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This Strawberry Crunch Pie brings fresh strawberry flavor with a crisp golden topping to every slice. Whenever I need a dessert that’s quick yet always impresses a crowd, this pie never disappoints. Just a handful of easy supermarket finds is all it takes to make something special that feels like a summer celebration.
I started making this for family picnics and now everyone requests it for their birthdays The creamy filling with crunchy topping reminds me of my favorite childhood ice cream bar but even better homemade
Ingredients
- Graham cracker pie crust: The perfect sweet base Pick one that smells fresh and is not cracked
- Golden Oreos: For the signature crunch Use a new pack so they are crisp
- Strawberry Flavor Jello: For bright color and fruity punch Opt for a big name brand for robust flavor
- Vanilla Pudding: Makes the filling creamy Use the instant kind for no-fuss prep and check expiration for best setting
- Milk: Blends with the pudding I like whole milk for silkier texture
- Heavy whipping cream: Adds richness Fresh cream will whip up thick and hold shape best
- Cool Whip: Makes topping light and cloudlike Thawed properly it spreads like a dream
- Fresh Strawberries: Bright and refreshing Choose berries with shiny skin and a sweet scent
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pulse the Crunch:
- Place Golden Oreos and strawberry powder into a large food processor Blend until the cookies form fine crumbs with the powder fully distributed
- Mix the Creamy Filling:
- In a separate large mixing bowl combine the vanilla pudding powder milk and heavy cream Beat with a hand mixer until you see soft peaks and the pudding feels thick and fluffy Gently fold in half of your cookie crumb mixture with a spatula taking care not to deflate the filling
- Fill the Crust:
- Spoon your creamy mixture evenly into the graham cracker crust Use the back of a spoon to create a smooth even layer all the way to the edges
- Top with Whipped Topping:
- Carefully spread Cool Whip on top of the pudding filling covering edge to edge For the gentlest finish use an offset spatula
- Add Strawberry Crunch:
- Sprinkle the remaining Oreo and Jello crumbs generously over the Cool Whip Scatter diced fresh strawberries on top for a pop of freshness
- Chill and Serve:
- Place the pie in the refrigerator uncovered for at least four hours for the creamiest slices When chilled cut with a sharp knife for clean layers and serve cold
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My favorite part is the crunchy topping It reminds me of sharing strawberry shortcake bars at our family reunions The fun mix of creamy and crispy always gets everyone talking at the table
Storage Tips
Store the pie in the fridge covered loosely with plastic wrap to prevent condensation It will keep well for up to three days For best texture add strawberries just before serving If you want to freeze individual slices wrap in plastic and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving
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Ingredient Substitutions
You can use gluten-free sandwich cookies in place of Golden Oreos Try using vanilla Greek yogurt in place of heavy cream for a slightly lighter pie If you do not have fresh strawberries thawed and patted dry frozen berries work in a pinch
Serving Suggestions
Serve each slice with a spoonful of extra berries on the side or a drizzle of strawberry syrup For a summer party add a scoop of vanilla ice cream along with the pie This pie also works well in mini tart shells for individual portions
Cultural or Historical Context
This pie is inspired by the classic strawberry shortcake ice cream bars popular at picnics and lunch counters in the US The crunchy cookie and bright fruit flavors are a nostalgic nod to summer desserts that bring everyone together Most home cooks who grew up in the Midwest or South will remember a similar dish at church potlucks
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely, frozen strawberries can be used—just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dessert to prevent excess moisture.
- → What’s the best way to achieve a crunchy topping?
Blend Golden Oreos with strawberry gelatin powder until crumbly, then sprinkle over the whipped topping and fresh berries just before serving for maximum crunch.
- → How far in advance can I prepare this dessert?
You can assemble it up to a day ahead, but add the crunchy topping close to serving time to maintain its crisp texture.
- → Which cream works best for the filling?
Heavy whipping cream gives the filling its rich, smooth character, blending nicely with the pudding and enhancing the dessert’s creaminess.
- → Is baking required for this pie?
No baking is needed. The pie is assembled with ready-made crust and chilled in the refrigerator until set, making preparation simple and quick.
- → Can I use different cookies for the crumb topping?
Yes, other vanilla sandwich cookies or graham crackers can be used, but Golden Oreos provide the signature flavor and texture.