Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Delicious Strawberry Cream Cheese Delight?
It is a delightful Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie that combines rich creaminess with fresh strawberries, topped with a fluffy meringue.
Is this strawberry pie low in fat?
Yes, this recipe is designed as a low-fat treat, especially if you use reduced-fat crust and nonfat sweetened condensed milk.
What temperature should I preheat the oven to?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
How many strawberries do I need?
The recipe requires 1 cup of fresh sliced strawberries.
How much cream cheese is used in the recipe?
You will need 3 ounces of softened cream cheese.
Can I use nonfat milk for this recipe?
Yes, you can use 1 1/2 cups of nonfat sweetened condensed milk if desired.
What is the purpose of lemon juice in this pie?
Lemon juice is stirred into the sweetened condensed milk to help the mixture thicken.
How do I prepare the meringue topping?
Beat egg whites until frothy, gradually add sugar until stiff peaks form, and then fold in vanilla extract.
How many egg yolks are required for the filling?
The filling requires 2 beaten egg yolks.
Should the pie crust be pre-baked?
Yes, the recipe calls for one already baked pie crust.
How long does the pie need to bake?
Bake the pie for 10 to 15 minutes or until the meringue turns golden brown.
Does the pie need to be chilled?
Yes, after cooling to room temperature, it should be chilled in the refrigerator for a few hours for best flavor and texture.
How much sugar goes into the meringue?
You should use 4 tablespoons of sugar, adjusted to your taste preference.
What kind of vanilla extract is recommended?
Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best flavor; you will need 1/2 teaspoon.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor in this recipe.
How many egg whites are used for the meringue?
You will need 2 egg whites, separated from the yolks.
Is this dessert suitable for summer gatherings?
Yes, it is tagged as a summer treat and is perfect for picnics or holiday gatherings.
How do I ensure the filling is smooth?
Blend the egg yolks, softened cream cheese, and sliced strawberries well into the lemon and milk mixture until smooth.
What should I look for to know the meringue is done?
The meringue is ready when it has reached a golden brown color.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I use a reduced-fat pie crust?
Yes, using a reduced-fat crust is recommended if you want to keep the dessert lighter.
How do I prepare the cream cheese?
Leave the cream cheese at room temperature before starting to ensure it is softened for easy blending.
Should I add the strawberries to the meringue?
No, the strawberries should be blended into the cream cheese and milk mixture, not the meringue.
What makes the meringue light and airy?
Beating the egg whites to stiff peaks and carefully folding in the vanilla creates a light finish.
How much lemon juice is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of lemon juice.
Is the strawberry cream mixture cooked before adding it to the crust?
No, you pour the mixture into the baked crust and then bake the whole pie to brown the meringue.
Does this pie contain cholesterol?
While specific nutritional values are not listed, the recipe uses egg yolks and cream cheese which typically contain cholesterol.
Can I adjust the amount of sugar?
Yes, the 4 tablespoons of sugar can be adjusted to your personal taste.
How do I spread the meringue?
Gently spread the prepared meringue over the strawberry mixture, making sure to cover it completely.
What is the overall flavor profile?
The pie offers a perfect harmony of sweetness from the strawberries and milk, and creaminess from the cream cheese.