If you are on the hunt for a dessert that celebrates the sweet, sun-kissed flavor of fresh berries with a luscious, glossy finish, this Strawberry Pie Recipe is an absolute winner. Bursting with vibrant red strawberries nestled in a buttery, flaky crust and topped with a shimmering glaze, it’s a dessert that feels like a celebration of summer in every bite. Easy enough for a weeknight treat but stunning enough to bring to any gathering, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for sharing happiness at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Pie Recipe hinges on a handful of simple, accessible ingredients, each playing a vital role. From the flaky crust that cradles the filling to the perfectly sweetened strawberries coated in a glossy glaze — every item adds texture, flavor, and eye appeal to your masterpiece.
- Refrigerated pie crusts: These save time and provide a flaky, buttery base that holds the filling beautifully.
- Granulated sugar: Used both in the crust and filling to balance and enhance the strawberries’ natural sweetness.
- Fresh strawberries: The star ingredient, fresh and hulled for perfect bursts of juicy flavor in every bite.
- Cornstarch: This thickens the filling, giving it that luscious, sliceable consistency without being runny.
- Salt: Just a pinch to amplify all the sweet flavors and add depth.
- Water: Helps create a smooth mixture for the filling’s glaze and consistency.
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and a hint of tartness to balance the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: A warm, subtle undertone that rounds out the flavor.
- Strawberry jam or jelly: For the beautiful glaze that gives your pie that irresistible shine.
How to Make Strawberry Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crusts and carefully line a 9-inch pie dish with one of them, trimming and crimping the edges to your liking. A sprinkling of sugar over the crust before baking adds a subtle crunch and sweetness. Prick the crust’s bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling, then bake for 10 to 12 minutes until it turns a lovely light golden. Let it cool to room temperature — this ensures the crust stays crisp under the juicy filling.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Filling
The filling starts on the stovetop where sugar, cornstarch, and salt get whisked together first. Gradually add water and heat the mixture, stirring constantly to form a glossy, thick sauce. This part is crucial because it creates the luscious texture that holds all those juicy strawberry pieces intact. Once thickened, stir in fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract, which bring brightness and warmth to the flavor profile.
Step 3: Toss the Strawberries in the Filling
Take your halved, fresh strawberries and gently fold them into the slightly cooled sugar mixture. The key here is to coat every berry evenly without bruising them — keeping their shape and freshness intact adds to the pie’s beautiful presentation and delightful texture.
Step 4: Assemble and Glaze the Pie
Pour the strawberry mixture into your cooled pie crust, spreading the berries out in an even layer. For that signature shine and an extra burst of strawberry flavor, microwave jam mixed with water until smooth, then brush this glaze over the filling. This step not only makes your pie look like it came from a bakery but also helps seal the fruit so it stays fresh and enticing.
Step 5: Chill Until Set
Finally, place your pie in the refrigerator for at least three hours—or until the filling is fully set. Chilling allows all those flavors to meld and the filling to firm up so you get perfect slices every time. Serve chilled for the freshest experience and that classic strawberry pie enjoyment.
How to Serve Strawberry Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Top your strawberry pie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add creamy richness. For a festive touch, sprinkle toasted almond slices or fresh mint leaves on the top for both crunch and a pop of color.
Side Dishes
Serve slices alongside a light salad or a citrusy sorbet to complement the sweetness. For parties, this pie pairs beautifully with a glass of sparkling rosé or a crisp white wine, making it a perfect ending to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual slices with a drizzle of chocolate or balsamic reduction for a gourmet flair. You could also make mini strawberry pies using tart shells for an adorable handheld treat that’s just perfect for gatherings or picnics.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover strawberry pie covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the crust crisp and filling fresh, allowing you to enjoy your delicious creation for up to three days.
Freezing
Freezing strawberry pie is not recommended as the filling’s texture can become watery after thawing. However, the baked crust can be frozen separately and thawed before filling with fresh pie ingredients when desired.
Reheating
Because this pie is best served chilled, reheating is unnecessary and not advised. If you prefer it slightly warmer, let the slice sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before indulging.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries are ideal for this Strawberry Pie Recipe because they hold their shape better and have more vibrant flavor. Frozen strawberries tend to release more water and could make the filling runny, but if you use frozen, thaw and drain them thoroughly first.
Is it necessary to pre-bake the crust?
Yes, prebaking the crust prevents it from becoming soggy once the filling is added. It ensures a crisp, flaky base that perfectly supports the juicy strawberry filling.
How long should the pie chill before serving?
Your pie needs at least three hours of chilling to allow the filling to set properly. For the best texture and flavor, chilling overnight is even better.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free pie crust in place of traditional refrigerated crusts, and be sure your cornstarch and other ingredients are gluten-free as well to keep the pie safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
What is the best way to slice the pie cleanly?
For neat slices, chill the pie thoroughly and use a sharp knife dipped in warm water before each cut. Wiping the knife between cuts helps keep the slices from sticking and preserves presentation.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Strawberry Pie Recipe that makes it a family favorite and perfect for sharing with friends. Its simplicity, fresh flavors, and beautiful presentation make it a joy to bake and an even greater pleasure to eat. Give this recipe a try, and watch how effortlessly it becomes a delightful highlight of your dessert repertoire.
Print
Strawberry Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Strawberry Pie features a flaky homemade or refrigerated pie crust filled with a luscious, glossy strawberry filling. Sweetened with sugar and enhanced with vanilla and lemon juice, this refreshing dessert is finished with a strawberry jam glaze for an irresistible shine. Perfectly chilled, it’s an ideal summertime treat for family and friends.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pie crust)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling on the crust)
For the filling:
- 1 1/2 lbs fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the glaze:
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam or jelly
- 1 tbsp water
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crusts and fit them into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges and crimp to form a decorative border. Optionally, sprinkle a tablespoon of sugar on the crust to add sweetness and texture.
- Bake the crust: Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Make the filling base: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the water until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Flavor the filling: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before proceeding.
- Combine strawberries with filling: In a large bowl, gently toss the halved strawberries with the slightly cooled sugar mixture, ensuring each berry is evenly coated for an even distribution of flavor.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the strawberry filling into the cooled pie crust, spreading the berries out evenly for a balanced appearance and taste.
- Prepare and apply glaze: In a small microwave-safe bowl, heat the strawberry jam and water for 20-30 seconds until smooth. Stir and brush this glaze evenly over the strawberries to impart a glossy, professional look.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours or until the filling is fully set. Serve chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully for the perfect dessert experience.
Notes
- For a crisper crust, consider blind baking the pie crust with pie weights for the initial bake.
- Fresh strawberries work best, but frozen can be used; just thaw and drain well before using.
- You can substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a slightly different citrus note.
- Use seedless strawberry jam for a smoother glaze.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best freshness.
