Are you looking for a delicious and creamy dessert that will impress your guests? Look no further than the Philadelphia cream cheese pie recipe. This classic American pie is known for its rich and creamy filling, made with Philadelphia cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.
Philadelphia cream cheese pie is a staple in many American households and is often served as a dessert or a sweet treat after a meal. The key to making the perfect Philadelphia cream cheese pie lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The creamy filling should be smooth and rich, while the pie crust should be flaky and buttery. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create a mouthwatering Philadelphia cream cheese pie that you and your loved ones will enjoy.
Before you start, gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. You will need the following:
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
– 1/4 cup ice water
– 2 (8-ounce) packages Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 pie crust, pre-baked and cooled
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the recipe. Start by making the pie crust. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the ice water over the mixture and gently stir until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
While the dough is chilling, prepare the cream cheese filling. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Set aside.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out one of the dough disks on a lightly floured surface to fit the pie plate. Transfer the dough to the pie plate and trim any excess. Prick the bottom of the dough with a fork and line it with parchment paper. Fill the pie crust with pie weights or dried beans to prevent it from puffing up during baking. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment paper and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Pour the cream cheese filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, you can refrigerate the pie for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
Once your Philadelphia cream cheese pie is chilled and ready to serve, garnish it with your favorite toppings, such as whipped cream, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Slice into wedges and enjoy this delightful dessert with your loved ones. Happy baking!
