There’s something undeniably joyful about a dessert that’s pink, fluffy, and served chilled. Enter the strawberry mousse pie—a silky-smooth, no-bake dream that tastes like summer in every bite. Whether you’re planning a picnic, holiday brunch, or a sweet surprise for the kids, this pie never fails to charm.

Made with fresh strawberries, whipped topping, and a buttery graham cracker crust, this pie is quick to assemble and even quicker to disappear. It’s the kind of dessert your grandma might have clipped from a magazine in the ’70s—but updated with today’s convenience and flavor.

Let’s create something cool, creamy, and unforgettable.

A Sweet Slice of Summer Memories

When I was a little girl, summertime meant two things: strawberries and sunshine. My mother and I would pick berries from the garden in the early morning before the heat set in. I remember sitting at the kitchen table, stained fingers and all, as she whipped up her famous strawberry mousse pie—a light, fluffy dessert that felt like eating a cloud of fruit.

She always used Cool Whip, a graham cracker crust, and fresh strawberries from our backyard patch. It was no-bake, quick, and perfectly sweet after a day spent chasing dragonflies and sipping lemonade. Today, I make it for my own family, tweaking the recipe here and there, but keeping the soul of it the same. And let me tell you, it still brings smiles with every slice.

This updated no-bake strawberry mousse pie version is a modern nod to that memory. With fresh berries, airy whipped topping, and a buttery graham cracker crust, it’s ideal for summer gatherings, potlucks, or lazy Sunday treats.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Mousse Pie

No-bake convenience—perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven
Sweet and tangy strawberry flavor in every bite
Light and fluffy texture thanks to whipped topping or homemade whipped cream
Customizable crusts—graham cracker, chocolate cookie, or even shortbread
Freezer-friendly for make-ahead magic

Ingredients & Substitutions

1 pre-made graham cracker crust (or homemade)
1 lb fresh strawberries (hulled and halved)
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 packet (about 2 tsp) unflavored gelatin
¼ cup cold water
1 ½ cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or homemade whipped cream

Optional Variations:

For a chocolate twist, use an Oreo crust and drizzle melted chocolate over the top
Stir in 2 tbsp of Baileys Strawberries & Cream liqueur for an adult version
Make it dairy-free using coconut whipped topping and a vegan crust

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the strawberry purée: In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Simmer until berries are soft (about 5–7 minutes). Blend until smooth.
Dissolve the gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water. Let bloom for 5 minutes, then stir into the warm strawberry purée until fully dissolved.
Cool the mixture to room temperature.
Fold in the whipped topping gently until fully combined and fluffy.
Pour into crust and smooth the top. Chill in the fridge for 4 hours or until set.
Garnish with fresh strawberries or whipped cream before serving.

Tip: For a firmer set, chill overnight or freeze slightly before slicing.

Variations & Reader Favorites

Looking for more strawberry dessert inspiration? Don’t miss our Strawberry Pie Cream Cheese Crumb Bars for a baked option that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Strawberry Chocolate Mousse Pie: Use a chocolate crust and add a chocolate drizzle on top.
Fresh Berry Swirl: Add a few mashed raspberries or blueberries into the mousse.
Strawberry Mousse Pie with Graham Cracker Crust: A classic for a reason—sweet and simple.
Mini Pie Version: Make individual servings in muffin tins for parties or kids’ treats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a no-bake strawberry mousse pie?
Yes! Aside from simmering the berries briefly, the rest is fully no-bake.

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw and drain them first to avoid excess liquid.

Can I freeze strawberry mousse pie?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze up to one month. Thaw slightly before slicing.

What’s the best crust for strawberry mousse pie?
Graham cracker or chocolate cookie crusts work beautifully. Shortbread is also a rich option.

Can I make this with Cool Whip?
Yes! Strawberry mousse pie with Cool Whip is classic and ultra-easy.

Is this the best strawberry mousse pie for summer?
It just might be! Light, fruity, and ready in advance—it checks every summer dessert box.