Strawberry season has arrived. It’s high time to use strawberries during your sweet summer break to complete your lunch or dinner. Undoubtedly, recreating McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie is the best way to use those berries. This fruity cream pie is fresh, juicy, luscious, and stunningly delicious which is made with just seven simple ingredients.
This fresh strawberry cream pie is way better than your favorite restaurant pie. Our chef recreated this seasonal treat, which came out flaky and juicy with some extra indulgence. I must say, his efforts are worth appreciating. The reason is its fruity flavor with a smooth, velvety, and creamy texture.
The secret behind this perfection is he let the filling reach lukewarm before he poured it all over the fresh berries arranged in the baked pie shell. He specifies that just set it in the fridge to chill and forget it for a few hours until it’s the perfect texture to dig into.
Do you want to try this perfect treat? So, go ahead with this guide and follow the instructions carefully. This guide will answer your questions and help you throughout the baking process. So, without further ado, let’s indulge in making McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie.Â
What's In The Post
Is This The Exact McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie Recipe?
Yes, this is the exact McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie recipe. The only difference is we haven’t used any preservatives or color enhancers in our recipe to make it appealing. Our chef has used fresh and top-notch quality ingredients to make it perfect.
Other than this, the ingredients are very close, and the steps are followed thoroughly. The result is a buttery, flaky crust with rich, sweet strawberry filling. So, go through the steps thoroughly and enjoy the freshness of the berries all summer.
Does McDonald’s Still Have Strawberry Cream Pie On The McDonald’s Menu?
The strawberry and crème pie is available at McDonald’s locations for a limited time or while supplies last. The limited supply is due to the availability of seasonal fruit used in this baked pie.
You can get this seasonal treat ranging from $ 1.69 to $ 1.99. at your nearest McDonald’s. However, it is essential to check the prices of McDonald’s menus for updated and accurate costs.
Is This McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie Vegan Or Gluten Free?
McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie is very delicious and fulfilling. But it is not vegan and gluten friendly. The strawberry cream pie contains dairy-based ingredients, including cream, which makes it unsuitable for vegans or those avoiding dairy products.
But to make it vegan, you can use dairy-free creams such as almond or coconut cream. Besides this, use vegan sweeteners like maple syrup. So, it is necessary to go through the list of nutrition. If it’s unsuitable, look for a vegan-free menu option.
Moving forward, sadly, this fruit pie is not considered gluten-free. The crust of the pie contains wheat flour, which is not gluten-free. Therefore, individuals who are intolerant to gluten or have celiac disease should avoid McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie and go for gluten-free menu items.Â
However, if you are preparing this pie at home, you can make it gluten-free by opting for the gluten-free crust and using gluten-free thickeners like cornstarch, tapioca starch, arrowroot starch, or potato starch.
Equipment Required For McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie
- Oven – Bake the prepared pie in the oven until the crust is lightly browned and crispy.
- Mixing Bowls – You’ll need mixing bowls to prepare the different pie fillings.
- Stand Mixer – Whip the cream topping with a stand mixer to create a smooth and fluffy consistency.
- Spatula – A spatula is needed to spread the filling evenly to ensure no wasted ingredients.
- Rolling Pin – A rolling pin will help roll the dough to the desired thickness.
- Cooling Rack – Once the pie is baked, cool it on a cooling rack to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
- Knife – A sharp chef’s knife is needed to cut the dough into rectangles, make a slit, and serve the pie slices once it has cooled.
McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie Ingredients
- Pie Crust – Use pie crust, the base of this recipe which will hold the filling, yielding a flaky pie. It is usually made from flour, vegetable shortening, water, sugar, and salt.
- Strawberries – The star ingredient of McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie are strawberries. Look for fresh and ripe strawberries to create a flavorful pie filling.
- Cream Cheese – Cream cheese is another key ingredient in this strawberry cream pie recipe. It has added a tangy and creamy element to the creamy filling when whipped, enhancing the overall flavor and providing a smoother texture.
- Vanilla Extract – I’ve added some vanilla extract to the creamy filling to enhance its floral and nutty flavor.
- Cornstarch – Use cornstarch as a thickening agent to thicken the pie filling.
- Sugar – Sugar is used to sweeten the strawberry puree and the creamy filling. Make sure to use enough sugar to reach the desired level of sweetness.
