Fresh Strawberry Pie

• 1 1/2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Pie Crust

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough starts to come together. You may not need all the water.
4. Form the Dough: Gather the dough into a ball and flatten it into a disk. Wrap the disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges as desired.
6. Blind Bake the Crust: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the pie crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment paper. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Preparing the Strawberry Filling

1. Prepare the Strawberries: Hull and halve the strawberries. Arrange about half of the strawberries in the cooled pie crust.
2. Cook the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes clear. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Lemon Juice and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract.
4. Mix with Strawberries: Gently fold the remaining strawberries into the cooked mixture. Pour the strawberry mixture over the strawberries in the pie crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Chilling and Serving

1. Chill the Pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours, or until it is set and thoroughly chilled.
2. Garnish and Serve: Serve the fresh strawberry pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a touch of color.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Pie

• Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture. Avoid overripe strawberries as they can make the filling too watery.
• Chill the Dough: Ensure the dough is well-chilled before rolling it out to make it easier to handle and to prevent shrinking during baking.
• Blind Baking: Blind baking the crust prevents it from becoming soggy when the filling is added.

Variations and Add-Ins

• Mixed Berry Pie: Combine strawberries with other fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry pie.
• Glazed Strawberry Pie: Brush the top of the pie with a thin layer of apricot jam for a glossy finish.
• Cream Cheese Layer: Spread a thin layer of sweetened cream cheese on the bottom of the crust before adding the strawberries for a creamy surprise.

Pairing Suggestions

Enhance your dessert with complementary sides and beverages:

• Beverages: Pair with a chilled glass of white wine, sparkling water, or iced tea.
• Sides: Serve with a fresh fruit salad or a light summer salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Dessert: Complement with other light desserts like lemon bars or a citrus sorbet.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Runny Filling: Ensure the cornstarch mixture is cooked until thick and clear to avoid a runny filling. Allow the pie to chill completely before slicing.
• Soggy Crust: Blind baking the crust is essential to prevent it from becoming soggy. Make sure the crust is fully baked and golden brown before adding the filling.
• Uneven Dough: Roll the dough evenly to avoid thick or thin spots, which can cause uneven baking.

The Joy of Baking: A Sweet Experience

Baking a fresh strawberry pie is not only about the delicious result but also the joy of creating something special from scratch. Here are some tips to make your baking experience even more enjoyable:

• Music and Ambiance: Play your favorite music or a relaxing playlist to set a cheerful mood in the kitchen.
• Involve Others: Invite family or friends to help with the preparation. Baking together can be a fun and bonding experience.
• Savor the Process: Take your time with each step, enjoying the aromas, textures, and flavors as you bake.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve mastered the art of making a Fresh Strawberry Pie. This delightful dessert is perfect for showcasing the sweet and juicy flavor of fresh strawberries in a simple yet elegant way. Whether for a summer gathering or a sweet treat after dinner, this pie is sure to impress.

Enjoy the process of baking and sharing this delightful pie with your loved ones. Serve it with your favorite accompaniments and savor every bite. Happy baking!

Key Takeaway

Fresh Strawberry Pie is a quick, delicious, and easy-to-make treat that combines a buttery crust with a sweet and tangy strawberry filling. This detailed recipe ensures a perfect result every time, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings, picnics, or a sweet treat after dinner. Embrace the joy of baking to create a memorable and delightful experience.