Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Cool Whip Pie is a delightful combination of sweet, creamy filling and fresh strawberries. It requires only a handful of ingredients and no baking, making it a stress-free option for busy days. The Cool Whip provides a light, airy texture, while the strawberries offer a burst of flavor. Plus, the graham cracker crust gives it a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft filling. It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that is both delicious and easy to prepare!

Ingredients

1 graham cracker pie crust (9-inch)
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
1 cup boiling water
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
½ cup powdered sugar

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a medium-sized bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir well and allow it to cool slightly.
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Add the Cool Whip to the cream cheese mixture and stir until fully combined.
Slowly add the cooled gelatin mixture to the cream cheese and Cool Whip mixture, stirring gently until everything is well blended.
Fold in the sliced strawberries, being careful not to break them up too much.
Pour the mixture into the graham cracker pie crust and spread it evenly.
Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until the filling has set and the pie is firm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 slices
Prep time: 15 minutes
Refrigeration time: 4 hours minimum

Variations

Fruit Options: You can swap strawberries for other berries, like raspberries or blueberries, to create a different flavor profile.
Crust: If you’re not a fan of graham cracker crust, try using a pre-made vanilla wafer or shortbread crust instead.
Add-ins: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, to the filling.
Gelatin: If you prefer a different flavor, you can use other types of gelatin, like raspberry or lemon, to switch up the taste of the pie.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the Strawberry Cool Whip Pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or foil, for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled.
Reheating: This pie is meant to be enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat it.

FAQs

1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, this pie can be made a day in advance and kept in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.

2. Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are preferred for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the pie.

3. Can I use light Cool Whip or fat-free cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute these lower-fat options for a lighter version of the pie, though the texture and flavor might be slightly different.

4. Can I use a different type of crust?

Absolutely! You can use a pre-made vanilla wafer crust, a shortbread crust, or even a chocolate cookie crust if you prefer a different taste.

5. How do I prevent the filling from being too runny?

Make sure to allow the gelatin to cool slightly before adding it to the cream cheese mixture. Additionally, refrigerating the pie for a sufficient amount of time will ensure the filling sets properly.

6. How long should I refrigerate the pie?

For best results, refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours. This will allow the filling to firm up and the flavors to meld together.

7. Can I use a different type of gelatin?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of gelatin, such as raspberry or lemon, to change the flavor of the pie.

8. Can I make this pie without gelatin?

Gelatin helps to set the pie and give it structure. If you don’t want to use gelatin, consider using a store-bought pudding mix or a cornstarch-based thickener instead.

9. How do I get the pie out of the pan?

For easier serving, you can gently run a knife around the edge of the crust before cutting. Alternatively, consider using a springform pan if you want to make a more elegant presentation.

10. Can I freeze this pie?

Yes, you can freeze this pie. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator for several hours before serving.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cool Whip Pie is an effortless dessert that delivers a refreshing and flavorful treat for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and no baking required, it’s perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Whether you stick with the classic strawberry version or get creative with different variations, this pie is sure to be a hit with everyone!