September 28 Strawberry Cream Pie Day

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Quick Answer

September 28 Strawberry Cream Pie Day is an annual food holiday observed every September 28 in the United States and informally recognized in other countries. The day celebrates the strawberry cream pie, a chilled dessert made with a pastry or graham cracker crust, a sweet cream or custard filling, and fresh strawberries on top. It is one of several food holidays observed in late September and gives home bakers, bakeries, and dessert lovers a reason to make or enjoy this classic pie.

Key Takeaways

September 28 is the officially recognized date for National Strawberry Cream Pie Day, confirmed across multiple food holiday calendars [1][3][7]
The origin of the holiday is unverified; no single organization or individual has been publicly credited with founding it [4][8]
A classic strawberry cream pie uses a baked crust, a cream cheese or whipped cream filling, and fresh strawberries
The pie can be made entirely without baking by using a no-bake crust and a chilled cream filling
Strawberry cream pie lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator when properly covered
Fresh strawberries produce a firmer, brighter result; frozen strawberries work but release more liquid
Dairy-free versions are achievable using coconut cream or cashew cream as substitutes
The holiday shares September 28 with National Drink Beer Day, adding to a busy day on food holiday calendars [2][9]
You can celebrate by baking at home, visiting a local bakery, or sharing strawberry cream pie content on social media [6][8]

What Is Strawberry Cream Pie Day?

September 28 Strawberry Cream Pie Day is a food observance dedicated to one of America’s most recognizable chilled desserts. The holiday encourages people to bake, buy, share, or simply enjoy a strawberry cream pie on September 28 each year.

A strawberry cream pie typically features:

Crust: Pastry, graham cracker, or cookie crumb base, either baked or no-bake
Filling: Sweetened cream cheese, whipped cream, or vanilla custard
Topping: Fresh whole or sliced strawberries, often glazed with a fruit gel or jam
Optional garnish: Extra whipped cream, mint leaves, or a dusting of powdered sugar

The dessert sits in the broader category of cream pies, which also includes coconut cream and banana cream varieties. For a related celebration, see May 8 National Coconut Cream Pie Day.

When Did Strawberry Cream Pie Day Start?

The precise founding date and creator of National Strawberry Cream Pie Day are not publicly documented. Most food holiday tracking sites list September 28 as the recognized date without attributing the holiday to a specific person, brand, or organization [4][7][8].

This is common for many informal food holidays in the United States. They often emerge from food industry promotions, social media campaigns, or regional traditions before gaining wider recognition through food holiday calendars and media coverage. The holiday appears consistently on September 28 across all major food holiday directories [1][3][5][10].

Note on conflicting dates: A small number of sources have listed a June date for a strawberry cream pie observance, but the September 28 date is the one most widely cited and accepted by food holiday authorities [4][7].

How to Make Strawberry Cream Pie from Scratch

A classic strawberry cream pie from scratch takes roughly 30 minutes of active prep time plus at least 4 hours of chilling. The result is a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing dessert that suits any skill level.

Best Strawberry Cream Pie Recipe (Classic Version)

Ingredients (serves 8):

Component	Ingredients
Crust	1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs, 6 tbsp melted butter, 3 tbsp sugar
Cream filling	8 oz cream cheese (softened), 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla, 2 cups heavy whipping cream
Topping	2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced), 3 tbsp strawberry jam or glaze

Steps:

Make the crust. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into a 9-inch pie pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes, then cool completely. For a no-bake version, refrigerate for 30 minutes instead.
Prepare the filling. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks, then fold gently into the cream cheese mixture.
Assemble. Spread the cream filling evenly into the cooled crust.
Add strawberries. Arrange sliced strawberries on top. Warm the jam slightly and brush over the berries to create a glaze.
Chill. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Choose this recipe if you want a no-bake-friendly option that works well for beginners and can be prepared the day before serving.

Strawberry Cream Pie vs. Strawberry Shortcake: What Is the Difference?

