Strawberry pie is a classic dessert that brings the sweet, juicy flavor of fresh strawberries to your table in a beautiful, colorful way. If you’ve ever wondered how to make a fresh strawberry pie that’s bursting with flavor and has a perfect glaze without being too runny or overly sweet, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through an easy, foolproof recipe to create a fresh strawberry pie that your family and friends will love.
Why Fresh Strawberry Pie?
Fresh strawberry pie is a delightful treat especially in spring and summer when strawberries are at their peak. Unlike baked pies with cooked filling, fresh strawberry pie highlights the natural freshness and vibrant flavor of strawberries. The key is a luscious glaze that holds the berries together and adds just the right amount of sweetness and shine without overpowering the fruit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make a fresh strawberry pie:
– 1 refrigerated or homemade 9-inch pie crust
– 32 ounces (about 2 pounds) fresh strawberries
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/2 cup water (room temperature)
– Optional: whipped cream for serving
These simple ingredients come together to make a pie that looks stunning and tastes incredible.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). Let the pie crust sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before unrolling it into your pie pan. Crimp the edges for a nice decorative touch. Use a fork to poke holes in the bottom and sides of the crust to prevent bubbling during baking. Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.
2. Prepare the Strawberries
Wash the strawberries thoroughly. Remove the green tops and cut the strawberries in half. Set aside about 10 ounces of strawberries to blend into the glaze, and keep the rest whole or halved for layering in the pie.
3. Make the Strawberry Glaze
Place the 10 ounces of strawberries into a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. In a small saucepan, combine the strawberry puree, sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with a little cold water to make a slurry. Gradually add this slurry to the boiling strawberry mixture. Continue to cook and stir until the glaze thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Pie
Line the bottom of the cooled pie crust with a layer of the cut strawberries, flat side down. Pour half of the strawberry glaze over this layer, making sure it fills in between the berries. Add another layer of strawberries on top, then cover with the remaining glaze. Use a brush or spoon to coat any exposed strawberries on top with the glaze to keep them shiny and fresh-looking.
5. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours to allow the glaze to set properly. This chilling time helps the pie hold its shape when sliced. Serve the pie cold, optionally topped with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Tips for the Best Fresh Strawberry Pie
– Choose ripe, firm strawberries: They should be sweet but not mushy to hold their shape well in the pie.
– Use a good quality pie crust: Store-bought crusts work fine, but homemade crust adds a lovely buttery flavor.
– Don’t skip chilling: The glaze needs time to set in the fridge for the perfect texture.
– Adjust sweetness: Taste the glaze before assembling. If your strawberries are very sweet, reduce sugar slightly; if tart, add a bit more sugar.
– Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Why This Recipe Works
This fresh strawberry pie recipe stands out because it uses real strawberry puree in the glaze, giving it an authentic, intense strawberry flavor without relying on gelatin or artificial thickeners. The double layer of strawberries creates a beautiful presentation and a satisfying texture contrast. Plus, it’s straightforward enough for bakers of all skill levels.
Enjoy this fresh strawberry pie at your next picnic, family gathering, or as a special summer dessert. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as pretty as it is delicious!
Fresh strawberry pie is a wonderful way to celebrate the season’s best berries with a simple, fresh, and flavorful dessert everyone will love.