Introduction: Strawberries & Cream Pie

I'm not a very big fan of traditional pies, but I found this recipe a few years ago and it has become a family favorite for pie and non-pie fans alike!  I have only used strawberries, but you can use any fruit or combination of fruit and I'm sure it would still be delicious.  I think raspberries would be wonderful with this recipe...maybe I'll try that next time.


Strawberries and Cream Pie:


1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

3 tsp shortening

1 Oreo pie crust (I have also used a graham cracker crust and both options are fabulous)

1 block cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup sour cream

1 tsp vanilla

1 tub Cool Whip (8 oz)

2 cups fresh strawberries, halved

Step 1:


Combine chocolate chips and shortening and melt in the microwave. I usually microwave it for about 30 seconds and then stir. If needed, microwave for another 15-20 seconds and stir again. Stir until well combined and then pour about 3/4 of the mixture into the bottom of the crust and refrigerate until firm.
 

Step 2:


Beat the cream cheese, sugar, sour cream and vanilla until smooth. Fold in the Cool Whip. Pour (or scoop) the mixture into the crust and refrigerate overnight.

Arrange the strawberries on top of the pie.  Microwave the remaining chocolate and drizzle over the top.   I usually refrigerate again for about an hour before serving.  You can also add the strawberries and chocolate before refrigerating overnight - that works great too!