These two desserts share the same hero ingredient but are quite different in structure, texture, and serving style. Strawberry cream pie is a chilled, sliceable dessert served in a pastry or cracker crust. Strawberry shortcake is a layered, individually assembled dessert built on a biscuit or sponge cake base.

Key differences at a glance:

Feature	Strawberry Cream Pie	Strawberry Shortcake
Base	Pastry or graham cracker crust	Biscuit, sponge, or pound cake
Filling	Cream cheese or whipped cream layer	Whipped cream between layers
Texture	Smooth, dense, chilled	Light, airy, crumbly
Serving	Sliced from a whole pie	Individual portions
Make-ahead	Yes, up to 24 hours ahead	Best assembled fresh

Strawberry shortcake is also associated with June (National Strawberry Shortcake Day falls on June 14), while September 28 Strawberry Cream Pie Day lands at the tail end of summer berry season in many regions.

Where to Buy Strawberry Cream Pie and What It Costs at Bakeries

Most grocery store bakery departments, local pie shops, and dessert cafes carry strawberry cream pie, particularly around September 28. Availability varies by region and season.

Where to look:

Grocery store bakery counters (Whole Foods, Kroger, Publix, and similar chains)
Local independent bakeries and pie shops
Dessert cafes and diners
Online bakeries that ship refrigerated desserts

On pricing: Retail strawberry cream pies at grocery stores generally range from budget-friendly to mid-range depending on size and ingredients. Specialty bakery versions cost more. Because prices vary widely by location and retailer, check directly with your local bakery for current pricing. Calling ahead on September 28 is wise, as some bakeries run limited-time promotions for food holidays [6][8].

Tip: If a local bakery does not stock strawberry cream pie year-round, they may take special orders for the holiday. Ordering 2 to 3 days in advance is recommended.

Can You Make Strawberry Cream Pie Ahead of Time?

Yes, strawberry cream pie is one of the best make-ahead desserts available. The cream filling actually improves after several hours in the refrigerator as it firms up and the flavors meld together.

Make-ahead timeline:

Up to 24 hours ahead: Assemble the full pie with strawberry topping and cover loosely with plastic wrap. Refrigerate until serving.
Up to 48 hours ahead: Make and chill the crust and cream filling separately. Add the strawberry topping on the day of serving to keep berries fresh and prevent them from weeping into the cream.

Common mistake: Adding the strawberry glaze too far in advance causes the berries to release juice into the cream layer, making the filling watery. Add the glaze no more than 4 to 6 hours before serving.

How Long Does Strawberry Cream Pie Last in the Fridge?

A covered strawberry cream pie lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator. After day 3, the crust softens significantly and the strawberries begin to break down, affecting both texture and appearance.

Storage tips:

Cover with plastic wrap or store in an airtight pie container
Keep at a consistent refrigerator temperature (below 40°F / 4°C)
Do not freeze a finished strawberry cream pie; the cream filling separates when thawed
If freezing is necessary, freeze only the baked crust and add the filling fresh after thawing

Strawberry Cream Pie Without Baking

A fully no-bake strawberry cream pie is achievable and requires no oven at all. This version is popular in summer and early fall when turning on the oven is less appealing.

No-bake method:

Use a pre-made graham cracker crust or make one and chill it for 30 minutes instead of baking
Use a whipped cream and cream cheese filling (no cooking required)
Set the pie in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before slicing

The no-bake version has a slightly softer crust than a baked one but holds its shape well when properly chilled. It is also faster to prepare, making it a practical choice for last-minute September 28 celebrations.

Fresh vs. Frozen Strawberries for Strawberry Cream Pie

Fresh strawberries are the better choice for strawberry cream pie. They hold their shape, deliver a brighter color, and release less liquid onto the cream filling.

