summer strawberry pie

nothing says summer like this dessert! sweet strawberries on top of a layer of cream cheese goodness make this hands down my favorite after dinner summertime treat.

I N G R E D I E N T S :

1 deep dish single pie crust
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
3 Tbsp. cornstarch
8 cups fresh strawberries, diced
3 ounces of cream cheese, softened

for whipped cream...

1/2 pint whipping cream
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. sugar
garnish: peppermint sprig


D I R E C T I O N S :

cook pie crust according to directions. set aside to cool.

combine 3/4 cup sugar, water, cornstarch, and strawberries. cook on medium heat until mixture starts to bubble, then reduce to a medium-low simmer and stir frequently until thickened, about 10 minutes. remove from heat.

spread cream cheese over the base of the cooked pie crust. pour strawberry filling over cream cheese. cool for a few hours in the refrigerator.

for whipped cream...

pour whipping cream into a mixer and whip at medium speed. add vanilla extract and teaspoon of sugar. whip, gradually adjusting to a higer speed until soft peaks form. do not over beat! serve with pie.