Cloud Nine Strawberry Pie: A Fluffy Dream Come True

Is there anything more evocative of summer than a ripe, juicy strawberry? Now, imagine that quintessential summer flavor transformed into a light-as-air, utterly irresistible pie. This isn’t your grandma’s heavy, custard-filled strawberry pie. This is a Cloud Nine Strawberry Pie – a fluffy, dreamy creation that will have you floating on a sugary sweet cloud. Prepare yourself for a symphony of textures and flavors, where a crisp, buttery crust meets a tangy-sweet strawberry filling and a cloud-like whipped topping. This recipe is surprisingly simple to make, but the result is nothing short of spectacular. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s bake a pie that will be the star of any summer gathering!

Why This Strawberry Pie is Different

Traditional strawberry pies often rely on a dense custard or gelatin-based filling, which can sometimes feel heavy and cloying. This Cloud Nine Strawberry Pie takes a different approach. The filling is light and airy, thanks to the incorporation of whipped cream and cream cheese. This creates a mousse-like texture that perfectly complements the sweetness of the strawberries. The crust is also key – we’re opting for a classic pie crust that provides a delightful textural contrast to the fluffy filling.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the instructions, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients for the crust, filling, and topping:

**For the Crust:**

* 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* ½ teaspoon salt
* ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* ¼ cup cold vegetable shortening, cut into cubes
* 5-7 tablespoons ice water

**For the Strawberry Filling:**

* 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
* ½ cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch
* ¼ cup water
* 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
* 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup heavy cream, chilled

**For the Whipped Topping:**

* 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
* ¼ cup powdered sugar
* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
* Fresh strawberries, for garnish (optional)

Equipment You’ll Need

* 9-inch pie plate
* Mixing bowls (various sizes)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Pastry blender or food processor (optional, for making the crust)
* Rolling pin
* Whisk or electric mixer
* Saucepan

Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Your Cloud Nine Strawberry Pie

Now, let’s get baking! Follow these detailed instructions to create your own slice of strawberry heaven.

Part 1: Making the Pie Crust

1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. **Cut in the Fat:** Add the cold butter and shortening to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the fat into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter and shortening should be in small, visible pieces – this is what creates a flaky crust.
3. **Add Ice Water:** Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Continue adding water until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this will develop the gluten in the flour and result in a tough crust.
4. **Form a Disc:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently form it into a disc, about 1 inch thick. Wrap the disc tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.
5. **Roll Out the Dough:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate, gently pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to create a decorative border.
6. **Pre-Bake the Crust:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the pie crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. This will prevent the crust from puffing up during baking. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the parchment paper and pie weights. Bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown. Let the crust cool completely before filling.

Part 2: Preparing the Strawberry Filling

1. **Combine Strawberries and Sugar:** In a medium bowl, gently toss the sliced strawberries with the granulated sugar. Let the strawberries sit for about 15-20 minutes, allowing them to release their juices. This will create a flavorful strawberry syrup.
2. **Make the Cornstarch Slurry:** In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. This will help thicken the strawberry filling.
3. **Cook the Strawberries:** Transfer the strawberry mixture to a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the strawberries are softened and the juices have thickened slightly.
4. **Add the Cornstarch Slurry:** Pour the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan and stir constantly. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, or until the filling has thickened and is glossy. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
5. **Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:** In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
6. **Whip the Heavy Cream:** In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can turn the cream into butter.
7. **Combine the Filling:** Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream. This is what gives the filling its light and airy texture.
8. **Fold in the Strawberries:** Gently fold the cooled strawberry mixture into the cream cheese mixture. Be sure to distribute the strawberries evenly throughout the filling.

Part 3: Assembling and Chilling the Pie

1. **Fill the Crust:** Pour the strawberry filling into the cooled pre-baked pie crust. Spread the filling evenly.
2. **Chill the Pie:** Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the filling to set completely and the flavors to meld together.

