If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s irresistibly creamy, bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, and refreshingly easy to prepare, then you’re in for a treat with this No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cream Pie Recipe. It combines a buttery, crunchy graham cracker crust with a luscious cream cheese and gelatin-infused filling studded with juicy strawberries, all topped off with fluffy whipped cream and bright red berries. Perfect for warm days or anytime you want an impressive but fuss-free dessert, this pie will quickly become your sweet go-to that never disappoints.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round cream pie with three layers sits on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a light brown crumb crust that holds the pie. The middle layer is white whipped cream spread thickly and topped with small, bright red sliced strawberries scattered in the center. Around the edge of the pie are evenly spaced, large swirls of white whipped cream decorating the border. The pie is in a clear glass dish, and to the left, there are two white plates stacked with golden rims. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cream Pie Recipe is all about using simple but quality ingredients that come together to create a spectacular dessert. Each ingredient plays a key role—from the buttery graham cracker crumbs providing the perfect base, to the gelatin that ensures a dreamy, sliceable texture without baking.

Graham crackers, 10 (crushed into crumbs): The crunchy base that adds buttery goodness and a delightful texture contrast.
Butter, 6 tablespoons (melted): Binds the crust ingredients together and gives richness.
Sugar, 2 tablespoons: Adds just a touch of sweetness to balance the crust.
Heavy whipping cream, 1 cup (plus 1 cup for topping): Whipped to fluffy perfection for the creamy filling and decorative topping.
Powdered sugar, 1 ¼ cups (plus ¼ cup for topping): Sweetens the filling and whipped cream without graininess.
Cream cheese, 8 ounces (softened): The star ingredient lending the cheesecake its classic tangy creaminess.
Vanilla, 1 teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors with a warm aromatic note.
Fresh strawberries, 12 ounces (chopped plus extra for decoration): Bursts of juicy flavor and vibrant color throughout the filling and on top.
Gelatin, 5 teaspoons (dissolved in 3 tablespoons water): The secret to a firm yet silky filling that sets beautifully without baking.

How to Make No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cream Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by combining your crushed graham crackers with the melted butter and sugar. Mixing these with a fork helps coat the crumbs evenly, making it easier to press them into the pan later. Once mixed, press this mixture firmly into the bottom and halfway up the sides of an 8-inch springform or 9-inch pie pan. Then pop the crust into the refrigerator to chill and set while you prepare the filling. This chilling step ensures a solid base that won’t crumble when you slice the pie.

Step 2: Bloom and Melt the Gelatin

Next, dissolve your gelatin in cold water and give it a few minutes to bloom. Once it looks jiggly and swollen, gently heat it on low temperature until fully melted—slow and steady prevents any burning. Set it aside to cool slightly. This gelatin is what will give your cheesecake filling that perfect, sliceable firmness without needing an oven.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

Now it’s time to whip 1 cup of heavy cream with ¼ cup powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream adds lightness and airiness to your filling, balancing the richness of the cream cheese beautifully. Be sure not to overwhip, or your cream could turn grainy or start to separate.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with the remaining 1 cup powdered sugar until the mixture is fluffy and smooth. Add the vanilla and the slightly cooled melted gelatin, then mix everything on low speed until fully combined and silky. This gentle folding ensures a velvety texture packed with flavor. Next, fold in the chopped strawberries thoughtfully so you maintain bursts of fresh berry flavor and little pockets of juicy sweetness.

Step 5: Combine and Set the Filling

Gently stir in the whipped cream into your cream cheese and strawberry mixture, taking care to keep the airiness intact. Pour this luscious filling into the chilled graham cracker crust and use a spatula to smooth it evenly. Refrigerate the whole pie for at least 5 hours—or better yet, overnight—until it is completely firm and sliceable. This setting time is crucial to develop that rich cheesecake texture.

Step 6: Final Decoration

Once your pie is firm and ready to shine, whip the remaining cup of heavy cream with ¼ cup powdered sugar until you reach stiff peaks for a gorgeous topping. Pipe or spread this whipped cream along the border of the pie and crown it with extra fresh strawberries for a picture-perfect finish. This final touch not only looks stunning but adds a fresh, creamy contrast to each bite.

How to Serve No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cream Pie Recipe

A glass pie dish holds a creamy strawberry pie with a light brown crumb crust base. On top of the crust is a thick, textured white cream filling mixed with small pieces of strawberries. The surface is decorated with bright red sliced strawberries scattered evenly, and around the edge, there are smooth, white whipped cream swirls forming a neat border. A pie server lifts one slice, showing the pie's soft, creamy texture inside. The dish sits on a white marbled textured surface with soft natural light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries, sliced or whole, make the best and simplest garnish for this pie, bringing color and a fruity zing. For a little extra flair, sprinkle finely chopped mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. You can also add a drizzle of strawberry sauce or a few shards of white or dark chocolate for an elegant twist.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs wonderfully with a light, fresh accompaniment to complement its creamy sweetness. Consider serving it with a small bowl of fresh mixed berries, a dollop of lemon curd, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. If you want a refreshing contrast, a crisp glass of chilled rosé or sparkling water with a slice of lemon works beautifully alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can transform this delightful dessert into a real showstopper. Serve individual slices on pretty dessert plates with a sprig of mint on top. For a party, create mini versions of this pie using small jars or ramekins to impress guests with personal-sized portions. You might even try layering the filling and strawberry chunks in a clear trifle bowl for a stunning visual treat that invites everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cream Pie Recipe can be stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. Keeping the pie chilled preserves the creamy texture and fresh berry flavor, so it’s just as delicious when you enjoy the next slice.

Freezing

If you want to save the pie for longer, you can freeze it for up to one month. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then a layer of foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture. Be aware that fresh strawberry garnish is best added after thawing to keep the berries fresh and vibrant.

Reheating

This pie is best served chilled and does not require reheating. Warming it would cause the creamy filling to soften and lose its signature texture. Just take it out of the refrigerator about 10 minutes before serving for the perfect softness and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries in the No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cream Pie Recipe?

While fresh strawberries are ideal for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before folding into the filling so they don’t add extra moisture and make the pie soggy.

Is gelatin necessary in this cheesecake cream pie?

Gelatin is essential for this no-bake recipe because it helps the filling set firmly without baking. It gives you that perfect cheesecake texture that slices cleanly while staying creamy. Without gelatin, the pie would be too soft and might not hold together well.

Can I substitute the graham cracker crust?

Definitely! If you want a different flavor or gluten-free option, consider using crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even a nut-based crust. Just keep the same ratio of butter and sugar for the base to ensure it binds well.

How long can I keep the pie refrigerated before serving?

You can safely refrigerate the pie for up to 3 days while maintaining great taste and texture. For the best fresh strawberry flavor, add fresh fruit toppings just before serving whenever possible.

Can I make this pie vegan or dairy-free?

This recipe uses cream cheese and heavy cream, so it’s not naturally vegan or dairy-free. However, you could experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream whipped to stiff peaks. You might also want to research plant-based gelatin alternatives or agar agar to achieve the same filling firmness.

Final Thoughts

This No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cream Pie Recipe is a true gem that combines simplicity, fresh flavors, and that dreamy cheesecake texture we all crave—without turning on the oven. Whether you’re planning a casual family dessert or an impressive dish for guests, this pie promises to deliver smiles and requests for seconds. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!