Need an effortless dessert that’s sweet, fruity, and guaranteed to impress? This No-Bake Strawberry Cream Cheese Jello Pie is a retro-inspired favorite with a refreshing twist—cool, creamy, and bursting with strawberry flavor.
Made with just a few simple ingredients, this chilled pie combines fluffy whipped topping, tangy cream cheese, and strawberry gelatin for a luscious, mousse-like texture in a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s perfect for summer parties, potlucks, or anytime you crave a no-bake treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No baking required—ideal for hot days
Light, fluffy, and fruity texture
Quick to assemble with only 6 main ingredients
Make-ahead friendly and easy to transport
Kid-approved and crowd-pleasing
Budget-friendly ingredients from your pantry or fridge
Ingredient Breakdown
Main Ingredients
Strawberry Jello (3 oz. box) – The fruity base that provides bold strawberry flavor and a vibrant pink color.
Boiling water (1 cup) – Dissolves the Jello for a smooth consistency.
Cream cheese (8 oz., softened) – Adds richness and a velvety texture. Ensure it’s fully softened to avoid lumps.
Whipped topping (8 oz. Cool Whip, thawed) – Creates the pie’s light and airy texture.
Graham cracker crust (9-inch) – A sweet, buttery base that complements the filling.
Optional Garnishes
Whipped cream
Fresh strawberries
Strawberry glaze
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Dissolve the Jello
In a large bowl, stir 1 cup of boiling water into the strawberry Jello powder until fully dissolved.
Let it cool for 10-15 minutes (it should still be liquid but not hot).
2. Blend in the Cream Cheese
Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Gradually pour in the slightly cooled Jello mixture while mixing on low speed until fully combined and creamy.
3. Fold in the Whipped Topping
Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until no streaks remain. Avoid overmixing to keep the filling light.
4. Assemble the Pie
Pour the filling into the graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results) until fully set.
5. Garnish & Serve
Before serving, top with whipped cream, sliced strawberries, or a drizzle of strawberry glaze for extra appeal.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
Use room-temperature cream cheese for the smoothest texture.
Let the Jello cool slightly before adding cream cheese to prevent curdling.
Fold in the whipped topping gently to maintain a light consistency.
Chill overnight for the best flavor and clean slices.
For added texture, mix in sliced strawberries before chilling.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
Try different Jello flavors like raspberry, cherry, or orange.
Use a chocolate or Oreo crust for a richer base.
Add crushed pineapple or mandarin oranges for a fruity twist.
Make it sugar-free with sugar-free Jello and light whipped topping.
Top with strawberry glaze for a glossy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled with fresh fruit on the side.
Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling rosé.
Make mini pies in individual graham crusts for parties.
Drizzle with chocolate or white chocolate sauce for extra decadence.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
Prepare the pie the night before for easy serving.
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For best texture, avoid freezing.
Add garnishes just before serving to keep them fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, use about 2 cups of stabilized whipped cream for best results.
What if I only have a deep-dish crust?
You can still use it, but the filling layer will be thinner unless you double the recipe.
Can I make this pie dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and a whipped coconut topping.
Will the pie set without gelatin?
No, gelatin is essential for the filling to firm up properly.
Can I add real strawberries to the filling?
Absolutely! Fold in ½ to 1 cup of chopped strawberries before chilling.
