sometimes variety is the spice of life. Swap half the strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. This not only creates a stunning visual effect but also introduces a more complex flavor profile with tart and sweet notes dancing together. Just be sure to adjust the glaze sugar if your berries are particularly tart.

Citrus Zest Infusion Add a teaspoon of finely grated lemon or orange zest to the whipped cream filling. The bright citrus notes enhance the freshness of the berries and cut through the richness of the cream. This variation is especially lovely in spring and summer when you want something that feels light and uplifting.

Tropical Strawberry Coconut For a vacation-in-a-bite experience, use a macadamia nut or coconut cookie crust, fold toasted coconut flakes into the filling, and top with strawberries macerated in a splash of lime juice. It is a fun, tropical escape that transports you straight to a sunny beach, even if you are just in your Brooklyn apartment.

Serving Suggestions

This strawberry cream pie is a star all on its own, but a few thoughtful pairings can elevate the experience. I love serving each slice with a dollop of extra whipped cream and a fresh mint leaf for a pop of color and aroma. For a contrasting texture, add a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a sprinkle of crushed shortbread cookies on the side. If you are hosting a brunch, pair the pie with freshly brewed coffee or a glass of sparkling rosé.

The effervescence and acidity cut through the creaminess beautifully. For a kid-friendly touch, arrange extra berries in fun patterns on top or let guests add their own berry toppings at a DIY pie station. If you enjoy creative pastry twists, these apple pie croissants make a delightful companion for a brunch spread.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover pie covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The crust may soften slightly over time, but the flavors will remain delicious.

I do not recommend freezing the fully assembled pie, as the whipped cream filling can separate and become grainy upon thawing. However, you can freeze the baked crust alone for up to a month, then fill and top it fresh when ready to serve.

There is no need to reheat this pie. Enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge for the best texture and flavor. If the crust has softened too much for your liking, pop individual slices in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving to firm them up.

Creative Ways to Enjoy This Recipe

Do not limit this pie to just dessert! Try serving small slices as a sweet breakfast treat alongside scrambled eggs or yogurt. You can also deconstruct the pie into parfaits by layering crumbled crust, whipped filling, and glazed strawberries in glasses for an easy, portable dessert. For parties, cut the pie into mini bites using a small round cutter and serve as elegant passed hors d’oeuvres.

And if you have leftover filling, use it as a dip for fresh fruit or as a topping for pancakes and waffles. If you love easy, portable desserts, you will also adore these pecan pie bars for your next gathering.

How Do You Make It

Strawberry Cream Pie

Recipe by Fatima Zahrae

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

25

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories

320

kcal

A luscious, no-bake strawberry cream pie featuring fresh berries, a silky vanilla filling, and a buttery crust. This easy dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, weekend treats, or whenever you need a little sweetness in your day.

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

• 0.25 cup granulated sugar (for glaze)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 0.5 cup water

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold

• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)

• Pinch salt

Directions

• Start by preparing your crust. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.
• Press this firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
• If you prefer a firmer crust, bake at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
• If you are short on time, you can simply chill it in the freezer for 20 minutes to set.
• While the crust chills, prepare the strawberry glaze.
• Take about one cup of the sliced strawberries and place them in a small saucepan with the ¼ cup sugar, cornstarch, and water.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy, about 5 to 7 minutes.
• Remove from heat, stir in the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and let it cool to room temperature.
• Next, make the creamy filling. In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with the powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon vanilla, and a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
• Be careful not to over-whip. Gently fold the cooled strawberry glaze into the whipped cream until just combined, creating a beautiful pink swirl.
• Spread this luscious filling evenly into your prepared crust.
• Arrange the remaining fresh strawberry slices on top in a decorative pattern, starting from the outer edge and working your way in.
• For an extra shine, you can brush the berries with a little warmed apricot jam or the reserved glaze.
• Finally, chill the pie for at least 3 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow everything to set.
• When ready to serve, slice with a warm knife and enjoy the creamy, fruity bliss!

Notes

• For the best flavor, use strawberries that are in season and fully ripe.
• If your kitchen is warm, keep the pie refrigerated until the very moment you serve it to prevent the filling from softening.
• You can substitute the graham cracker crust with a pre-made shortbread or chocolate cookie crust for a different flavor profile.
• To make ahead, assemble the pie up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the fridge.
• For a cleaner slice, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut.
• If you prefer a tarter pie, reduce the sugar in the glaze by 1 tablespoon.

Nutrition Facts

• Total number of serves: 8
• Calories: 319kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0.45mg
• Sodium: 0.180mg
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 24g
• Protein: 2g
• Vitamin C: 40mg
• Calcium: 4mg
• Iron: 2mg

Like this recipe?

Follow @wikitasty on Pinterest

FAQS

A Little Story Behind My Love for This Pie

This strawberry cream pie reminds me of lazy Sunday afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen. She would let me hull the strawberries while she hummed old tunes, and the smell of buttery crust baking was pure comfort. Now, living in New York, making this pie connects me to those sweet memories while letting me share a piece of that warmth with friends. It is more than just dessert. It is a little slice of love, nostalgia, and sunshine on a plate.

Quick Printable Shopping List

For the Crust

• Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups)
• Unsalted butter (6 tbsp)
• Granulated sugar (2 tbsp)

For the Filling & Topping

• Fresh strawberries (1 ½ lbs)
• Granulated sugar (¼ cup)
• Cornstarch (1 tbsp)
• Water (½ cup)
• Vanilla extract (1 ½ tsp total)
• Heavy whipping cream (1 cup, cold)
• Powdered sugar (3 tbsp)
• Pinch of salt

(Optional: apricot jam for glaze, mint for garnish)

Health Benefits Worth Noting

This strawberry cream pie offers more than just indulgence. Strawberries are packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, which support immune health and glowing skin. Using fresh fruit means you are getting natural sweetness with less added sugar than many store-bought desserts.

And because the portion size is satisfying but not overwhelming, it is a treat you can enjoy mindfully. Balance is key, and this pie fits beautifully into a joyful, nourished lifestyle.

Let’s Wrap This Up

There you have it, my beloved strawberry cream pie recipe, a dessert that is as easy to make as it is impressive to serve. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a sunny afternoon snack, this pie delivers creamy, fruity perfection in every bite. I hope it brings as much joy to your kitchen as it does to mine. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love my lemon berry tart or no-bake cheesecake bars for more fresh, fruit-forward desserts.

And if you are in the mood for a cozy savory pie, this Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe is a comforting classic worth trying. Now, go grab those strawberries and let’s bake something beautiful together. I cannot wait to hear how it turns out for you!