Desserts

Classic Strawberry Pie

Name: Classic Strawberry Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pre-made pie crust; 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; 1 cup sugar; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon butter; Whipped cream (optional, for serving)

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Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 220
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 130mg

Classic Strawberry Pie is a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of summer. With its vibrant red strawberries nestled in a sweet, glossy syrup and nestled in a flaky crust, it’s a beautiful sight that tempts both the eyes and the taste buds. This pie not only brings nostalgia but also a burst of fresh flavor that is hard to resist. Whether you serve it at a barbecue, a family gathering, or just as a sweet treat after dinner, this strawberry pie will surely win hearts.

Why Make This Classic Strawberry Pie

Making a Classic Strawberry Pie allows you to celebrate one of nature’s most delicious fruits in all its glory. Strawberries are not only sweet and juicy but also packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. This pie is a fantastic way to showcase their flavor, making it a favorite for both young and old. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. The impressive result will have everyone thinking you spent hours in the kitchen!

How to Make Classic Strawberry Pie

Ingredients:

1 pre-made pie crust
4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
1 cup sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon butter
Whipped cream (optional, for serving)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the pre-made pie crust and place it in a pie dish. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Once baked, let it cool completely before adding the strawberry filling.

Step 2: Mixing

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of sugar with cornstarch and salt. Slowly pour in 1 cup of water, stirring continuously. Watch as the mixture begins to thicken and become translucent—this will create a luscious syrup that binds the strawberries together beautifully.

Step 3: Cooking

Remove the saucepan from heat and add in the lemon juice and butter. Stir until the butter is melted and the ingredients are well combined. Let this sweet sauce cool slightly to prevent it from cooking the fresh strawberries.

Step 4: Finishing

In a mixing bowl, arrange the halved strawberries. Carefully pour the cooled syrup over the strawberries, gently stirring to coat each piece. Once the strawberries are coated, pour this vibrant mixture into the cooled pie crust. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the pie to set. When ready to serve, add a dollop of whipped cream if desired to enhance the experience.

How to Serve Classic Strawberry Pie

Serving Classic Strawberry Pie is as easy as pie! Slice it into generous wedges and offer whipped cream on the side for guests to add if they wish. This pie pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or a scoop of frozen yogurt for dessert enthusiasts. It’s also a fabulous centerpiece for summer picnics or barbeques, where its bright color adds cheer to any table.

How to Store Classic Strawberry Pie

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), store your pie in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Properly stored, it will last for up to 3 days in the fridge, maintaining its delicious flavor and texture. However, freezing is not recommended due to the moisture from the strawberries leading to a soggy pie crust upon thawing.

Expert Tips for Perfect Classic Strawberry Pie

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the syrup mix.
Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor. Look for ones that are bright red without bruises.
If you like a bit of tartness, feel free to add more lemon juice to the syrup.
If desired, you can swap out some of the strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry pie.
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free pie crust.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Strawberry Pie: Add a layer of melted chocolate to the pre-baked pie crust before filling it with strawberries.
Cream Cheese Strawberry Pie: Mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and spread it in the bottom of the pie crust before adding the strawberries for a creamier texture.
Lemon Basil Strawberry Pie: Infuse the syrup with chopped fresh basil and a touch of lemon zest for a refreshing twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
While fresh strawberries are ideal for their texture and taste, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy pie.

2. How can I prevent the pie crust from getting soggy?
Baking the pie crust until golden brown and allowing it to cool completely before adding the filling helps prevent sogginess. You can also brush a thin layer of melted butter or chocolate on the bottom of the crust before filling.

3. How do I know when the pie is set?
The pie should be firm to the touch after chilling in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. The syrup will solidify as it cools, binding the strawberries together.

4. Can I make this pie in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day ahead of serving. Just store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy it.

5. What should I do if my syrup is too thick?
If the syrup becomes too thick while cooling, you can stir in a tablespoon of water to reach your desired consistency before pouring it over the strawberries.

Conclusion

Classic Strawberry Pie is a must-try for any dessert lover. Its combination of fresh strawberries with a simple, glossy syrup and flaky crust is nothing short of delightful. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a slice on a warm day, this pie promises to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and create a treat that captures the taste of summer in every bite!