Part 4: Making the Whipped Topping and Garnishing

1. **Prepare the Whipped Topping:** In a chilled bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
2. **Top the Pie:** Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled pie. You can use a piping bag to create a decorative design, or simply spread it with a spatula.
3. **Garnish (Optional):** Garnish the pie with fresh sliced strawberries, if desired.
4. **Serve:** Slice and serve immediately. This pie is best served cold.

Tips for Success

* **Use Cold Ingredients:** When making the pie crust, it’s crucial to use cold butter, shortening, and ice water. This helps prevent the gluten from developing too much, resulting in a flaky crust.
* **Don’t Overmix the Dough:** Overmixing the pie crust dough will result in a tough crust. Mix just until the dough comes together.
* **Chill the Dough:** Chilling the pie crust dough allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out and preventing it from shrinking during baking.
* **Pre-Bake the Crust:** Pre-baking the crust prevents it from becoming soggy when filled with the moist strawberry filling.
* **Let the Strawberry Filling Cool:** Make sure the strawberry filling is completely cool before folding it into the cream cheese mixture. This will prevent the whipped cream from melting.
* **Don’t Overwhip the Cream:** Overwhipping the cream will turn it into butter. Whip just until stiff peaks form.
* **Chill the Pie Thoroughly:** Chilling the pie for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, allows the filling to set completely and the flavors to meld together.

Variations and Substitutions

* **Different Crust:** If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought graham cracker crust or a pre-made pie crust.
* **Different Berries:** You can substitute other berries for the strawberries, such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. You can even use a combination of berries.
* **Lemon Zest:** Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the strawberry filling for a bright, citrusy flavor.
* **Almond Extract:** Substitute almond extract for the vanilla extract in the cream cheese mixture for a subtle almond flavor.
* **Chocolate Shavings:** Garnish the pie with chocolate shavings for a decadent touch.
* **Lower Sugar:** Reduce the sugar in both the filling and the topping to lower the overall sweetness.
* **Dairy-Free:** To make this pie dairy-free, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, dairy-free sweetened condensed milk, and coconut whipped cream.

Serving Suggestions

This Cloud Nine Strawberry Pie is a perfect dessert for any occasion. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **Summer Barbecues:** This pie is a refreshing and crowd-pleasing dessert for summer barbecues.
* **Potlucks:** Bring this pie to your next potluck – it’s sure to be a hit!
* **Birthday Parties:** This pie is a delicious and festive birthday dessert.
* **Holiday Gatherings:** This pie is a wonderful addition to your holiday dessert spread.
* **Simple Weeknight Dessert:** Even on a regular weeknight, this pie is a delightful way to end the day.
* **With a Scoop of Ice Cream:** Serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or strawberry sorbet for an extra-special treat.
* **With a drizzle of Chocolate Sauce:** Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent and irresistible dessert.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Cloud Nine Strawberry Pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. The whipped topping may start to soften after a day or two.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

* **Can I freeze this pie?** While you can freeze this pie, the texture of the whipped topping may change slightly. It’s best to freeze the pie before adding the whipped topping. Thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight and then add the whipped topping before serving.
* **Can I make this pie ahead of time?** Yes, you can make the crust and the strawberry filling ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the pie. The pie is best assembled and chilled at least 4 hours before serving.
* **My crust shrank during baking. What did I do wrong?** Shrinking crust is often caused by not chilling the dough long enough or by overworking the dough. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes and avoid overmixing.
* **My filling is too runny. What did I do wrong?** A runny filling is usually caused by not cooking the strawberry mixture long enough or by not using enough cornstarch. Make sure to cook the strawberry mixture until it thickens and use the correct amount of cornstarch.
* **My whipped cream is grainy. What did I do wrong?** Grainy whipped cream is usually caused by overwhipping. Be careful not to overwhip the cream.

Conclusion

This Cloud Nine Strawberry Pie is a truly special dessert. With its light and airy filling, crisp crust, and sweet strawberry flavor, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, go ahead and bake this pie – you won’t regret it! It’s the perfect way to celebrate summer and enjoy the deliciousness of fresh strawberries. Happy baking!