Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe

Welcome to the delightful world of Fresh Strawberry Pie! This sweet and refreshing dessert is perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant red strawberries nestled in a creamy glaze and a crunchy crust, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Fresh Strawberry Pie is a wonderful way to celebrate the sweetness of fresh strawberries. It is simple to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and offers a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s a fantastic dessert for summer gatherings, picnics, or even a cozy dinner at home. The combination of the crunchy crust and smooth filling makes it a unique treat that everyone will enjoy.

How to Make Fresh Strawberry Pie

Making your very own Fresh Strawberry Pie is easy and fun! Follow the simple steps below to create this beautiful dessert.

Ingredients:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup coarsely chopped pretzels
1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup granulated sugar
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 pounds fresh strawberries, tops removed (divided use)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup boiling water
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Prepare the crust by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, chopped pretzels, chopped pecans, and sugar in a medium bowl.
Stir in the melted butter until everything is combined.
Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a greased 9-inch springform pan.
Chill the crust in the refrigerator to set.
For the filling, puree 1 1/2 cups of the strawberries in a food processor.
In a saucepan, combine the pureed strawberries with sugar, boiling water, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens.
Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let it cool down.
Cut the remaining strawberries and mix them with the cooled glaze.
Pour this strawberry mixture into the prepared crust.
Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Serve with whipped cream if desired for an extra treat!

How to Serve Fresh Strawberry Pie

Fresh Strawberry Pie is best enjoyed after a good chill. Simply slice the pie into wedges and serve on dessert plates. For an extra touch, add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each slice. It’s great for gatherings, parties, or a sweet ending to any meal!

How to Store Fresh Strawberry Pie

You can store any leftover pie in the fridge. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. It will stay good for about 2 to 3 days. If you see any condensation, you might want to let it sit uncovered for a bit to avoid a soggy crust.

Tips to Make Fresh Strawberry Pie

Choose Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
Chill the Crust: Allow the crust to set properly in the refrigerator for a better texture.
Don’t Rush Cooling: Let the glaze cool before mixing in the fresh strawberries for a better consistency.
Add Lemon Zest: For an extra zing, you can add a little lemon zest to the glaze.

Variation

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some sliced bananas or a layer of cream cheese beneath the strawberries for a different flavor twist. You can also use other fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries to mix things up.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use, as they may release more liquid.

2. Can this pie be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for making a day ahead. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

3. Is it possible to make the crust gluten-free?
Yes, you can replace the graham cracker crumbs and pretzels with gluten-free alternatives to create a gluten-free version of this pie.

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Fresh Strawberry Pie with your loved ones!