Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Flavorful: Utilizes fresh strawberries for an authentic, juicy taste.
- Simple Ingredients: Requires basic pantry staples, making it easy to prepare.
- Quick Preparation: With minimal prep and cook time, it’s a convenient dessert option.
- Versatile: Can be adapted with various toppings or crust variations to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 quart fresh strawberries, hulled
- 1 (9-inch) pie crust, baked
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¾ cup water
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Strawberries: Arrange half of the hulled strawberries in the baked pie crust.
- Cook the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining strawberries with sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Thicken the Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Gradually add this to the boiling strawberry mixture. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened (approximately 10 minutes).
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the cooked strawberry mixture over the fresh strawberries in the pie crust.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie until set and chilled, at least 3 hours.
- Serve: Before serving, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form and add a dollop to each slice.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Additional Time: 3 hours (chilling)
- Total Time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Variations
- Glazed Strawberry Pie: For a glossy finish, brush the top with a simple glaze made from warmed apricot jam.
- Cream Cheese Layer: Spread a layer of sweetened cream cheese on the crust before adding strawberries for a creamy contrast.
- Chocolate-Coated Crust: Brush melted chocolate on the crust before adding the filling to prevent sogginess and add a rich flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover the pie with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This pie is best served cold. If you prefer a warm slice, gently warm it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
What type of crust works best for strawberry pie?
A traditional flaky pastry crust is classic, but graham cracker or shortbread crusts also pair well with strawberry filling.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor. Frozen strawberries can release more liquid, potentially making the pie runny.
How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Brushing the crust with melted chocolate or a thin layer of beaten egg white before adding the filling can help seal it and prevent sogginess.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
What toppings pair well with strawberry pie?
Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce complement the flavors nicely.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the pie?
Yes, refrigerating the pie helps the filling set properly and maintains its freshness.
Can I substitute cornstarch with another thickener?
Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch can be used as alternatives to cornstarch in equal amounts.
How long will the pie last in the refrigerator?
The pie will stay fresh for up to 3 days when properly stored in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze the strawberry pie?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the fresh strawberries may become mushy upon thawing.
What if my filling doesn’t set properly?
Ensure the cornstarch mixture is cooked until thickened. If the filling remains runny, you can cook it a bit longer to achieve the desired consistency.
Conclusion
This classic strawberry pie is a delightful dessert that celebrates the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries. With its simple preparation and versatile variations, it’s sure to become a favorite treat for any occasion. Enjoy a slice chilled, topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream, and savor the taste of summer in every bite
Print
Classic Strawberry Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of a classic strawberry pie, featuring fresh, juicy strawberries nestled in a flaky pastry crust. This timeless dessert highlights the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries, making it perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 quart fresh strawberries, hulled
- 1 (9-inch) pie crust, baked
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¾ cup water
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Strawberries – Arrange half of the hulled strawberries in the baked pie crust.
2️⃣ Cook the Filling – In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining strawberries with sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until boiling.
3️⃣ Thicken the Mixture – In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch and water until smooth. Gradually add to the boiling strawberry mixture. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 10 minutes).
4️⃣ Assemble the Pie – Pour the cooked strawberry mixture over the fresh strawberries in the pie crust.
5️⃣ Chill – Refrigerate until set and chilled, at least 3 hours.
6️⃣ Serve – Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form and add a dollop to each slice before serving.
Notes
💡 Glazed Strawberry Pie – Brush the top with warmed apricot jam for a glossy finish.
💡 Cream Cheese Layer – Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese to the crust for a creamy contrast.
💡 Chocolate-Coated Crust – Brush melted chocolate on the crust before adding filling for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 3 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake (except crust)
- Cuisine: American
