Big Boys Fresh Strawberry Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Pre-bake your pie crust according to the package instructions or your recipe. Let it cool completely before filling.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Glaze

1. Puree strawberries: Blend about 1 cup of strawberries to make a puree. You’ll need 3/4 cup of puree for the glaze.
2. Cook the glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberry puree, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes clear.
3. Flavor the glaze: Once thickened, remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract and optional red food coloring. Let the glaze cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Arrange strawberries: Hull the remaining strawberries and arrange them in the cooled pie crust. You can place them whole or cut them in half, depending on your preference.
2. Glaze the strawberries: Pour the cooled strawberry glaze evenly over the arranged strawberries, ensuring all strawberries are coated.
3. Chill the pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2-3 hours, or until the glaze is set.

Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Cream

1. Whip the cream: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Decorate the pie: Once the pie is set, decorate it with whipped cream. You can pipe the whipped cream around the edges or cover the top, based on your preference.

Step 5: Serve

1. Slice and serve: Once the pie is fully chilled and set, slice it and serve with additional whipped cream if desired.

Visual Guide:

• Image 1: A pre-baked pie crust, golden and ready for filling.
• Image 2: The process of cooking the strawberry glaze, showing the mixture at various stages of thickening.
• Image 3: Arranging the strawberries in the crust, demonstrating the pattern for optimal presentation.
• Image 4: The pie after the glaze has been poured, showcasing the glossy finish.
• Image 5: The final pie, beautifully decorated with whipped cream, ready to be served.

Tips for Success:

• Choose ripe strawberries: For the best flavor, make sure your strawberries are ripe and sweet.
• Cool the glaze: Allow the glaze to cool to room temperature before pouring it over the strawberries to prevent it from melting the whipped cream.
• Chill thoroughly: Ensure the pie is fully chilled before serving; this allows the glaze to set and makes slicing easier.

Enjoy crafting this exquisite Fresh Strawberry Pie, a dessert that promises to be a feast for both the eyes and the palate, perfect for any occasion.