Take your dessert game to the next level with Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie! This pie combines a buttery, flaky crust, the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries, and a luscious strawberry glaze that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Perfect for picnics, family gatherings, or a light dessert after dinner, this pie will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients Breakdown
Crust
- 1 frozen pie crust: Pre-made frozen crusts save time, but feel free to use a homemade shortcrust for a personal touch. Bake it to golden perfection as the base for your delicious pie.
Glaze
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar: Provides the sweetness that balances the tartness of the strawberries.
- 3 tbsp cornstarch: Ensures a thick, smooth, and glossy glaze that clings to the strawberries.
- 1 ¼ cups water: Forms the base for the glaze while keeping it light and flavorful.
- 3 tbsp strawberry jelly: Intensifies the strawberry flavor and adds a vibrant sheen to the glaze.
Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced: The star of the pie! Use ripe, firm strawberries for the best flavor and presentation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Pie Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Follow the package instructions for your frozen pie crust. Typically, this will be around 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Crust: Prick the bottom of the crust lightly with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.
- Bake and Cool: Bake until the crust is golden and fully cooked, about 10–12 minutes. Let it cool completely—this ensures the strawberries and glaze stay fresh and vibrant.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Glaze
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small saucepan, whisk together 1 ¼ cups sugar and 3 tablespoons cornstarch.
- Add Water: Gradually pour in 1 ¼ cups water, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Cook the Glaze: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens into a glossy glaze.
- Incorporate the Jelly: Stir in 3 tablespoons of strawberry jelly until completely melted and incorporated.
- Cool the Glaze: Remove the glaze from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Cooling prevents the strawberries from wilting or softening too much when added.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Prepare the Strawberries: Wash, hull, and slice 2 cups of fresh strawberries. Arrange them evenly in the cooled pie crust. For an elegant touch, arrange the slices in concentric circles.
- Pour the Glaze: Pour the cooled strawberry glaze evenly over the strawberries, ensuring all pieces are coated. Use a spatula to spread the glaze into any gaps.
- Set the Pie: Refrigerate the assembled pie for 2–4 hours, or until the glaze is firm. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Toppings: Serve each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
- Garnish: Add a few whole strawberries or mint leaves for a decorative touch.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Choose the Best Strawberries: Opt for bright red, ripe strawberries with no bruises or soft spots for optimal flavor and presentation.
- Customize the Crust: Experiment with different crusts, like a graham cracker or chocolate crust, to complement the strawberry filling.
- Prevent Soggy Crust: Brush the baked crust with a thin layer of melted white or dark chocolate before adding the strawberries. This creates a barrier that prevents the crust from becoming soggy.
- Double the Recipe: If serving a crowd, double the glaze and make two pies. They’re guaranteed to disappear quickly!
- Storage: Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Avoid freezing, as the strawberries will lose their texture.
Why This Recipe Shines
- Simple and Elegant: The fresh strawberries and shiny glaze make this pie as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Quick to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this pie is perfect for last-minute dessert needs.
- Customizable: Add a layer of cream cheese or mascarpone to the crust before adding the strawberries for a creamy twist.
Savor the sweet taste of summer with Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie—a timeless dessert that’s easy to make yet leaves a lasting impression. Whether for a special occasion or a simple family treat, this pie is sure to delight!