Strawberry Cool Whip Pie – A Light & Dreamy Dessert!
There’s something magical about the combination of fresh strawberries and fluffy Cool Whip—it’s sweet, creamy, and effortlessly elegant. This Strawberry Cool Whip Pie is the perfect no-bake dessert for warm days, offering a refreshing contrast of juicy berries and velvety filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, planning a bridal shower, or simply craving a guilt-free treat, this pie comes together in minutes yet tastes like a gourmet indulgence. Plus, it’s light enough to enjoy without the heaviness of traditional cream pies. Ready in just 15 minutes (plus chilling time), this dessert is as easy as it is impressive!
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Table of Contents
Key Info Box
Prep Time: 15 min | Chill Time: 4 hours
Difficulty: Easy | Cost: $$ (moderate)
Servings: 8
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier twist)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened (or Neufchâtel for lighter option)
- 1 (7 oz) container marshmallow fluff
- 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed (or homemade whipped cream)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tbsp strawberry jam (or sugar-free jam)
- 1 tsp lemon juice (to enhance freshness)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves
- Additional whipped cream
- White chocolate shavings
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly moistened.
- Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, covering the bottom and sides. Use a flat-bottomed glass to compact it.
- Chill for 10 minutes to set (or bake at 350°F for 8 minutes for extra crispiness).
Pro Tip: For a nuttier flavor, substitute half the crumbs with crushed vanilla wafers or almond flour.
2. Make the Creamy Filling
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Gently fold in marshmallow fluff until fully combined.
- Add vanilla extract, then carefully fold in Cool Whip to keep the mixture airy.
Pro Tip: For a lighter texture, let the Cool Whip sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before mixing.
3. Assemble the Pie
- Spread the filling evenly into the chilled crust.
- Smooth the top with a spatula, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight).
4. Prepare the Strawberry Topping
- In a small bowl, mix sliced strawberries with jam and lemon juice. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
- Just before serving, arrange strawberries over the pie.
Pro Tip: For a glossy finish, brush a thin layer of warmed apricot jelly over the berries.
5. Garnish & Serve
- Add a dollop of extra Cool Whip and fresh mint for a pop of color.
- Slice with a warm knife for clean edges.
Health Benefits
This pie isn’t just delicious—it also offers some nutritional perks!
- Strawberries: Packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, they support immunity and skin health.
- Cool Whip (Lite Version): Lower in calories than heavy cream, making this dessert lighter.
- Graham Crackers (Whole Grain Option): Provides a modest amount of fiber compared to traditional pie crust.
For a healthier twist, swap in Greek yogurt-based whipped cream or a nut-based crust.
Variations & Swaps
- Vegan Version: Use coconut whipped cream and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute graham crackers with gluten-free crumbs or almond flour.
- Mixed Berry: Swap strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or a medley.
- Chocolate Lover’s: Add a layer of chocolate ganache under the filling.
Serving & Storage Tips
- Best served chilled within 1 day for optimal texture.
- Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days (though the crust may soften slightly).
- Freezing? Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month (thaw in fridge before serving).
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Fresh is best, but if using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid to prevent a soggy pie.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes! Prep the crust and filling a day in advance, but add strawberries just before serving.
Q: What can I use instead of marshmallow fluff?
A: Substitute with 1 cup powdered sugar + 1 tbsp milk, though the texture will be denser.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cool Whip Pie is proof that effortless desserts can be both luxurious and light. With its creamy filling, buttery crust, and vibrant strawberry topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, this recipe guarantees a showstopping dessert with minimal effort. So grab your ingredients and indulge in a slice of summer sweetness!