Comparison:

Factor	Fresh Strawberries	Frozen Strawberries
Texture	Firm, holds shape	Soft, mushy after thawing
Color	Bright red	Darker, less vibrant
Liquid release	Minimal	High (must drain thoroughly)
Flavor	Sweet, clean	Good but slightly diluted
Availability	Seasonal (peak: May-July)	Year-round

If using frozen strawberries: Thaw completely, drain in a colander for at least 30 minutes, and pat dry with paper towels before placing on the pie. Use a thicker glaze to compensate for extra moisture. The result is acceptable but noticeably different from a fresh-berry version.

Seasonal note: September 28 falls just after peak strawberry season in most of the continental United States. Late-season or greenhouse-grown fresh strawberries are usually still available at grocery stores and farmers markets in late September, making them a viable choice for the holiday.

Common Mistakes When Making Strawberry Cream Pie

Even experienced bakers make a few predictable errors with this dessert. Avoiding these will improve results significantly.

Not chilling the crust before filling: A warm crust causes the cream filling to slide and not set properly. Always cool the crust completely.
Overbeating the whipped cream: Whipped cream that is beaten past stiff peaks turns grainy and butter-like. Stop when peaks hold their shape.
Skipping the glaze: Without a jam or gel glaze over the strawberries, the berries dry out and look dull. A thin glaze also holds them in place when slicing.
Using too-wet strawberries: Moisture from unwashed or undried berries seeps into the filling. Wash strawberries well ahead of time and dry them thoroughly.
Cutting too soon: Slicing before the pie has chilled for at least 4 hours results in a filling that collapses. Patience pays off here.

Do People Actually Celebrate September 28 Strawberry Cream Pie Day?

Yes, though the celebration is informal and largely driven by home bakers, food bloggers, and social media communities. National Strawberry Cream Pie Day generates consistent social media activity each September 28, with users sharing homemade pie photos, recipes, and bakery finds [6][8].

Food holiday calendars across multiple platforms list the day, and some bakeries use it as a promotional hook to feature strawberry cream pie specials [5][9]. It is one of several food holidays in late September. For context, nearby observances include September 24 Cherries Jubilee Day and September 22 Ice Cream Cone Day.

Ways people celebrate:

Baking a strawberry cream pie at home
Visiting a local bakery or pie shop
Hosting a dessert gathering with friends or family
Posting recipes or photos on social media using hashtags like #StrawberryCreamPieDay
Trying a new recipe variation (no-bake, mini pies, dairy-free)

If you enjoy other berry-and-cream desserts, August 7 Raspberries in Cream Day follows a similar spirit, as does January 15 National Strawberry Ice Cream Day for year-round strawberry fans.

Strawberry Cream Pie Alternatives for Dairy-Free Diets

A dairy-free strawberry cream pie is fully achievable and closely mirrors the texture and flavor of the original. The key is choosing the right cream substitute.

Best dairy-free substitutes:

Full-fat coconut cream: Refrigerate overnight, then whip the solidified cream. It produces a thick, stable filling with a mild coconut flavor. This is the most reliable option.
Cashew cream: Blend soaked raw cashews with a small amount of water, sweetener, and vanilla. Produces a neutral, dense filling.
Oat-based cream: Commercial oat cream products work in a pinch but produce a thinner filling that may need a stabilizer like agar-agar.
Vegan cream cheese: Several brands (such as Violife or Kite Hill) perform well in cream pie fillings when combined with whipped coconut cream.

For the crust: Most graham cracker crusts contain butter. Substitute melted coconut oil or vegan butter in equal amounts. Many store-bought graham crackers are already dairy-free, but always check the label.

For more strawberry-based dessert inspiration, the 423 Strawberry Cookbook offers a broad range of recipes that can be adapted for dairy-free preparation.

FAQ

What date is Strawberry Cream Pie Day? National Strawberry Cream Pie Day is observed annually on September 28. This date is consistent across all major food holiday calendars [1][3][7].