- Salt – Salt is added to strawberry and cream filling to enhance its flavors.
McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie Ingredients Substitutions
The ingredients used in this homemade version of McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie are basic. You can easily find them at the stores near you. Still, if you’re making a strawberry pie and find yourself missing some ingredients, go for these substitutions:
- Strawberries – Our chef has used fresh strawberries for the pie as it will add natural sweetness. However, if you can’t find fresh strawberries, use frozen strawberries that have been thawed and drained beforehand for the filling.
- Sugar – We have used granulated white sugar in this recipe. But you can also use brown sugar or coconut sugar for that sweetness.
- Cornstarch – We have added cornstarch to thicken the filling. If you can’t find it, replace it with an arrowroot in the same quantity. Alternatively, you can also use all-purpose flour, though it may affect its consistency.
- Pie Crust – For this recipe, we’ve used pre-made pie crust. If you are running out of time, go for store-bought crusts. Else, you can make your own curst by following various recipes available online. Besides this, use a graham cracker or cookie crust made from crushed cookies mixed with melted butter as a base for the pie.
- Vanilla Extract – Our chef has added a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a floral taste. If you can’t find it, either omit it or use other extracts for a different flavor profile.
Fresh Strawberries Or Frozen Strawberries For Strawberry Pie
Our chef recommended using fresh strawberries over frozen strawberries for making this strawberry pie. The reason stated by him is mentioned below. Scroll down to know these reasons:
| Basis | Fresh Strawberries | Frozen Strawberries |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | As per our chef, fresh strawberries are firmer, adding a pleasant bite. | While he told us that since frozen strawberries are soft and mushy, they will result in runny pies when cooked and thawed. |
| Flavor | Fresh strawberries are known for their vibrant and intense flavors, so they add natural sweetness. | While frozen strawberries will add tartness to the pie. |
| Juiciness | Fresh strawberries are less juicy, which prevents the pie from becoming too watery and soggy. | Frozen strawberries are juicer, making your pie watery and soggy. |
| Appearance | As per our chef, fresh strawberries are visually appealing. Therefore, it helps in retaining the shape and color of the pie. | Since frozen strawberries are soft, when they are cooked and thawed, it will affect the overall appearance. |
Why Do You Need To Add Cornstarch To Your Strawberry Cream Pie?
This recipe calls for cornstarch as a thickening agent. When making a strawberry pie, the fruit releases its juices as it cooks. If not added, the filling can be too runny, making serving the pie challenging. Therefore, adding cornstarch serves several purposes:
- Cornstarch will absorb strawberry juice, thicken the filling, and help it set properly, creating a luscious, jam-like texture.
- The thickened filling will help prevent excess liquid from the crust, which can result in a soggy crust, ensuring that the pie crust remains flaky and crisp.
- The cornstarch helps infuse the natural flavors of the strawberries, making the pie taste more intense and delicious.
- The thickening will stabilize the pie, making it easier to cut and serve without the filling spilling out.
- Mixing cornstarch with the sugar and other ingredients before adding it to the strawberries is essential. It will ensure even distribution and prevent clumping.
McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie Preparation And Cooking Time
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 30 Minutes | 45 Minutes | 1 Hour 15 Minutes |
McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie Recipes Steps
1. Let’s Start With The Basics
Preheat your oven to 450°F and start by gathering all the ingredients, strawberry filling, and cream topping. Prepare the pie crust as per the instruction or a pre-made crust.
Roll the dough with a rolling pin onto a lightly floured surface and press it into a thin sheet. Now cut them into twelve rectangles, trimming any leftovers.
Moving forward, cut a small slit in six rectangles, allowing steam to escape. Keep it aside and prepare the filling, meanwhile.
2. Vibrant Fillings Are Devoured
Combine fresh, hulled, and sliced strawberries in a food processor with sugar and salt. Puree the mixture in equal intervals until the strawberries break down and release their juices, forming a thick and sweet filling.
Now, prepare the cream topping. Add a dollop of cream cheese with sugar, salt, and a splash of vanilla extract to prepare the topping in a bowl. With a hand mixer, whip the topping until soft peaks form.
3. Bake Until Crisped
Pour the strawberry filling on the rectangles with no slits, spreading it evenly. Moving forward, carefully pour the prepared creamy topping dollop over the strawberry filling. Use a spatula to spread and smooth the cream filling gently.
