Quick and Easy Cream Cheese Pie – A Sweet Delight for Any Occasion
This delightful Quick and Easy Cream Cheese Pie is a cherished family recipe that has been passed down for generations. Whether it’s for a family reunion, a casual get-together, or a potluck party, this dessert is always a hit. With a smooth, creamy filling and a sweet cherry topping, it’s a perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, and it’s ready in just 10 minutes! The best part? It requires minimal effort with just a few ingredients, yet the end result is nothing short of delicious.
Here’s how you can recreate this classic treat for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese (softened) | 2 (8 oz) packages |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Lemon juice concentrate | 1/3 cup |
| Cream of tartar | 1 to 2 teaspoons |
| Graham cracker pie crust | 2 (ready-made) |
| Cherry pie filling | 2 cans (16 oz each) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 257.7 kcal |
| Fat Content | 16.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 31.9 mg |
| Sodium | 243.3 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 24.1 g |
| Fiber | 0.3 g |
| Sugar | 15.9 g |
| Protein | 4.4 g |
Preparation Instructions:
Step 1: Start by softening the cream cheese. Place the two 8 oz packages of cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat the cream cheese in the microwave at 30-second intervals, checking and stirring after each interval. Continue until the cream cheese is softened to the consistency of soft butter—avoid melting it.
Step 2: Once the cream cheese is softened, combine it with the sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice concentrate in a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, blend the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Gradually add cream of tartar to the mixture, one teaspoon at a time, while blending. This will help to thicken and stiffen the mixture, giving it a luscious and firm texture. Continue blending until the mixture is thick and smooth.
Step 4: Pour the prepared mixture evenly into the two graham cracker pie crusts, spreading it out with a spatula to ensure it covers the base fully.
Step 5: Open your cans of cherry pie filling and gently spoon the filling over the top of the cream cheese mixture, using one can per pie. Spread the cherries evenly, making sure each slice gets a nice portion of the sweet fruit topping.
Step 6: At this point, your pies are ready to serve! While they can be enjoyed immediately after preparation, for a firmer texture, you can refrigerate them overnight to chill. The pies are also delicious if frozen, making them a great option to prepare ahead of time.
Step 7: Slice, serve, and enjoy the sweet, creamy goodness of this easy-to-make dessert!
Tips & Variations:
- Frozen Twist: If you’re looking for a fun variation, freeze the pies for a refreshing twist! The texture will be different, but still delightful—perfect for hot summer days.
- Topping Options: While cherry pie filling is a classic, feel free to get creative with other fruit toppings such as blueberries, strawberries, or even mixed berries.
- Crust Options: If you prefer a different crust, you can swap the graham cracker crust for an Oreo cookie crust for a more indulgent treat, or a nut-based crust for a gluten-free version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dessert is perfect when you’re short on time but still want to impress your guests.
- No Baking Required: This no-bake pie requires no oven time, making it a fantastic option for hot days or when you’re in need of a stress-free dessert.
- Perfect for Large Groups: With two pies made in one go, it’s ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or parties.
This Quick and Easy Cream Cheese Pie is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it also brings comfort and joy to any event with its creamy texture and sweet cherry topping. Try it today, and it might just become your go-to dessert for every occasion!
