Real Strawberry Pie With French Cream Topping Recipe

Ingredients for Real Strawberry Pie With French Cream Topping

• Frozen Strawberries
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup cold water
• Unflavored Gelatin
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• a pinch of salt
• Fresh Strawberries
• Pie Shells
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• Vanilla Extract
• Heavy Cream

How to Make Real Strawberry Pie With French Cream Topping

1. Cook 2 pints frozen strawberries in a large saucepan over medium-low heat until they release their juices (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Increase heat to medium-high. Stir frequently and cook until the mixture reaches a jam-like consistency, about 10-15 minutes.
3. Reduce the mixture to exactly 2 cups. If necessary, continue cooking until it reaches the desired volume.
4. While the berries cook, combine 1 packet (1 tablespoon) of unflavored gelatin, ¼ cup cold water, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice in a small bowl. Let stand until softened and thickened (about 5 minutes).
5. Add the gelatin mixture, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt to the cooked berry mixture. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
6. Transfer the filling to a bowl and let cool to room temperature (about 30 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent skin formation.
7. Gently fold in 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries into the cooled filling. Pour the mixture into your pre-baked 9-inch pie shell.
8. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours, to allow the filling to set completely.
9. For the French Cream Topping: Beat 4 ounces cream cheese, ¼ cup powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
10. With the mixer running, gradually add 1 cup heavy whipping cream and beat until stiff peaks form.
11. Serve the chilled pie generously topped with the French cream topping.
12. For a lower-calorie topping: Use 4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese and fold in 1 cup Cool Whip Lite or a similar light whipped topping.