The Most Beautiful Strawberry Pie That Tastes Like Pure Summer Heaven!

Discover this easy homemade strawberry pie recipe featuring fresh strawberries and a flaky crust. Perfect for summer desserts, this quick strawberry pie recipe from www.dailymeatrecipe.com delivers amazing flavor every time.

Introduction

Nothing says summer quite like a slice of fresh strawberry pie cooling on your windowsill. This classic strawberry pie recipe transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into a dessert that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you are hosting a backyard barbecue, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet and refreshing, this homemade strawberry pie delivers the perfect balance of sweet, juicy strawberries nestled in a buttery, flaky crust.

What makes this strawberry pie recipe truly special is its simplicity. You do not need to be an experienced baker to create this stunning dessert. With just a handful of common ingredients and some fresh strawberries, you can craft a pie that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery. The recipe focuses on letting the natural sweetness and vibrant flavor of fresh strawberries shine through, while a hint of lemon brightens every bite.

This strawberry pie is incredibly versatile and works beautifully for any occasion. Serve it at summer picnics, holiday gatherings, or as a delightful ending to a weeknight dinner. The best part is that this recipe can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy hosts who want to impress their guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup vegetable shortening or cold butter
• 6-8 tablespoons cold water

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 6 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces

For the Glaze:

• 1/4 cup strawberry jam or jelly
• 1 tablespoon water

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving (1 slice, serves 8):

• Calories: 285
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 320mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 28g
• Protein: 4g
• Vitamin C: 65% Daily Value
• Potassium: 180mg

This strawberry pie provides excellent vitamin C content from fresh strawberries while delivering moderate calories per serving. The carbs come primarily from natural fruit sugars and the pie crust, making this dessert a relatively balanced treat when enjoyed in moderation.

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Begin by making your homemade pie crust. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the shortening or cold butter using a pastry cutter or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough holds together. Divide the dough in half, shape into balls, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Roll and Shape the Crust

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one ball of dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Transfer the dough to the pan and trim edges, leaving about 1 inch overhang. Roll out the second ball of dough for the top crust. Place both crusts in the refrigerator while preparing the strawberry filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, gently combine sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their natural juices. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract, ensuring all strawberries are evenly coated with the mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Strawberry Pie

Remove the bottom crust from the refrigerator and fill with the prepared strawberry mixture. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter. Cover with the top crust and trim excess dough. Crimp the edges to seal the pie. Cut several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Place the assembled strawberry pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and continue baking for 35-45 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze and Finish

While the pie is still warm, prepare the glaze by heating strawberry jam with water in a small saucepan until smooth. Brush the glaze over the top crust for a beautiful, glossy finish. Allow the pie to cool completely before serving, at least 3 hours, to ensure the filling sets properly.

Serving Suggestions

This fresh strawberry pie is delicious on its own, but there are several ways to elevate your dessert experience. Serve each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. The cool, creamy texture provides a perfect contrast to the warm, fruity pie filling.

For a more elegant presentation, dust the plate with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh mint leaves and additional sliced strawberries. This creates a restaurant-quality dessert that will impress any dinner party guests.

Consider pairing your strawberry pie with complementary beverages. A cup of coffee or black tea enhances the fruit flavors, while a glass of cold milk provides a classic, comforting combination. For special occasions, serve with champagne or a light dessert wine to create a memorable meal ending.

Pro Tips

Success with this strawberry pie recipe depends on several key techniques. First, use the freshest strawberries possible for the best flavor and texture. Look for berries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant. Avoid strawberries that are soft, pale, or have white or green areas.

Keep your pie crust ingredients cold throughout the preparation process. Cold butter or shortening creates the flaky texture that makes homemade pie crust superior to store-bought alternatives. If your kitchen is particularly warm, chill your mixing bowl and utensils before beginning.

Do not skip the resting time for the strawberry filling. Allowing the mixture to sit for 15 minutes helps the cornstarch dissolve properly and ensures your pie will thicken correctly during baking. This prevents a runny filling that can make your crust soggy.

To prevent over-browning, cover the edges of your pie crust with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking. This technique ensures even browning and prevents burnt edges while allowing the center to cook thoroughly.

Variations

This basic strawberry pie recipe serves as an excellent foundation for creative variations. For a strawberry rhubarb pie, replace 2 cups of strawberries with diced rhubarb and increase the sugar by 1/4 cup to balance the tartness. The combination creates a perfect sweet-tart flavor profile.

Create a mixed berry pie by substituting 2 cups of strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. Adjust the sugar slightly based on the sweetness of your chosen berries. This variation adds visual appeal and complex flavor notes to your dessert.

For those following gluten-free diets, substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust with a gluten-free flour blend. Add 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum if your flour blend does not already contain it. The texture will be slightly different but equally delicious.

Make individual strawberry hand pies by cutting the dough into circles, filling with a small amount of strawberry mixture, and sealing the edges. These portable treats are perfect for picnics and lunch boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries in this pie recipe? Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using. You may need to increase the cornstarch by 1 tablespoon to account for the additional moisture from frozen berries.

How long will this strawberry pie keep? Store the finished pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The crust may soften slightly over time, but the flavor remains excellent. For best texture, consume within 2-3 days of baking.

Can I make this pie ahead of time? Absolutely. This strawberry pie actually improves in flavor after sitting overnight. Prepare the pie completely, allow it to cool, then refrigerate. The filling will set properly and the flavors will meld beautifully.

What if my pie filling is too runny? If your filling seems thin after cooling, the cornstarch may not have activated properly. Make sure to let the strawberry mixture sit for the full 15 minutes before baking, and ensure your oven temperature is accurate.

Can I freeze this strawberry pie? Yes, this pie freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

This classic strawberry pie recipe proves that the most beloved desserts often come from the simplest ingredients and techniques. By focusing on fresh, quality strawberries and traditional baking methods, you create a dessert that celebrates the natural sweetness and vibrant flavor of summer fruit. The combination of flaky, buttery crust and perfectly spiced strawberry filling makes every bite a delightful experience.

Whether you are an experienced baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe provides clear instructions and helpful tips to ensure success. The versatility of this strawberry pie means you can adapt it to suit different dietary needs or flavor preferences while maintaining the classic appeal that makes it a family favorite.

We encourage you to try this delicious strawberry pie recipe and share your results with friends and family. Take photos of your finished pie and experiment with the suggested variations to make the recipe your own. Visit www.dailymeatrecipe.com regularly for more amazing recipes that will inspire your cooking and bring joy to your kitchen. Leave a comment below to let us know how your strawberry pie turned out, and do not forget to share this recipe with fellow baking enthusiasts who appreciate homemade desserts made with love.