We love how this easy dessert hits the spot when we’re craving something sweet. It’s a playful twist on a classic fruit fool but with a creamy pie spin that makes it even more irresistible. It’s perfect for family gatherings and it’s also a breeze to whip up.
We discovered the original recipe while traveling abroad though ours features fresh fruit and light cream that set together nicely in the fridge. We love how quickly it comes together with no complicated steps or fancy tools. It’s impossible to mess up and always leaves us smiling.
Ingredients
- 1 store-bought graham cracker crust (9-inch)
- 8 oz cream cheese softened at room temperature for 30 minutes
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream chilled
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh fruit (berries or peaches) washed and chopped
Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
We use a sturdy bowl to hold cream cheese, sugar, and whipping cream during blending. This size allows us to whip without spills.
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
We rely on a motorized mixer to whip the cream until it forms stiff peaks. This tool makes our No Fool Pie filling smooth and airy.
- Rubber spatula
We fold fresh fruit gently with a flexible spatula. This prevents bruising the berries or peaches and keeps the mixture light.
- Measuring cups and measuring spoons
We measure sugar, cream, and vanilla extract precisely. These help us maintain consistent flavor and texture.
- Paring knife and cutting board
We find these tools helpful for dicing or slicing our chosen fresh fruit. This keeps the fruit pieces uniform for an appealing finish.
Directions
Follow these steps to craft our No Fool Pie. We keep every move simple and straightforward.
Prep the Crust
- Remove the store-bought graham cracker crust from its packaging
- Use a fork to press any loose crumbs into the crust edges
- Place the crust in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes
Prepare the Filling
- Combine softened cream cheese granulated sugar and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl
- Blend on low speed with an electric hand mixer until smooth
- Pour chilled heavy whipping cream into the bowl
- Increase the mixer to medium speed and whip until stiff peaks form
- Fold in the fresh fruit using a rubber spatula
Assemble and Bake
- Spread the filling into the chilled crust
- Smooth the top with the spatula
- Bake in a preheated oven set to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 minutes if you prefer a lightly toasted crust
- Take out the pie and let it cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving
| Step | Time Needed |
|---|---|
| Chill the crust | 10 minutes |
| Mix the filling | 5 minutes |
| Optional crust bake | 8 minutes |
| Cooling on wire rack | 10 minutes |
| Final refrigeration | 2 hours |
Make-Ahead Instructions
We prepare our No Fool Pie up to one day before we plan to serve it. We follow these steps to ensure it stays fresh and delicious:
- Chill the prepared pie in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step lets the cream filling set fully and helps the flavors develop.
- Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap. We press the wrap against the surface to prevent any moisture buildup.
- Keep fresh fruit toppings in a separate container in the refrigerator until serving time. We slice or dice the fruit just before placing it on the pie to preserve texture and color.
- If we need more time, we store the pie in the refrigerator for up to two days. We check for any signs of moisture on the crust and blot gently with a paper towel if needed.
Below is a quick reference table for recommended make-ahead timing:
| Preparation Stage | Recommended Time |
|---|---|
| Chill prepared pie in refrigerator | 4 hours to overnight |
| Maximum time stored before serving | 2 days |
We use these storage tips to enjoy a fully set pie with bold flavor and a crisp crust when it is time to serve.
Conclusion
We love how this dessert showcases the best of fresh fruit and creamy texture. It’s a breeze to make and a delight to enjoy. By preparing it ahead we free up time on busy days. Guests appreciate a cool sweet treat that doesn’t require any last minute fuss. This foolproof pie is our go to whenever we want a quick crowd pleaser that always tastes amazing.