No bake strawberry treat
No bake strawberry treat is a easy American recipe that serves 12. 180 calories per serving. Recipe by Justine's Kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 20 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 30 min
Cost: $52.65 total, $4.39 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Strawberry Frosting (store‑bought, pink frosting)
- 8 oz Cool Whip (fully thawed, whole container)
- 1 box Jell‑O Cheesecake Pudding Mix (cheesecake flavor, about 3.4 oz)
- 12 oz Cold Milk (whole milk preferred)
- 12 pieces Mini Graham Cracker Crusts (pre‑made, found at Walmart)
- 12 slices Fresh Strawberries (thinly sliced for garnish)
Instructions
Combine Strawberry Frosting and Cool Whip
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup strawberry frosting and the entire 8‑oz container of fully thawed Cool Whip until smooth and light pink.
Time: PT5M
Make Cheesecake Pudding
In a second mixing bowl, whisk the whole box of Jell‑O cheesecake pudding mix with 12 oz cold milk until the mixture thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
Time: PT5M
Combine Frosting and Pudding
Gently fold the strawberry‑Cool Whip mixture into the cheesecake pudding until fully incorporated, being careful not to over‑mix.
Time: PT3M
Fill Graham Cracker Crusts
Spoon a generous amount of the combined mixture into each mini graham cracker crust, smoothing the top.
Time: PT5M
Add Strawberry Garnish
Place a fresh strawberry slice on top of each mini pie for color and flavor.
Time: PT2M
Chill the Mini Pies
Refrigerate the assembled mini pies for 1–2 hours until set.
Time: PT0M
Temperature: 4°C
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 180
- Protein
- 2 g
- Carbohydrates
- 20 g
- Fat
- 9 g
- Fiber
- 0.5 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Contains dairy, Contains gluten
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten, Eggs (in pudding mix)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Strawberry Frosting: Raspberry frosting, Homemade strawberry frosting
- Instead of Cool Whip: Homemade whipped cream, Other whipped topping
- Instead of Jell‑O Cheesecake Pudding Mix: Instant cheesecake pudding mix, Homemade cheesecake pudding
- Instead of Cold Milk: 2% milk, Almond milk (may affect texture)
- Instead of Mini Graham Cracker Crusts: Homemade mini graham crusts, Other cookie crusts
- Instead of Fresh Strawberries: Strawberry jam, Other fresh berries
Equipment Needed
- Whisk
- Mixing Bowl
- Second Mixing Bowl
- Rubber Spatula
- Measuring Cup
- Knife
- Refrigerator
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Whisking strawberry frosting with fully thawed Cool Whip to achieve a smooth pink base.
- Thickening the Jell‑O cheesecake pudding with cold milk.
- Refrigerating the assembled pies for proper setting.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a piping bag fitted with a large round tip for a neat, uniform fill.
- For extra shine, brush the strawberry tops with a thin layer of melted strawberry jam.
- If you prefer a tangier flavor, substitute half of the strawberry frosting with a light cream cheese frosting.
Troubleshooting
Mixture is too runny and won’t set.
Chill the mixture for an additional 30 minutes or add 1‑2 tbsp extra pudding mix dissolved in a splash of milk.
Mixture becomes too thick to fill the crusts.
Stir in a tablespoon of cold milk at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Crusts become soggy.
Allow the pies to set fully in the refrigerator before adding the strawberry garnish, and serve soon after chilling.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture may change.
Room temperature: Do not keep at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the pink frosting‑pudding mixture a day ahead and keep it refrigerated; assemble pies just before serving.
- If you need to store longer, keep the filled pies covered tightly and consume within 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Pies in American dessert tradition?
Mini strawberry cheesecake pies are a modern, no‑bake twist on classic American cheesecake, reflecting the popularity of convenient, bite‑size desserts for parties and potlucks. They combine the beloved flavors of strawberry and cheesecake with the convenience of pre‑made graham cracker crusts, a trend that grew with the rise of ready‑made toppings like Cool Whip in the 1990s.
What are the traditional regional variations of strawberry cheesecake desserts in the United States?
In the U.S., strawberry cheesecake often appears as a full‑size baked cheesecake with a graham cracker crust, while regional variations include layered parfaits, frozen cheesecake bars, and mini no‑bake pies like this recipe. Southern versions may add a drizzle of strawberry glaze, whereas West Coast styles might incorporate fresh berries and lighter whipped toppings.
How is Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Pie traditionally served in American gatherings?
These mini pies are typically served chilled on a platter as a bite‑size dessert at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or casual brunches. They are often presented with a fresh strawberry slice on top and sometimes accompanied by a drizzle of strawberry or chocolate sauce for extra flair.
What occasions or celebrations are Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Pies traditionally associated with in American culture?
Mini strawberry cheesecake pies are popular for birthdays, baby showers, Fourth of July picnics, and holiday cookie swaps. Their portable size makes them ideal for potluck contributions and dessert tables where guests can easily pick up a single serving.
What authentic traditional ingredients are used in a classic American strawberry cheesecake versus the shortcuts in this Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Pie recipe?
A classic American strawberry cheesecake uses cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and a baked graham cracker crust, topped with fresh strawberries or a glaze. This mini version shortcuts the cream cheese with strawberry frosting and Cool Whip, and uses instant Jell‑O cheesecake pudding for quick thickening, while still delivering the familiar flavor profile.
What other American desserts pair well with Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Pies?
Mini strawberry cheesecake pies pair nicely with other light desserts such as lemon bars, fruit tarts, or chocolate mousse cups. For a balanced dessert table, serve them alongside fresh fruit salads or a simple vanilla bean panna cotta.
What makes Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Pies special or unique in American no‑bake dessert cuisine?
These pies stand out because they combine the airy lightness of Cool Whip with the tangy richness of cheesecake pudding, all in a ready‑made graham cracker shell. The use of strawberry frosting adds a vibrant pink hue and sweet fruit flavor without the need for fresh puree or cooking.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Pies?
Common mistakes include using partially frozen Cool Whip, which creates lumps; not whisking the pudding mix long enough, resulting in a runny filling; and over‑filling the crusts, which can cause the edges to become soggy. Follow the timing guidelines and chill the pies fully for the best texture.
Why does this Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Pie recipe use Cool Whip instead of homemade whipped cream?
Cool Whip is used for its stability and convenience; it holds its shape longer at refrigerator temperatures than homemade whipped cream, which can deflate. This ensures the mini pies stay firm and retain their light, airy texture throughout storage and serving.
What does the YouTube channel Justine's Kitchen specialize in?
The YouTube channel Justine's Kitchen specializes in quick, family‑friendly recipes that require minimal cooking equipment and often feature ready‑made or shortcut ingredients for busy home cooks. Justine focuses on approachable desserts, snacks, and everyday meals with clear step‑by‑step demonstrations.
How does the YouTube channel Justine's Kitchen's approach to American dessert cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Justine's Kitchen emphasizes no‑bake and shortcut techniques, using products like Cool Whip and instant pudding mixes to dramatically cut preparation time. While many channels showcase traditional baking methods, Justine often highlights pantry staples and store‑bought components to make desserts accessible for cooks with limited time or equipment.
Last updated: August 18, 2026
