Name: Strawberry Pie Recipe with Strawberry Crust
Prep time: 165 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 210 min
Ingredients: ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 2½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed for dusting); ½ teaspoon fine sea salt; 2 sticks cold unsalted butter (cut into ½ inch-cubes); ¼ cup ice water (plus more as needed); 5 cups fresh strawberries (halved); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract; Pinch fine sea salt; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; ⅓ cup cornstarch; 1 large egg white; sanding sugar (for finishing)

Introduction to Strawberry Pie Recipe

Summer is here, and what better way to celebrate the sunny days than with a delightful strawberry pie recipe? This luscious dessert captures the essence of the season with its vibrant colors and sweet, juicy strawberries. Each slice is like a bite of summer sunshine, making it the perfect choice for gatherings, picnics, or simply indulging on a warm afternoon.

Why Strawberry Pie is the Ultimate Summer Dessert

Strawberries are often dubbed the jewels of summer, shining brightly in markets and gardens. With their rich flavor and enticing aroma, they become the star of this pie. Imagine a buttery, flaky crust cradling a tantalizing filling of fresh strawberries combined with just the right amount of sweetness and acidity. The balance of flavors harmonizes beautifully, creating a dessert that celebrates the season's bounty.

Moreover, a strawberry pie is remarkably versatile. You can serve it at family barbecues, birthday parties, or cozy evenings with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. It's easy to make, and your friends and family will be amazed by your baking skills! So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to whip up a delightful strawberry pie that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

For more inspiration, check out this guide for fresh strawberry selection tips!

Ingredients for Strawberry Pie

Overview of the Crust Ingredients

For the strawberry pie crust, you’ll need a few key ingredients that ensure a deliciously flaky base. Start with freeze-dried strawberries, which not only add vibrant color but also enhance the flavor. You'll also need all-purpose flour for structure, fine sea salt to balance the sweetness, and unsalted butter—use cold butter that’s been cut into cubes for that perfect flaky texture. Don’t forget a bit of granulated sugar to sweeten the crust and ice water to help bring it all together.

Overview of the Filling Ingredients

Moving on to the filling, this is where the magic truly happens! You will want to gather fresh strawberries, as they are the star of the show. Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice for brightness, and a dash of pure vanilla extract to deepen the flavor. A pinch of fine sea salt will enhance the sweetness of the berries, while granulated sugar and cornstarch help thicken the filling perfectly. Finally, an egg white is used for an egg wash, making your pie shine.

For a complete experience, check out more on pie-making tips here.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Strawberry Pie

Creating a delicious strawberry pie with a delightful strawberry crust is simpler than you might think! Follow these easy steps to impress your friends and family or even just treat yourself. Get ready to hand them the recipe!

Make the Strawberry Pie Crust

Start by gathering your ingredients: freeze-dried strawberries, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and ice water. The freeze-dried strawberries will give your crust a unique flavor and a lovely pink hue.
In a food processor, pulse the freeze-dried strawberries and granulated sugar together until they form a fine powder. This step adds that special strawberry touch you'll love!
Next, mix in the flour and salt until combined. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles small peas—this is key for a flaky crust!
Make a well in the center of your flour mix and pour in the ice-cold water, mixing with your hands until it all comes together. If it's too crumbly, add a touch more water, 1 tablespoon at a time.
Divide your dough into two disks, wrap them in plastic, and chill while you prepare the filling. Chilling the dough is a crucial trick for a tender crust.

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, toss together 5 cups of fresh strawberries, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This combination brings brightness to the pie.
In another bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and cornstarch. This mixture thickens the filling and balances the sweetness. Add it to the strawberries and stir gently until combined.

Assemble the Pie

Roll out one disk of the chilled dough on a floured surface to ¼ inch thickness. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie plate, trimming any excess overhang to about ½ inch.
Pour your luscious filling into the pie crust and pop it into the refrigerator while you make the lattice crust. Keeping it cold helps to firm up the crust.

Create the Lattice Crust

Roll out the second disk of dough to ¼ inch thick. Cut it into 1½-inch strips.
Lay out five strips vertically on top of the filling. Fold every other strip back to create space and layer a horizontal strip over them. Release the vertical strips back down. Repeat this weaving pattern until your pie is beautifully adorned!
Trim and crimp the edges to finish off your masterpiece.

Bake the Pie

Chill your assembled pie for 20 minutes while preheating the oven to 425°F. This step ensures a perfectly baked crust.
Brush the top with an egg wash and sprinkle sanding sugar for a touch of sparkle. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Finally, allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. Trust us—patience brings the best flavor!

Now you have a stunning dessert that showcases the fantastic flavors of strawberries! Enjoy every slice of your beautifully crafted strawberry pie! For more delightful dessert ideas, check out Serious Eats or Bon Appétit.