Cover each filled rectangle with a layer of other pieces of dough and use a fork to crimp the edges well. Now, it’s time to bake the prepared pie.
Place the pie in the oven and bake for fifteen to twenty minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the filling is set. Keep an eye on it to avoid the pie from overcooking.
Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing and serving.
Tips To Make McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie Better
This McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie is perfect on its own. Still, you can enhance its flavors or try something different. Below are some tips to make it even better:
- Fresh Strawberry Topping – Even after adding strawberries to the filling, consider garnishing some fresh sliced strawberries. It will intensify the strawberry flavor and provide a contrasting texture to the baked filling.
- Warm The Pie – If your pie is slightly cold, warm it in the microwave or oven to bring out the flavors and make it more enjoyable.
- Cream – Serve your McDonald’s strawberry pie with a dollop of your favorite ice cream or whipped cream. It will complement the pie’s sweetness and add a delightful touch and richness to each bite.
- Sprinkle Cinnamon – If you want to add a subtle spicy note that complements the sweetness of the strawberries, sprinkle a teaspoon of cinnamon in the filling.
- Other Fruits – Since the pie is strawberry-flavored, you can mix in blueberries or raspberries to create a delightful combination.
- Chocolate Sauce – Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the pie for a decadent twist.
Why Is My Strawberry Cream Pie Runny?
There could be various reasons for a runny strawberry pie. Some of them are:
- Undercooked – If the pie filling is not cooked long enough, the starch or thickener used in the recipe will activate properly to thicken the filling. It can result in excess liquid in the pie.
- Insufficient Thickening Agent – If you have added a thickening agent like cornstarch to help absorb excess liquid, use it in sufficient amounts. The pie may turn out runny if you don’t use enough thickener.
- Overripe Strawberries – If you have used very ripe strawberries for the filling, they will release more juice, making the pie filling watery. It’s best to use slightly firm, fresh strawberries for the pie.
- Incorrect Ratio – If the recipe doesn’t have enough sugar to balance the natural juiciness of the strawberries, the filling can become too runny.
- Not Letting The Filling To Set – After baking the pie, it’s necessary to let it cool. Cutting into the pie too soon can cause the filling to be runny.
- Thawed Frozen Strawberries – If you have used frozen strawberries, it is essential to drain excess liquid after thawing properly. Otherwise, they release more juice during baking, making the pie filling runny.
How Will This McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie Look And Taste Like?
This homemade version of McDonald’s strawberry pie has a golden-brown, flaky pastry crust. Its filling is very sweet, made with sweet strawberries, sugar, and a thickening agent to give it a consistent texture. The most appealing part is the vibrant red color of its filling.
Talking of its taste, it is fruity with a prominent strawberry flavor. The pastry crust adds a buttery and flaky texture which complements the fruity filling. It’s a perfect dessert for a sweet tooth.
Is McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie Healthy?
No, McDonald’s strawberry pie is not healthy. It tends to be high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and calories while lacking essential nutrients. So, consuming McDonald’s strawberry pie once in a blue moon is advised. Take a look at the table below for a better understanding.
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 34 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Total Fat | 16 g |
| Cholesterol | 10 mg |
| Sodium | 170 mg |
| Potassium | 80 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 13 g |
| Calcium | 30 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
These numbers justify that McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie is not healthy. That is why it is advised to check the nutritional value before ordering anything.
How To Store This McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie Properly?
To store strawberry pie properly and maintain its freshness, follow these steps:
- Suppose you plan to consume the strawberry pie after a few hours. In that case, keeping it at room temperature in a cool, dry place is safe by covering it loosely with a clean kitchen towel or aluminum foil to protect it from dust and debris.
- Refrigeration – To refrigerate, allow the pie to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, wrap the strawberry pie tightly with plastic or aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container for 2 to 3 days.
- Avoid Freezing – It’s not recommended to freeze a strawberry pie as it can affect the texture and quality of the pie, particularly the filling and the crust.
How To Reheat McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie Properly?
To reheat McDonald’s strawberry pie properly, follow these steps:
- If the pie is frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the strawberry pie on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish.
- Place the baking sheet containing the pie in the preheated oven. Reheat for 10 to 15 minutes or until the pie is heated.
