If you’ve ever taken that first crispy bite of Popeyes’ Strawberry Cheesecake Pie and closed your eyes for a second too long, you’re not alone. This golden handheld pocket has a way of surprising you with its buttery crunch, warm strawberry filling, and that creamy cheesecake swirl that’s just barely sweet enough to feel homemade. It’s indulgent, nostalgic, and almost always seasonal. But now, you don’t have to wait for its comeback. This copycat Popeyes Strawberry Cheesecake Pie recipe lets you recreate that same flaky exterior and gooey cheesecake center in your own kitchen.
This version is air-fryer and oven-friendly, uses just a handful of pantry basics, and gives you the chance to add extra creaminess or go bold with more strawberry. Whether you’re a seasoned pie fanatic or a curious dessert explorer, this one’s worth every melt-in-your-mouth bite.
Table of Contents
How to make Copycat Popeyes Strawberry Cheesecake Pie
The key to nailing this dessert is layering texture. You want crisp on the outside, warm and soft on the inside, with the jammy strawberry and cream cheese flavors twisting together. Pre-made pie dough keeps it simple. You can air fry or bake depending on your preference.
Ingredients, tools, instructions and tips
Time: Prep 10 minutes, Cook 20 minutes, Total 30 minutes
Calories per pie: 340 kcal
Fat: 22g | Carbs: 31g | Protein: 4g
Ingredients (makes 4 pies)
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (or homemade)
- ½ cup strawberry preserves or jam
- ¼ cup diced fresh strawberries (optional but adds extra pop)
- ⅓ cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 2 tbsp graham cracker crumbs (for topping)
- 1 tbsp butter, melted (optional, for brushing)
Tools
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Pastry brush
- Knife or pastry cutter
- Parchment paper
- Air fryer or oven
- Baking sheet (for oven option)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F or your air fryer to 350°F.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Roll out the pie dough and cut into 4 rectangles or circles about 5 inches across.
- Spread a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each piece.
- Spoon strawberry preserves over the cream cheese. Add diced berries if using.
- Fold the dough over and press the edges with a fork to seal.
- Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs.
- For oven: bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 18–22 minutes until golden.
For air fryer: cook for 8–10 minutes until golden and bubbly. - Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Chill the pies before baking for 10 minutes to help them keep their shape.
- Use a toothpick to poke a small vent on top before baking to prevent leaks.
- Don’t overfill. It’s tempting but messy.
- Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
What to serve with
When serving the golden and gooey delight that is this Copycat Popeyes Strawberry Cheesecake Pie, a few thoughtful additions can turn a solo dessert into a full sensory moment. Try balancing the warm richness with cold and creamy companions or tangy drinks that lift the sweet notes.
Cool and Creamy Sides
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
A cold scoop of vanilla bean ice cream next to your warm pie melts into the crust and enhances the cheesecake flavor.
Greek Yogurt with Honey
For a tangy balance, serve with chilled Greek yogurt drizzled with honey and a few crushed graham crackers on top.
Fruity Complements
Fresh Berry Mix
Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries lightly sugared and chilled bring out the natural fruit notes in the pie.
Lemon Curd Dip
Add a citrusy contrast by serving lemon curd on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Drinks
Iced Chai Latte
The spices in chai pair beautifully with the creamy and fruity notes of the pie.
Sparkling Strawberry Lemonade
A fizzy, tart strawberry lemonade refreshes the palate and extends the strawberry theme in a bright way.
Ingredient substitutes
- Pie Crust
Original Ingredient: Refrigerated pie dough
Substitutes:
Puff Pastry: Gives a flakier, airier bite.
Homemade Dough: For full control, make your own with flour, butter, and water.
Phyllo Sheets: Layered with butter for a crispier shell, though harder to seal. - Strawberry Filling
Original Ingredient: Strawberry preserves or jam
Substitutes:
Fresh Strawberries Cooked with Sugar: Simmer ½ cup chopped berries with sugar until thickened.
Raspberry Jam: Adds more tartness if you prefer a sharper berry taste.
Mixed Berry Compote: Blend multiple berries for a deeper fruit profile. - Cream Cheese
Original Ingredient: Softened full-fat cream cheese
Substitutes:
Mascarpone: Slightly sweeter and silkier.
Greek Yogurt: Thicker and tangier for a lighter option.
Dairy-Free Cream Cheese: Perfect for a vegan version. - Graham Cracker Crumbs
Original Ingredient: Crushed graham crackers for topping
Substitutes:
Crushed Digestive Biscuits: Mildly sweet and toasty.
Crushed Biscoff: For a spiced cookie vibe.
Oat Crumb Mix: Use blended oats with a pinch of brown sugar. - Egg Wash
Original Ingredient: Beaten egg for brushing
Substitutes:
Milk or Cream: Gives a lighter golden color.
Butter: Adds richness and deeper browning.
Dairy-Free Milk: Works well for vegan or dairy-free diets. - Vanilla Extract
Original Ingredient: Vanilla extract
Substitutes:
Almond Extract: For a different but delicious flavor.
Maple Syrup: Adds a warm, cozy note.
Skip It: Especially if your jam is strongly flavored.
Ingredients
1 refrigerated pie crust (or homemade)
½ cup strawberry preserves or jam
¼ cup diced fresh strawberries (optional but adds extra pop)
⅓ cup cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 egg (for egg wash)
2 tbsp graham cracker crumbs (for topping)
1 tbsp butter, melted (optional, for brushing)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F or your air fryer to 350°F.
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Roll out the pie dough and cut into 4 rectangles or circles about 5 inches across.
Spread a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each piece.
Spoon strawberry preserves over the cream cheese. Add diced berries if using.
Fold the dough over and press the edges with a fork to seal.
Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs.
For oven: bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 18–22 minutes until golden.
For air fryer: cook for 8–10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Calories per pie: 340 kcal Fat: 22g | Carbs: 31g | Protein: 4g
