If you are looking for a dessert that captures the sweet, fresh essence of strawberries while delivering a creamy, indulgent experience, this French Strawberry Pie Recipe is sure to become your new favorite. Bright, luscious strawberries cooked down into a glossy, tender topping nestle perfectly atop a dreamy cream cheese and whipped topping filling, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s a charming blend of textures and flavors that feels both elegant and homey at the same time—a dessert that brings everyone to the table with big smiles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this French Strawberry Pie Recipe lies in the simplicity of its ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of taste and texture, from the velvety filling to the vibrant fruit topping and crisp crust. You’ll find that these everyday ingredients come together effortlessly to create something truly special.
- Cream cheese, 4 ounces, softened: Provides a rich, tangy base that complements the strawberries perfectly.
- Frozen whipped topping, 8 ounces, thawed: Adds lightness and airy texture to the cream layer, balancing cream cheese density.
- Graham cracker crust, 1 crust: A buttery, slightly sweet shell that gives a satisfying crunch and structure.
- Strawberries, 1 1/2 pounds, sliced: The star of the show, offering fresh, juicy fruit flavor with natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Sugar, 1 cup: Sweetens the strawberry topping and helps create a syrupy consistency.
- Cornstarch, 1/4 cup: Thickens the strawberry mixture into a luscious glaze perfect for topping the pie.
How to Make French Strawberry Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
Start by placing the softened cream cheese into the bowl of a stand mixer. Using the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is key because it ensures a smooth, creamy texture for the filling that will melt in your mouth.
Step 2: Fold in the Whipped Topping
Next, add the thawed frozen whipped topping to the bowl. Swap the paddle for the whisk attachment and gently whisk the two together until fully combined. This creates the airy, soft base layer that contrasts beautifully with the strawberry topping later on.
Step 3: Spread the Cream Layer into the Crust
Evenly spread the fluffy cream cheese and whipped topping mixture into your graham cracker crust. Make sure the surface is smooth and level to provide a perfect canvas for your strawberry topping.
Step 4: Cook the Strawberry Topping
Combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Stir until everything is well mixed, then cook over medium heat. Watch carefully as the berries release their juices and the mixture begins to thicken. After liquid starts forming, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer quietly for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Cool and Assemble
Once your strawberry mixture is thick and glossy, remove it from heat and let it cool completely. Pour the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the cream cheese layer. This step ensures the pie will set properly and the layers won’t meld into each other.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Place the assembled pie in the refrigerator and chill it for at least one hour. This chilling time helps the pie firm up and allows the flavors to meld together into a delicious, cohesive dessert.
How to Serve French Strawberry Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up the presentation and flavor, sprinkle fresh chopped mint or a few whole strawberries on top right before serving. A light dusting of powdered sugar also adds an elegant touch and a subtle hint of sweetness that guests will love.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra creamy experience. If you prefer a fruitier complement, serve alongside a simple mixed berry salad to keep things fresh and bright.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in clear glass jars or petite tart pans to showcase the lovely layers of crust, cream, and strawberry topping. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for a delightful contrast in texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover French Strawberry Pie Recipe covered tightly in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days. Make sure to cover it well so the crust doesn’t absorb moisture and turn soggy.
Freezing
This pie is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to freeze it, wrap it carefully in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, although the texture of the whipped topping may change slightly.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy the pie cold for that refreshing, creamy texture that makes this French Strawberry Pie Recipe so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries work beautifully in this recipe and tend to have a brighter flavor. Just slice them as directed and cook as usual to achieve the perfect topping consistency.
Is it possible to make the crust from scratch?
Yes, you can make your own graham cracker crust using crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and a bit of sugar. It’s very easy to prepare and adds a homemade touch that pairs well with the creamy filling.
How long does it take for the pie to set?
Chilling the pie for at least one hour is crucial for setting the filling and topping layers properly. If you want a firmer slice, you can chill it a little longer before serving.
Can I substitute the sugar with a sweetener?
You can use alternative sweeteners like honey or agave, but keep in mind that this may affect the texture and sweetness level. It’s best to start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
What should I do if the strawberry topping is too runny?
If your topping is runny, try adding a bit more cornstarch and cooking it for a few additional minutes. The cornstarch thickens the mixture to create that perfect glaze consistency.
Final Thoughts
This French Strawberry Pie Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and straightforward steps come together to create a dessert that feels both indulgent and fresh. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you crave something sweet and strawberry-filled, it’s sure to impress and delight. I can’t wait for you to try it and add it to your list of cherished recipes!
PrintFrench Strawberry Pie Recipe
This French Strawberry Pie combines a creamy, fluffy cream cheese and whipped topping base with a luscious homemade strawberry topping, all nestled in a crisp graham cracker crust. The strawberry topping is gently cooked until thickened and cooled, creating a perfect balance between sweet and tangy flavors in every bite. Ideal for a refreshing dessert in warm weather or for any occasion where a light, fruity treat is desired.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 23 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Crust and Cream Layer
- 1 graham cracker crust
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed
Strawberry Topping
- 1 1/2 pounds strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the softened cream cheese. Using the paddle attachment, mix until it becomes light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Incorporate Whipped Topping: Add the thawed whipped topping to the cream cheese. Switch to the whisk attachment and whisk the mixture until fully combined and smooth.
- Spread Cream Mixture in Crust: Evenly spread the whipped cream and cream cheese mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust, creating a smooth, uniform layer.
- Cook Strawberry Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Stir well to distribute the cornstarch evenly among the strawberries.
- Simmer the Strawberries: Place the saucepan over medium heat. As the mixture heats, liquid will start to form. Once this occurs, reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 10 minutes until thickened.
- Cool the Strawberry Topping: Remove the strawberry mixture from heat and let it cool completely to avoid melting the cream layer when poured over.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the cream cheese layer in the crust.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled pie for at least 1 hour to set the layers before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the whipped topping is completely thawed for easy mixing and smooth texture.
- Slice strawberries evenly for consistent cooking and topping appearance.
- Cooling the strawberry topping fully before adding prevents the cream layer from melting or becoming runny.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the pie cleanly after chilling for neat serving slices.
- This pie is best served within 2 days when stored covered in the refrigerator.
