If you love all things strawberry and crave a refreshing, no-fuss dessert, then this Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Imagine the creamy richness of whipped cream and cream cheese, the sweet freshness of chopped strawberries, and the delightful crunch of crushed shortbread cookies, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. This pie is the perfect treat for hot days when you want something cool, sweet, and utterly satisfying without turning on the oven. It’s light, fruity, and easy to make ahead, perfect for sharing with friends or saving a slice for yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe lies in its simple, staple ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of texture and flavor. Each component plays a special role, from the creamy filling to the crunchy cookie topping that adds that lovely contrast.
- 1 prepared 9 inch graham cracker crust: offers a crisp, buttery foundation that complements the creamy filling perfectly.
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold: whipping it to stiff peaks gives the pie its light and fluffy texture.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: adds tangy richness and helps stabilize the whipped cream.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: lightly sweetens the filling without overpowering the fresh strawberry flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: infuses warmth and depth to the creamy mixture.
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries: provides fresh bursts of sweetness and bright color throughout the pie.
- 1 cup strawberry pie filling: the glossy topping that seals the deal with extra strawberry flavor and shine.
- 1/2 cup crushed shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers: adds a delightful crunch both inside the filling and sprinkled on top.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe
Step 1: Whip the Cream
Start by beating the cold heavy whipping cream in a large mixing bowl until stiff peaks form. This will give your filling that light, airy lift that makes every bite feel like a cloud of deliciousness. Make sure your bowl and whisk are well-chilled to help the cream whip faster and hold its shape.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Adding the powdered sugar and vanilla extract at this stage blends sweetness and flavor evenly throughout the filling. Mixing these until fully combined sets a velvety base that perfectly balances the whipped cream.
Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Cream and Strawberries
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, taking care not to deflate it. Once smooth and fluffy, stir in the diced fresh strawberries along with half of the crushed cookies to distribute a little unexpected crunch inside the filling. This step builds layers of flavor and texture that keep the pie interesting with each slice.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Spread the luscious filling evenly into your prepared graham cracker crust, creating a thick layer that will hold all those wonderful strawberry bites. Next, spoon the strawberry pie filling over the top to form a fruity glaze. Finally, sprinkle the remaining crushed cookies on top for that irresistible crunchy finish that makes this dessert stand out.
Step 5: Freeze and Set
Cover the pie tightly and freeze it for at least 4 hours until firm. This step is key for the pie to hold its shape and deliver that perfect slice every time. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes—this slightly softens the pie and brings out all the flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe truly shine, add a few extra garnishes just before serving. Fresh mint leaves, a few whole strawberries, or even a light dusting of powdered sugar can elevate the presentation and add an inviting aroma. These simple touches show off your homemade effort and make the dessert even more enticing.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with light and fresh accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the pie’s creamy texture without overwhelming the strawberry flavors. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit salad for an extra burst of summer freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in clear glasses or mason jars layered with extra crushed cookies and whipped cream. Or, try decorating the top with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent flair. No matter how you present it, this Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe will grab attention and win hearts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any pie left over, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and store it in the freezer. This helps maintain the pie’s texture and prevents freezer burn. When stored properly, it will stay delicious and fresh for up to one month.
Freezing
This dessert is perfect for freezing, making it an excellent option for preparing in advance. Just be sure to cover the pie thoroughly to avoid absorbing any other freezer odors. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to keep that creamy consistency intact.
Reheating
Unlike baked pies, this Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe should not be heated. Instead, let it soften slightly at room temperature before serving; this brings out the creaminess and lets the flavors develop fully without sacrificing the refreshing frozen texture that makes it so special.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding to the filling to avoid watering down the pie.
How long can I keep the pie in the freezer?
You can safely store this pie in the freezer for up to one month, keeping it well-covered to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Is it better to use shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers?
Both work wonderfully! Shortbread cookies add a buttery richness, while vanilla wafers offer a lighter sweetness—choose based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Can I make this pie without a graham cracker crust?
Yes, you can experiment with other crusts like vanilla wafer crusts or even a chocolate cookie crust for a twist. Just ensure the crust is firm and chilled before filling.
Do I need to beat the cream cheese and whipping cream separately?
Yes, whipping the cream cheese smooth and the heavy cream separately until stiff peaks form ensures the filling is fluffy and well aerated, giving the pie its perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
The Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe is such a joyous dessert to make and share. It’s simple enough for a last-minute treat but impressive enough for any special occasion. The balance of creamy, fruity, and crunchy elements makes it utterly crave-worthy, and the ease of no baking means you can enjoy it any time you want a cool, delicious slice of happiness. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and see just how addictive this pie can be!
Print
Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful, no-bake Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie featuring a graham cracker crust filled with a creamy mixture of whipped cream, cream cheese, fresh strawberries, and topped with strawberry pie filling and crushed shortbread cookies. Perfect for a refreshing summer dessert that freezes to a perfect sliceable consistency.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 prepared 9 inch graham cracker crust
Filling
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup crushed shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers
Topping
- 1 cup strawberry pie filling
- Remaining 1/2 cup crushed shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside carefully to maintain the volume.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, blending thoroughly to combine.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until the texture is light and fluffy without deflating the whipped cream.
- Add Fresh Strawberries and Cookies: Stir in the diced fresh strawberries and half of the crushed shortbread cookies to the creamy filling, mixing gently for even distribution.
- Fill the Crust: Spoon the creamy filling into the prepared graham cracker crust and spread it out evenly with a spatula for a uniform layer.
- Add Topping: Spread the strawberry pie filling over the top of the creamy layer, then sprinkle the remaining crushed cookies evenly over the surface.
- Freeze: Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Serve: Before serving, allow the pie to sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes to soften slightly, then slice using a sharp knife warmed under hot water and dried between cuts for clean slices.
Notes
- Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water for easier slicing without cracking the pie.
- Frozen strawberries that are thawed and well-drained can be substituted for fresh strawberries if needed.
- Store pie tightly covered in the freezer for up to 1 month to maintain quality.
