Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (14 ounce) can (397g) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
  • 1 pound (450g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) strawberry jam
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) water (Optional, for a shinier glaze)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the pie plate. Chill in the refrigerator.
  2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk, mixing until well combined. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract.
  3. Pour and Chill: Pour the cream cheese filling into the prepared graham cracker crust. Spread evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to set.
  4. Prepare the Strawberry Topping: Arrange sliced strawberries artfully on top of the chilled cream cheese filling.
  5. (Optional) Make Strawberry Glaze: In a small saucepan, heat strawberry jam and water over low heat, stirring until smooth. Brush over the strawberries for a glossy finish.
  6. Serve: Slice and serve chilled. Garnish with extra strawberries, if desired.