When summer’s sweet embrace kicks in, there’s nothing quite like the vibrant burst of flavor that a homemade strawberry pie brings! As I mixed together the luscious strawberries, sugar, and that magical touch of strawberry jello, I could already imagine the smiles on my friends’ faces at our next gathering. This delectable pie not only makes your taste buds dance but is also a breeze to whip up, even on a busy weeknight.
Picture this: you’ve just spent a long day tackling your to-do list, and you’re in desperate need of a joyful kitchen moment. A few simple ingredients come together in a symphony of flavor and color, creating a delightful dessert that’ll transport you straight to a sun-soaked picnic day. With a crispy pie crust cradling a filling that’s both refreshing and comforting, this strawberry pie is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Plus, who can resist the allure of a dollop of whipped cream on top? Get ready to impress your loved ones—this pie might just become your new go-to recipe!
Why is Strawberry Pie a must-try?
Irresistible summer flavors: This pie bursts with fresh strawberry goodness, making it a perfect match for warm weather.
Quick and easy prep: With just a few ingredients and simple instructions, you can whip this dessert together in no time.
Crowd favorite: Its bright color and sweet taste will delight guests at any gathering, leaving them asking for seconds!
Versatile option: Enjoy it as is or enhance with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Meal prep friendly: Set it in the fridge and let it chill while you enjoy the company of your friends!
This delightful dish is sure to become your go-to sweet treat for casual gatherings and summer celebrations.
Strawberry Pie Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
• 9″ frozen pie crust – This saves time; just bake as per the package instructions for a perfectly crispy base.
For the Filling
• 1 cup sugar – Enhances the natural sweetness of strawberries; feel free to adjust based on preference!
• 1 1/2 cups water – This helps dissolve the cornstarch and create a smooth filling.
• 1/4 cup cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent, ensuring your filling has the right texture.
• 1 lb strawberries – Freshly sliced for the best flavor; frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch.
• 3 oz pkg strawberry jello – This gives the pie its beautiful color and sweet flavor in each bite.
Optional Topping
• Whipped cream – A delightful addition that adds creaminess and elevates the pie experience!
There you have it, the essential ingredients for your delicious strawberry pie! Prepare to enjoy a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite.
How to Make Strawberry Pie
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Bake the pie crust: Begin by baking the 9″ frozen pie crust according to the package directions. Once golden brown, remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
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Combine ingredients: In a large saucepan, add 1 cup of sugar and 1 1/2 cups of water. Heat over medium heat and slowly whisk in 1/4 cup of cornstarch until well incorporated.
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Thicken the mixture: Continue to stir continuously for about 4-5 minutes, until the mixture thickens and turns slightly clear. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
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Mix in the jello: Whisk in the 3 oz package of strawberry jello until completely dissolved. Let this mixture cool to room temperature.
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Toss in strawberries: Once the mixture has cooled, gently add in 1 lb of sliced strawberries and toss to coat evenly. Pour this delightful filling into the prepared pie crust.
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Chill the pie: Place the pie in the refrigerator to set for about 2-3 hours. Serve dolloped with whipped cream for that extra special touch if desired!
Optional: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Strawberry Pie?
Indulging in a slice of strawberry pie is a treat on its own, but pairing it with delightful sides can elevate your meal experience just a bit more.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic combination adds a rich, creamy contrast to the sweet, fruity pie that’s simply irresistible.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: Garnishing with mint not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a refreshing note that perfectly complements the strawberry flavor.
- Zesty Lemonade: A cold glass of lemonade balances the sweetness of the pie, offering a tangy refreshment that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
- Cheesy Strawberries Salad: Tossed greens with cheese and pecans create a beautiful texture contrast, adding both crunch and savory flavor to the table.
- Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Continue the strawberry theme with this decadent treat, creating a chocolatey counterpart that binds sweetness with richness.
- Champagne Spritzers: Light and bubbly, these fizzy drinks perfectly cleanse the palate between bites of the sweet pie, enhancing the overall enjoyment.
- Crispy Cheesecake Bars: This unique dessert option pairs well with the pie, providing a rich and creamy texture that keeps your guests delighted.
- Graham Cracker Crust Cookies: Serve these delightful bites for added crunch; the sweetness complements the pie without overpowering its freshness.
- Lemon Sorbet: An elegant, light choice that refreshes your taste buds between bites, making it a magnificent palate cleanser.
- Herb-Infused Water: Infuse your water with basil or rosemary to provide a soothing, aromatic drink that pairs wonderfully with the fruity flavors of the pie.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Pie
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Choose Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe, in-season strawberries for the best flavor. Avoid overripe ones, as they can make the pie too watery.
