How to Make Cream Cheese Pie: A Slice of Heaven in Every Bite

Cream cheese pie, a dessert that needs no introduction, is a symphony of flavors and textures. The creamy, tangy filling nestled in a buttery, flaky crust is simply irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through every step, ensuring a rewarding baking experience and a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.

This recipe is especially close to my heart as it’s been passed down through generations in my family. Every holiday season, the aroma of this pie baking in the oven fills the house with warmth and anticipation. Trust me, the love baked into each slice is palpable.

Gather Your Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water

For the filling:

• 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream

Equip Your Kitchen:

• 9-inch pie plate
• Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry blender or two forks
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Rolling pin

Let’s Get Baking:

Making the Crust:

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Cut in the butter: Add the chilled, diced butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender or two forks to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add ice water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, to the flour mixture. Mix gently with a fork until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing.
4. Form the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and form it into a disc. Wrap the disc tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Crafting the Filling:

1. Beat cream cheese and sugar: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Incorporate eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Fold in sour cream: Gently fold in the sour cream until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Assembling the Pie:

1. Preheat oven and prepare pie plate: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie plate.
2. Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle.
3. Transfer to pie plate: Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to the prepared pie plate. Gently press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the plate. Trim and crimp the edges decoratively.
4. Blind bake the crust: Prick the bottom of the crust all over with a fork. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes.
5. Add filling: Remove the parchment paper and pie weights from the crust. Pour the cream cheese filling into the par-baked crust.
6. Bake: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the filling is set around the edges and the center is just slightly jiggly.

Cooling and Chilling:

1. Cool gradually: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. This will take several hours.
2. Chill: Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to fully set.

Tips and Tricks for Pie Perfection:

• Use cold ingredients: For a flakier crust, ensure your butter and water are very cold.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to a tough crust. Mix only until the dough comes together.
• Blind bake the crust: This prevents a soggy bottom and ensures a crispy crust.
• Check for doneness: The pie is done when the filling is set around the edges and the center is just slightly jiggly.

Slice of Cream Cheese Pie

FAQs:

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Absolutely! While a homemade crust is always special, using a store-bought pie crust is a convenient shortcut.

Can I freeze cream cheese pie?

Yes, you can freeze cream cheese pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

What can I serve with cream cheese pie?

Cream cheese pie pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Time to Indulge:

Slice into your beautiful creation and savor the creamy, tangy goodness. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your delicious masterpiece with friends and family!

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Pie

Want to explore more delightful desserts? Check out our recipes for Twice Baked Cake and Red Velvet Cake. Happy baking!