Strawberry Pie Recipe
If you’re craving a dessert that bursts with the sweet and tangy flavor of fresh fruit while offering a wonderfully glossy finish, this Strawberry Pie Recipe is just the treat you need. Featuring a crisp pre-baked pie crust filled with luscious, plump strawberries coated in a shimmering strawberry gelatin glaze, this pie is a stunning centerpiece for any occasion. The ease of preparation combined with the vibrant taste makes it a timeless favorite that feels like summer in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet vital ingredients is key to achieving that perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and shine in your strawberry pie. Each ingredient plays its part, from the crisp crust to the juicy strawberries and that signature gelatin glaze which brings it all together beautifully.
- Pre-baked 9-inch pie crust: Provides a firm and buttery base that holds the filling without sogginess.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the gelatin mixture while enhancing the natural fruit flavor.
- Cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent, giving the filling a smooth, appealing consistency.
- Water: Used to dissolve the sugar and cornstarch, creating the glaze for the strawberries.
- Strawberry gelatin (3 oz package): Adds that glossy, vibrant color and enhances the strawberry taste.
- Fresh strawberries (4 cups, hulled and halved): The star ingredient that delivers juicy sweetness and texture.
- Whipped cream (optional): A light and creamy topping that balances the tartness of the pie.
How to Make Strawberry Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin Mixture
Start with a medium saucepan and whisk together the sugar and cornstarch until they’re evenly combined. Gradually add the water, stirring continuously to ensure there are no lumps. Heat this mixture over medium heat while stirring constantly. You want to watch closely as it thickens and just reaches a boil. Once boiling, let it cook for exactly one minute to achieve the perfect thickness, then promptly remove from heat. Stir in the strawberry gelatin powder right away, making sure it dissolves completely to create a smooth, glossy glaze. Let this mixture cool for about 10 to 15 minutes before moving on.
Step 2: Arrange the Strawberries
While your gelatin mixture is cooling, prepare your strawberries by hulling and halving them if you haven’t already. Then, elegantly arrange the strawberries in your pre-baked pie crust. For a more polished look, try placing some whole strawberries cut-side down alongside halves to add visual interest. This fresh fruit base gives your pie that authentic, juicy strawberry flavor and a lovely texture contrast to the silky glaze.
Step 3: Add the Gelatin Glaze
Once slightly cooled but still pourable, carefully pour the gelatin mixture over the strawberries. Use a spatula to gently spread the glaze if necessary, ensuring every berry is evenly coated without disturbing their arrangement. This step locks in freshness and imparts that classic shiny finish that makes the pie irresistible.
Step 4: Chill Until Set
Pop the pie into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least four hours, or until the gelatin is fully set. This waiting time is crucial for achieving a pie that slices beautifully and holds its shape when served. If you can, making the pie a day ahead is even better for flavors to meld.
How to Serve Strawberry Pie Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this Strawberry Pie Recipe is that it shines with simplicity, but a little touch here and there can elevate it even more. A generous dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, creamy contrast to the sweet, slightly tangy filling. For an extra pop, sprinkle some finely chopped fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving to brighten up the presentation.
Side Dishes
This pie is a perfect standalone dessert, but if you want to serve it alongside something else, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a small bowl of tangy lemon sorbet. The cool textures balance the pie’s richness beautifully. Fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette works well if you’re including it as part of a larger meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow guests, serve your strawberry pie in individual clear glasses or jars layered with fresh whipped cream or cream cheese mousse for a casual yet elegant twist. Another idea is to create mini tart versions using ready-made tart shells and smaller portions of the filling — perfect for parties or afternoon tea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, simply cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. This Strawberry Pie Recipe will stay fresh for up to two days, retaining its flavor and texture nicely, though it’s best enjoyed the same day for peak freshness and the crispiest crust.
Freezing
This pie is not ideal for freezing because the gelatin filling can become watery or lose its texture once thawed. For the best experience, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
Since the pie is a no-bake dessert, reheating is not recommended. Serve it chilled or at room temperature to preserve the wonderful qualities of the fresh strawberries and gelatin glaze.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the Strawberry Pie Recipe?
Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe to maintain texture and flavor. Frozen strawberries release extra moisture that can affect the gelatin setting and make the crust soggy.
How long does the strawberry pie keep in the fridge?
This pie stays good for up to two days in the refrigerator when properly covered, although it’s most delicious on the day it’s made.
Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust adds a wonderful personal touch. Just bake it until golden before adding the filling to prevent sogginess.
Is there a way to make the glaze without gelatin?
You can experiment with cornstarch-thickened strawberry jam or preserves, but the gelatin in this Strawberry Pie Recipe gives the signature shiny finish and firm set that’s hard to replace.
What type of whipped cream is best for topping?
Freshly whipped cream, lightly sweetened with a pinch of sugar and vanilla extract, complements the pie perfectly. Store-bought whipped topping works in a pinch, but fresh is best.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Strawberry Pie Recipe that combines ease, beauty, and flavor into one unforgettable dessert. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply want to enjoy a burst of summer sweetness any day of the week, this pie is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients come together to create such a memorable treat!
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Strawberry Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Strawberry Pie is a refreshing, no-bake dessert featuring a pre-baked pie crust filled with fresh strawberries and a luscious, homemade strawberry gelatin filling. Perfect for warm weather, it combines vibrant fruit flavors with a smooth, glossy finish and optional whipped cream topping for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup water
- 1 (3 oz) package strawberry gelatin (such as Jell-O)
- 4 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and halved)
Topping (Optional)
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the gelatin mixture: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar and cornstarch until combined. Gradually pour in the water while stirring to create a smooth mixture without lumps.
- Cook the filling: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, until it thickens and reaches a full boil. Maintain the boil for 1 minute, then remove the pan from heat.
- Dissolve the gelatin: Immediately stir in the strawberry gelatin powder, mixing thoroughly until fully dissolved and the mixture is uniform.
- Cool the gelatin: Allow the gelatin mixture to cool for about 10 to 15 minutes until it is slightly warm but not set, ensuring it doesn’t runny or too hot for the fruit.
- Assemble the pie: Arrange the halved fresh strawberries evenly over the pre-baked pie crust. Pour the cooled gelatin mixture carefully over the strawberries, spreading gently to coat all the fruit.
- Chill until set: Place the assembled pie in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is firm and set.
- Serve: Before serving, top the pie with whipped cream if desired for extra creaminess and presentation. Slice and enjoy this fresh, fruity dessert.
Notes
- For a visually appealing presentation, arrange whole or halved strawberries cut-side down in the crust before pouring the gelatin filling.
- This strawberry pie is best served on the day it is made for optimal freshness but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