- Allow the strawberry pie to cool for a minute or two before serving. The filling can become very hot, so be cautious.
What To Serve With McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie?
McDonald’s strawberry pie is a delicious dessert that pairs well with various accompaniments. Here are some options you can serve with McDonald’s strawberry pie:
- McDonald’s Iced Coffee – If you’re looking for a beverage pairing, McDonald’s iced coffee can complement the sweet and fruity flavors of the strawberry pie.
- McDonald’s Mocha Frappe – McDonald’s mocha frappe pairs perfectly with mocha frappe as it has sweet coffee flavors with a creamy texture. It serves up the rich, satisfying taste of chocolate and coffee.
- McDonald’s Sweet Tea – For those who prefer a chilled beverage during hot summer days, a cup of sweet tea can be an excellent accompaniment, balancing the pie’s sweetness.
- McDonald’s Southwest Salad – A side of salad with various fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi, can create a well-rounded and refreshing dessert experience.
Other McDonald’s Sweet Recipes To Try
It is the exact strawberry pie recipe from McDonald’s that we can make at home. This recipe has a fruity flavor and creamy texture. So, immediately try this recipe at home and enjoy the flavorful baked pie.
But if you want to try some more McDonald’s recipes at home, we have covered various McDonald’s copycat recipes. Some of them are McDonald’s McGriddle, McDonald’s Breakfast Bagel Recipe, McDonald’s Breakfast Sauce, McDonald’s Breakfast Burritos, and McDonald’s Egg McMuffin.
Recipe Card
McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing Bowls
- Hand Mixer
- Spatula
- Rolling Pin
- Cooling Rack
- Knife
Ingredients
- 15 ounces Refrigerated Pre-made Pie Crust
- 2 cups Strawberries (hulled and chopped)
- 8 ounces Low-Fat Cream Cheese
- 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
- 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
- 3½ tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F.
- Prepare the pie crust as per the instruction or a pre-made crust.
- Roll the dough with a rolling pin onto a lightly floured surface and press it into a thin sheet.
- Now cut them into twelve rectangles, trimming any leftovers.
- Moving forward, cut a small slit in six rectangles, allowing steam to escape.
- Keep it aside and prepare the filling, meanwhile.
- Combine fresh, hulled, and sliced strawberries in a food processor with sugar and salt.
- Puree the mixture in equal intervals until the strawberries break down and release their juices, forming a thick and sweet filling.
- Now, prepare the cream topping. Add a dollop of cream cheese with sugar, salt, and a splash of vanilla extract to prepare the topping in a bowl.
- With a hand mixer, whip the topping until soft peaks form.
- Pour the strawberry filling on the rectangles with no slits, spreading it evenly.
- Moving forward, carefully pour the prepared creamy topping dollop over the strawberry filling.
- Use a spatula to spread and smooth the cream filling gently.
- Cover each filled rectangle with a layer of other pieces of dough and use a fork to crimp the edges well.
- Now, it’s time to bake the prepared pie.
- Place the pie in the oven and bake for fifteen to twenty minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the filling is set.
- Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing and serving.
Video
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is my strawberry pie runny?
If your strawberry pie is runny, then it is possible that the filling needs to meet the right temperature to solidify the mixture, or it hasn’t pureed well.
How do you thicken a pie filling?
Add a spoonful of cornstarch if your filling is runny and you want to thicken it. Like flour, it will lend a semi-transparent look to the filling. It will also give the filling a starchy taste. To ensure it is fully cooked, the pie filling should bubble up through the crust before removing your pie from the oven.
Are there any allergens in McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie?
McDonald’s Strawberry Cream Pie typically contains wheat, dairy (cream), and possibly eggs. It’s important to note that the specific recipe and ingredients can vary, and there may be cross-contamination risks in food preparation areas. If you have specific dietary concerns or allergies, it’s recommended to consult the allergen information provided by McDonald’s or speak with a restaurant representative.
Can I use store-bought crust?
Use a store-bought crust if you don’t want to make the crust from scratch. If you are using a pre-made crust, go for a refrigerated one rather than a frozen one.
Conclusion
So, this was all about McDonald’s strawberry cream pie recipe. This delectable dessert combines a golden-brown crust, a sweet and tangy strawberry filling, and a creamy topping.
If you liked this recipe, share your experience with us in the comment section. Till then, Bon Appetit!
