Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie is the ultimate warm-weather dessert that delivers everything you love about classic strawberry shortcake in a cool, creamy, no-bake form. With a silky strawberry filling that tastes like strawberry ice cream, a crunchy cookie crust, and buttery strawberry-and-vanilla crumbles on top, this pie is pure nostalgia with a modern twist. Each bite is light, refreshing, and bursting with real strawberry flavor, making it nearly impossible to stop at just one slice.
If you’re searching for easy dessert ideas that feel indulgent but require minimal effort, this freezer pie checks every box. It’s perfect for busy families, summer parties, holidays, and anyone who loves simple family recipes without turning on the oven for hours. Using affordable ingredients like whipped cream, sweetened condensed milk, and fresh strawberry puree, this recipe is proof that healthy cooking at home can still include show-stopping desserts that feel bakery-worthy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• A no-bake dessert recipe perfect for hot weather
• Budget-friendly meal ingredients that stretch far
• Family comfort food with a nostalgic strawberry shortcake vibe
• Ideal make-ahead dessert for parties and gatherings
• Beginner-friendly cooking with simple steps
• Creamy, dreamy texture similar to strawberry ice cream
Ingredient Breakdown
Heavy Whipping Cream – Whipped to stiff peaks, this creates the light, airy base that gives the freezer pie its ice-cream-like texture.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream smoothly without any graininess.
Cream Cheese – Adds richness and structure to the filling while balancing sweetness with a slight tang.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – Provides sweetness and creaminess while helping the pie freeze beautifully without becoming icy.
Strawberry Puree – The star ingredient, delivering fresh, fruity flavor and natural color for an authentic strawberry shortcake taste.
Prepared Vanilla Wafer or Cookie Crust – Saves time and adds a buttery crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
Strawberry Gelatin – Used in the crumbles to add flavor, color, and that classic strawberry shortcake crunch.
All-Purpose Flour – Helps form the crumb topping structure; gluten-free flour works well for substitutions.
Butter – Brings richness and helps create tender, crumbly texture in both strawberry and vanilla crumbles.
Sugar and Vanilla – Enhance the vanilla crumble layer with classic bakery-style sweetness.
Pro Tips
Make sure the whipped cream reaches very stiff peaks so the filling sets properly in the freezer.
Always use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the strawberry filling.
Cool the crumbles completely before storing to keep them crisp.
Freeze the pie uncovered for the first hour, then cover to prevent freezer burn.
Let the pie sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing for clean cuts.
Ingredient Swaps or Variations
For gluten-free recipes, use gluten-free flour in the crumbles and a gluten-free cookie crust.
For a lighter version, reduce the strawberry puree slightly for a creamier, ice-cream-style filling.
Swap strawberries for raspberries or mixed berries for a different flavor twist.
Use chocolate cookie crust for a chocolate-strawberry variation.
Add a layer of sliced fresh strawberries under the crumbles for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie slightly softened for the best texture. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of strawberry syrup. This dessert shines at summer BBQs, baby showers, potlucks, and holiday gatherings. It’s also perfect as an easy party food idea when you want something impressive but stress-free.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
This is one of the best freezer desserts for meal prep ideas. The pie can be made up to one week in advance and stored tightly covered in the freezer. Store the crumbles separately in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate for longer freshness. Leftover slices can be wrapped individually and frozen, making this a fantastic healthy lunch prep dessert for sweet cravings.
Cultural and Comfort Food Notes
Strawberry shortcake is a beloved American comfort food often served at summer celebrations, picnics, and holidays. This freezer pie version keeps the spirit of the traditional dessert while adapting it for modern kitchens that value convenience, make-ahead desserts, and no-bake recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert is ideal for making ahead and actually tastes better once fully frozen and set.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover pie slices tightly wrapped in the freezer for up to one week.
Can I make this recipe healthier?
You can reduce sugar slightly or use light cream cheese and whipped topping alternatives.
What substitutions work for gluten-free diets?
Use gluten-free flour in the crumbles and a gluten-free cookie crust.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw and drain them well before pureeing to avoid excess moisture.
Strawberry Shortcake Freezer Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix strawberry gelatin, 1/2 cup flour, and 1/4 cup butter until crumbly. In a separate bowl, mix remaining flour, sugar, butter, and vanilla until crumbly.
- Spread strawberry crumbles on one side of a parchment-lined baking sheet and vanilla crumbles on the other. Bake 7–8 minutes without stirring. Cool completely.
- Beat heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add condensed milk and mix well. Stir in strawberry puree.
- Gently fold strawberry mixture into whipped cream until fully combined.
- Pour filling into prepared crust. Freeze 4–5 hours until firm.
- Let pie thaw 10 minutes. Top with strawberry shortcake crumbles and slice.
