A perfect cream cheese pie is rich, creamy, and has a smooth texture. It’s often sweetened and can be flavored in various ways. Here’s a basic recipe for a classic cream cheese pie:
Ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 16 ounces (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
For Topping (Optional):
- Fresh berries, fruit compote, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel sauce
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan to form the crust. You can use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to help create an even layer.
- Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined and fluffy.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream or whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream; use a gentle folding motion.
3. Assemble the Pie:
- Remove the crust from the refrigerator and spoon the cream cheese filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
4. Chill the Pie:
- Place the pie in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. Chilling allows the pie to set and flavors to meld.
5. Add Toppings (Optional):
- Before serving, you can add your choice of toppings. Fresh berries, fruit compote, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel sauce are all excellent options.
6. Slice and Serve:
- Use a sharp knife to slice the cream cheese pie into portions.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
This classic cream cheese pie is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s creamy, slightly tangy, and pairs well with a variety of toppings. Customize it to your liking and savor each bite.