Is Strawberry Cream Pie Day an official U.S. holiday? No. It is an informal food holiday with no government recognition. It is not a federal or state holiday, but it is widely listed in food holiday directories and observed by home bakers and bakeries [4][8].

What is the difference between strawberry cream pie and strawberry pie? A strawberry cream pie includes a cream or custard filling layer beneath the strawberries. A standard strawberry pie typically uses a fruit gel filling made directly from strawberries, with no cream component.

Can strawberry cream pie be frozen? Freezing a finished strawberry cream pie is not recommended. The cream filling separates and becomes watery when thawed. The baked crust alone can be frozen for up to one month.

How far in advance can I make strawberry cream pie? The pie can be fully assembled up to 24 hours ahead. For best results, add the strawberry topping no more than 4 to 6 hours before serving to prevent the berries from releasing juice into the filling.

What crust works best for strawberry cream pie? Graham cracker crust is the most popular choice because its mild sweetness complements the cream filling without competing with the strawberries. A traditional pastry crust also works well for a more classic pie presentation.

Is strawberry cream pie the same as strawberry cheesecake? They are similar but not identical. Strawberry cream pie uses a lighter whipped cream or cream cheese filling. Strawberry cheesecake has a denser, baked or set cheesecake filling with a more pronounced cream cheese flavor.

What other food holidays fall on September 28? September 28 is also recognized as National Drink Beer Day, making it one of the busier days on the food holiday calendar [2][9].

Can children help make strawberry cream pie? Yes. The no-bake version is especially suitable for children to help with, particularly the steps of pressing the crust, spreading the filling, and arranging strawberries on top.

What is the best way to slice a strawberry cream pie cleanly? Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each cut. This prevents the cream filling from dragging and keeps each slice looking clean.

Conclusion

September 28 Strawberry Cream Pie Day is a straightforward food holiday with genuine appeal: it celebrates a dessert that is easy to make, widely available, and adaptable for most dietary needs. Whether baking from scratch, picking one up from a local bakery, or experimenting with a dairy-free version, there are practical ways to participate.

Actionable next steps for 2026:

Plan ahead. If baking at home, gather ingredients by September 26 so strawberries have time to ripen fully at room temperature.
Choose your method. Decide between the classic baked version and the no-bake option based on your available time and equipment.
Make it ahead. Assemble the pie the evening of September 27 for a stress-free September 28 serving.
Share it. Post a photo on social media with #StrawberryCreamPieDay to join the broader community celebrating the holiday.
Explore variations. Try a mini-pie version, a dairy-free adaptation, or a new flavor twist like adding a layer of lemon curd beneath the strawberries.

The holiday also pairs well with the broader September food calendar. Check out September 27 Corned Beef Hash Day for the day before, or explore September 18 Red Velvet Cake Day for another September dessert celebration worth planning around.

References

[1] National Strawberry Cream Pie Day – https://nationaltoday.com/national-strawberry-cream-pie-day/ [2] Holidays September – https://www.thenibble.com/fun/more/facts/holidays-september.asp [3] National Strawberry Cream Pie Day September 28 – https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day/national-strawberry-cream-pie-day-september-28 [4] Strawberry Cream Pie Day – https://www.cooksinfo.com/strawberry-cream-pie-day [5] September Food Holidays – https://thegoodheartedwoman.com/seasonal-eating/september-food-holidays/ [6] National Strawberry Cream Pie Day – https://celebrationnation.com/celebrations/national-strawberry-cream-pie-day/ [7] National Strawberry Cream Pie Day – https://www.checkiday.com/520b74ab6b82b31a0e6571879bc95f82/national-strawberry-cream-pie-day [8] Strawberry Cream Pie Day – https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/strawberry-cream-pie-day/ [9] September Food Holidays Calendar – https://thedeliciouslife.com/september-food-holidays-calendar/ [10] National Food Holidays 2026 Printable Calendar – https://thestoriedrecipe.com/national-food-holidays-2026-printable-calendar/