There is something truly magical about a dessert that combines the fresh, vibrant sweetness of strawberries with the creamy indulgence of a no-bake treat, and that’s exactly what you get with the Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe. This pie captures all the nostalgic flavors of strawberry shortcake but in an easy, freezer-ready format that’s perfect for warm weather or anytime you want a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing dessert. From the buttery shortbread crust to the luscious strawberry-studded filling, each bite offers a perfect harmony of texture and taste that will make this your go-to recipe for summer gatherings or simple family treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple yet essential ingredients is all it takes to create this delicious Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe. Each component plays a vital role in delivering the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and fruity flavors while providing the ideal structure and color to this showstopper dessert.
- 2 cups crushed shortbread cookies or golden Oreos: Provides a rich, buttery base with a slight crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- 6 tablespoons melted butter: Binds the crust together to form a firm, golden foundation for the pie.
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped: Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color to the filling, giving it a fresh, summery burst.
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened: Creates a smooth, creamy texture that’s key to the pie’s luscious filling.
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk: Sweetens the filling naturally while contributing to its rich, silky consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor depth with a warm, aromatic note.
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed: Lightens the filling, offering a fluffy, airy finish.
- Extra crushed cookies and strawberries for topping (optional): Adds flair and texture, making the pie even more inviting when served.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining your crushed shortbread cookies or golden Oreos with the melted butter. Mix until all the crumbs are well coated and the mixture holds together when pressed. Firmly press this buttery mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. This crust forms the deliciously crisp and flavorful base of your freezer pie. Pop the crust in the freezer so it can set while you prepare the filling, ensuring a firm foundation later on.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This step is essential to avoid lumps and achieve that perfect silky texture. Add in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, then beat again until the mixture becomes fully combined and creamy. This combination brings richness and just the right touch of sweetness that’s characteristic of classic strawberry shortcake flavors.
Step 3: Fold in Whipped Topping and Strawberries
Gently fold in the whipped topping, which adds a lovely lightness to the dense cream cheese mixture. After that, carefully stir in the chopped fresh strawberries, spreading their juicy bursts throughout the filling. The goal here is to maintain the filling’s fluffy texture while incorporating the strawberries evenly, so every bite offers a refreshing fruity pop.
Step 4: Assemble and Freeze
Pour the luscious filling into your frozen crust and spread it evenly, smoothing out the top with a spatula for an inviting finish. If desired, sprinkle extra crushed cookies and fresh strawberry slices over the pie to create a picture-perfect presentation that teases the flavors within. Cover the pie and place it in the freezer for at least 4 to 6 hours, or until the filling is firm and set. This freezing time is what transforms your simple ingredients into an irresistible, sliceable dessert.
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A slice of Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie looks even more mouthwatering when topped with a dollop of whipped cream, a few fresh strawberry slices, and a sprinkle of crushed shortbread cookies. These garnishes not only elevate the visual appeal but also add complementary textures and flavors, making each slice feel like a celebration of fresh and creamy deliciousness.
Side Dishes
Pairing this pie with a cup of light tea or a glass of bubbly lemonade highlights the berry flavors beautifully. For a heartier dessert experience, consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to add an indulgent touch that your guests will love.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve individual mini pies in mason jars for a charming, portable dessert. You could also layer the filling and crushed cookies in clear parfait glasses to showcase the pie’s gorgeous layers. Either way, this Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe shines whether on a casual family table or a festive summer party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pie can be kept covered in the freezer for up to one week without losing flavor or texture. When properly wrapped, the pie maintains its creamy filling and crisp crust, so every bite stays just as divine as the first.
Freezing
This pie is made to be frozen. After assembling, freeze it at least 4 to 6 hours until firm. It’s a fantastic dessert to prepare ahead of time, taking the stress out of party planning and giving you more time to enjoy with loved ones.
Reheating
Since this is a frozen dessert, reheating is not necessary. Instead, let the pie sit at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This softens it just enough for perfect slices, while still keeping the refreshing chilled texture that makes it so special.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries in this Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the strawberries well before adding them to the filling. This helps prevent extra moisture from making the pie watery.
What can I substitute for the shortbread cookie crust?
If you prefer, you can use graham crackers or golden Oreos as a delicious alternative. Each option brings its own unique flavor, but shortbread works best for that buttery, tender base.
How long does this pie need to freeze to set properly?
A minimum of 4 to 6 hours is recommended to ensure the filling firms up nicely. Overnight freezing is even better if you want to make it well in advance.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this strawberry shortcake freezer pie recipe is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat or gelatin products.
Can I make this pie dairy-free or vegan?
This recipe relies heavily on dairy ingredients like cream cheese and whipped topping, so it’s challenging to make it vegan without significant substitutions. However, experimenting with dairy-free cream cheese and coconut-based whipped toppings could work, though the texture may differ.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe is a true gem that brings together the best of summer flavors with effortless preparation. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a creamy, fruity dessert but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and see how easy and satisfying a no-bake freezer pie can be. You’re going to love every bite!
Print
Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and easy-to-make Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie featuring a buttery shortbread cookie crust, creamy cream cheese and condensed milk filling, and fresh strawberries folded into whipped topping. Perfect for a no-bake summer dessert that you can prepare ahead and enjoy chilled.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups crushed shortbread cookies or golden Oreos
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
Filling
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
Topping (Optional)
- Extra crushed cookies
- Extra fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a bowl, combine crushed shortbread cookies or golden Oreos with the melted butter until the mixture is well combined. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Place the crust in the freezer to set while you prepare the filling.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and creamy.
- Incorporate whipped topping and strawberries: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture to maintain its light texture. Then, carefully stir in the chopped fresh strawberries until evenly distributed throughout the filling.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the prepared filling into the frozen crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. For added texture and flavor, sprinkle extra crushed cookies and fresh strawberries over the top if desired.
- Freeze the pie: Cover the pie and place it in the freezer for at least 4 to 6 hours, or until the filling is firm and set.
- Serve: Before serving, let the pie sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes to soften slightly for easier slicing and enhanced flavor. Slice into 8 pieces and enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available; just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- This freezer pie maintains its quality for up to 1 week when stored properly in the freezer.