Variations on Strawberry Pie

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

If you’re looking to elevate your strawberry pie recipe, consider adding rhubarb for a vibrant twist. The tartness of rhubarb perfectly balances the sweetness of strawberries, creating a deliciously complex flavor profile. Simply combine equal parts of fresh strawberries and rhubarb, and follow the same filling process as your traditional strawberry pie. If you prefer a hit of spice, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg works wonders too.

Gluten-Free Strawberry Pie

For those avoiding gluten, you can still indulge in this delightful treat! Simply substitute traditional flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring you choose one that measures cup-for-cup to keep the texture just right. You’ll love how easy it is to tailor your strawberry pie recipe to fit dietary needs without sacrificing taste. Adding a bit of almond flour can provide a unique nutty flavor that complements the strawberries perfectly. Check out gluten-free resources for more ideas!

Feel free to explore variations that suit your unique taste preferences!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Strawberry Pie

Tips for Achieving a Flaky Crust

To create that perfectly flaky crust in your strawberry pie recipe, start with cold ingredients. Ensure your butter is well-chilled and handle the dough as little as possible to keep the warmth of your hands from melting the fat. A quick chill in the refrigerator after rolling can also enhance the flakiness. Lastly, avoid overworking the dough; mix just until combined for the best results.

Notes on Selecting the Best Strawberries

When choosing strawberries for your pie, look for vibrant red, plump berries without any bruises or soft spots. Fresh strawberries are essential for that juicy filling. If you can, try local farmers' markets or consider organic options, as these can often provide superior flavor and quality. The fresher the strawberries, the more flavorful your pie will be! For more tips on berry selection, check out this guide on fresh strawberries.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Pie

A la mode with whipped cream

Elevate your strawberry pie recipe experience by serving it warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream and a dollop of whipped cream. This delightful combination creates a creamy counterpoint to the sweet, fresh flavors of the pie and adds a charming touch to any dessert table.

Pairing with fresh mint

For an added burst of flavor, garnish each slice of strawberry pie with fresh mint leaves. The cool, refreshing taste of mint beautifully complements the strawberries, enhancing the pie's vibrant taste. Plus, it makes for a visually appealing presentation—just imagine those pops of green atop your beautiful, red dessert!

For further ideas, check out Strawberry Pairings to explore flavors that can take your pie to another level!

Time Breakdown for Strawberry Pie

Preparation Time

Get ready to roll! The preparation for this delightful strawberry pie recipe takes about 30 minutes. This includes making the strawberry pie crust and preparing your luscious filling.

Cooking Time

Once your pie is assembled, pop it in the oven for approximately 40 to 45 minutes. Just enough time to enjoy the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Total Time

When all is said and done, expect the entire process to take around 2 hours and 45 minutes. This includes chilling time for the crust and cooling the pie before serving. Perfect for planning a fun baking day!

For more tips on creating delicious desserts, check out resources like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit. Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Pie

Calories

A slice of this delicious strawberry pie recipe typically contains about 250 calories. While it’s a treat, moderation is key!

Sugars

Each serving has approximately 20 grams of sugar, primarily from the natural sweetness of strawberries and added granulated sugar. Enjoy the burst of flavor!

Fiber content

This delightful pie offers about 2 grams of fiber per slice, thanks to the fresh strawberries. Incorporating fiber into your dessert makes it more satisfying and nutritious!

For more on the benefits of strawberries and nutrition, check out Healthline.

FAQs About Strawberry Pie Recipe

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Absolutely! You can use frozen strawberries in your strawberry pie recipe. Just keep in mind that they may release more liquid as they bake, so it's a good idea to slightly increase the cornstarch in the filling or allow the pie to cool longer before slicing to help it set properly. For best results, thaw the strawberries and drain any excess juice before using them in the pie.

How do I store leftover strawberry pie?

To keep your leftover strawberry pie fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn, and they can last for about 2 to 3 months.

What are the best substitutes for cornstarch?

If you’re looking for a substitute for cornstarch in your filling, consider using all-purpose flour, arrowroot powder, or tapioca starch. Each has its own thickening capabilities, but they can effectively create that desired pie filling consistency. Just remember to adjust the amounts, as these alternatives may require different measurements!

Conclusion on Strawberry Pie Recipe

Summing up the joy of homemade strawberry pie

Creating your own strawberry pie is more than just following a recipe; it's about the delightful experience of baking. The fresh strawberries, combined with a vibrant strawberry crust, elevate any occasion. Whether enjoyed at a summer picnic or family gathering, each bite is a sweet reminder of time spent in the kitchen creating something truly special. And who can resist that?

For more delightful baking ideas, check out The Spruce Eats for inspiration.