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Perfectly Set Pie: Let the pie chill for at least 2-3 hours to allow the filling to set properly. If cut too early, it may be runny.
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Whisking Technique: When combining the cornstarch, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. A smooth filling ensures a delightful texture for your strawberry pie.
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Dollop Wisely: If using whipped cream, add it just before serving to keep the pie looking fresh and inviting.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a splash of lemon juice to the filling for a zesty twist or mix in other berries for a mixed berry pie delight!
Make Ahead Options
These strawberry pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance. To maximize freshness, make the sugar, water, cornstarch, and jello mixture, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. The strawberries can also be sliced ahead of time—just toss them in a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. When you’re ready to assemble, simply combine the prepared filling with the strawberries, pour it into the baked pie crust, and refrigerate for another 2-3 hours until set. This way, your pie will still be just as delicious, and you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to impress your guests!
Strawberry Pie Variations
Feel free to elevate your delicious strawberry pie with these creative twists!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust or make a crust from crushed nuts and coconut for a fresh base.
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Berry Blend: Mix in other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a colorful and flavorful twist, creating a medley of summer fruits.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Add a decadent touch by drizzling melted chocolate over the top before serving. It adds richness, balancing the bright strawberries beautifully.
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the filling to brighten the flavor, adding a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of strawberries delightfully.
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Sugar-Free: Swap regular sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol to make a low-sugar dessert while keeping the taste intact.
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Cream Cheese Layer: Spread a layer of sweetened cream cheese in the pie crust before adding the strawberry filling. It adds a delightful creaminess!
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Extra Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, over the filling for an unexpected textured layer that surprises each bite.
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Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a hint of heat, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling for a unique combination of sweet and spicy flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Pie
Fridge: Store leftover strawberry pie in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap or foil, for up to 3 days. This keeps the pie fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: If you need to freeze your pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer, but for best quality, enjoy it sooner.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen pie, thaw it overnight in the fridge. You can serve it chilled or pop individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Just be sure to let it cool if it’s gotten warm!
Freshness Tip: For the best taste experience, consume the strawberry pie within a few days of making it. Fresh strawberries will maintain their flavor and texture when eaten soon after preparation.
Strawberry Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best strawberries for my pie?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red with a natural sheen. They should be firm to the touch and free from any dark spots or bruises. Overripe strawberries can make your pie too watery, so it’s best to avoid those. When in doubt, smell them! Fresh strawberries have a sweet aroma that indicates ripeness.
How should I store leftover strawberry pie?
Very simply! Cover any leftover strawberry pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. Just remember to keep it in a cool spot—this way, you can enjoy each slice full of flavor without any sogginess.
Can I freeze strawberry pie and how?
Definitely! To freeze your strawberry pie, first, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. For a warm treat, heat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
What should I do if my pie filling is runny?
Very common! If your filling turns out runnier than expected, make sure to follow the thickening process carefully. It’s crucial to stir continuously while cooking the sugar, water, and cornstarch for about 4-5 minutes to achieve the right consistency. Ensure the filling is cooled properly before adding the strawberries; this not only thickens the mixture but also helps the strawberries hold their shape.
Is there a way to make this strawberry pie recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can easily make this strawberry pie gluten-free by using a gluten-free pie crust instead of a regular one. Just verify that all your ingredients, including the cornstarch and jello, are gluten-free. With these simple swaps, you’ll still enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten!
Can I make strawberry pie with frozen strawberries?
Very much so! If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen strawberries can work in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid in your filling. You might need to adjust the sweetness a little, as frozen strawberries can be a tad less sweet than fresh ones. Enjoy the convenience!
Irresistible Strawberry Pie Recipe for Sweet Summer Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bake the pie crust: Begin by baking the 9" frozen pie crust according to the package directions. Once golden brown, remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
- Combine ingredients: In a large saucepan, add 1 cup of sugar and 1 1/2 cups of water. Heat over medium heat and slowly whisk in 1/4 cup of cornstarch until well incorporated.
- Thicken the mixture: Continue to stir continuously for about 4-5 minutes, until the mixture thickens and turns slightly clear. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Mix in the jello: Whisk in the 3 oz package of strawberry jello until completely dissolved. Let this mixture cool to room temperature.
- Toss in strawberries: Once the mixture has cooled, gently add in 1 lb of sliced strawberries and toss to coat evenly. Pour this delightful filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Chill the pie: Place the pie in the refrigerator to set for about 2-3 hours. Serve dolloped with whipped cream if desired!