Strawberry Pie

Made with fresh, aromatic strawberries and a buttery, flaky crust, this Strawberry Pie is my go-to recipe for any BBQ, picnic, or summer weeknight treat. This delightful dessert showcases the sweetness of strawberries in every bite, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or just a special treat at home. Don’t forget the dollop of cream!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Flavor: Enjoy the vibrant taste of ripe strawberries combined with a deliciously flaky crust.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this pie even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer picnic or a holiday gathering, this Strawberry Pie fits right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak the recipe by adding your favorite spices or toppings to make it your own.
• Family Favorite: It’s bound to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Strawberry Pie, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish (9-inch)
• Paring knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Speeds up the process of mixing dough for that perfect flaky crust.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients before baking; helps keep everything organized.
• Rolling pin: Helps you roll out the dough evenly for a beautifully shaped pie crust.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup very cold unsalted butter (cut in cubes (2 sticks))
• 1/2 cup cold water (up to 2/3 cup if needed)

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 4 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

For Topping

• 2 tbsp milk
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar

How to Make Strawberry Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. In a food processor, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Pulse to mix well.
2. Add in the chilled butter, pulsing until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add cold water until dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine sugar, flour, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add sliced strawberries and gently fold in vanilla extract. Let sit for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out half of your chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches wide. Place it into your baking dish.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pie

1. Pour strawberry filling into the prepared crust.
2. Roll out remaining dough and cover the filling; seal edges by crimping with fingers or fork.

Step 6: Bake

Brush top with milk and sprinkle with sugar. Bake in preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let your Strawberry Pie cool for at least an hour before slicing. Serve with whipped cream for an extra treat!

Enjoy making this classic Strawberry Pie that will surely impress everyone at your next gathering!

How to Serve Strawberry Pie

Serving Strawberry Pie is as delightful as making it. This dessert can be enjoyed in many ways, elevating the flavors and presentation for your guests or family.

Classic with Whipped Cream

• Serve a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for an extra creamy texture.

A La Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream beside the pie slice. The cold ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm pie.

Fresh Mint Garnish

• Top each slice with a fresh mint leaf. This adds a pop of color and a refreshing taste.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• For those who love chocolate, drizzle some rich chocolate sauce over the pie slice for added decadence.

Yogurt Swirl

• Serve with a swirl of Greek yogurt. It adds tanginess that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.

Strawberries on Top

• Use whole or sliced strawberries to enhance the freshness of your serving. It makes for an attractive presentation.

How to Perfect Strawberry Pie

To create a flawless Strawberry Pie, consider these helpful tips that ensure great flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Opt for ripe, fresh strawberries as they provide the best flavor and sweetness.
• Chill Your Dough: Make sure to chill your pie crust before baking. This helps maintain its flakiness when baked.
• Adjust Sugar to Taste: Depending on the sweetness of your strawberries, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in your filling.
• Let it Cool Before Serving: Allow your pie to cool completely after baking. This helps the filling set nicely.
• Cover Edges While Baking: If edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning while allowing the center to cook through.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Pie can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some perfect companions:

1. Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade complements the sweetness of Strawberry Pie beautifully.
2. Ice Tea: Cold iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, offers a nice contrast to the pie’s richness.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides additional freshness and balances out the dessert’s heaviness.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can add savory notes that contrast well with sweet flavors.
5. Grilled Peaches: Grilled peaches bring out their natural sugars and pair delightfully with strawberry flavors.
6. Pecan Sandies: These buttery cookies add a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft pie filling.
7. Vanilla Custard: A smooth vanilla custard can elevate each bite of pie and add creaminess.
8. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic chocolate chip cookies are always a hit and add a fun element alongside dessert!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Strawberry Pie can be delightful, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using Warm Butter: Using warm butter can lead to a tough crust. Always ensure your butter is very cold for a flaky texture.
• Skipping the Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough before rolling it out may cause shrinkage during baking. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can make the crust dense and chewy. Mix just until combined for the best results.
• Ignoring Fresh Strawberries: Using frozen strawberries can lead to excess moisture in your pie. Opt for fresh strawberries whenever possible.
• Neglecting to Adjust Sugar: Not adjusting sugar based on strawberry sweetness can result in an unbalanced flavor. Taste your strawberries before adding sugar.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• If possible, cover with plastic wrap directly on the pie’s surface to keep it fresh.

Freezing Strawberry Pie

• Freeze unbaked pie for up to 3 months – wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Baked pie can be frozen as well, but consume within 2 months for best flavor.

Reheating Strawberry Pie

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat pie for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 30 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm carefully to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Pie:

How do I make sure my Strawberry Pie crust is flaky?

To achieve a flaky crust, use very cold butter and avoid overworking the dough. Chilling the dough before rolling it out also helps.

Can I use other fruits in this pie?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on strawberries, you can substitute other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for delicious variations.

What should I serve with Strawberry Pie?

Strawberry Pie pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. A dollop of cream enhances its flavors beautifully.

How long does Strawberry Pie last?

In the refrigerator, Strawberry Pie lasts about 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Can I make Strawberry Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance or freeze it unbaked and bake it fresh when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Pie is not only a summer favorite but also highly versatile! You can customize it with various fruits or toppings based on your preference. Whether it’s for a family gathering or just a sweet treat at home, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!