Strawberry pie is a classic dessert that always stays popular. If you are looking for a delicious strawberry pie recipe, look no further. There’s something timeless about the way fresh, juicy strawberries come together with a buttery crust and a sweet, glossy filling. It’s simple yet impressive, making it perfect for all kinds of occasions. If you want to make a strawberry pie from scratch, you’ve come to the right spot.
In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect strawberry pie. From choosing the best strawberries to creating a foolproof filling, we’ll cover it all. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:
- A list of easy-to-find ingredients that make this pie shine.
- Step-by-step instructions for creating a flaky pie crust.
- Tips for making the most flavorful strawberry filling.
- Fun twists and variations to try, like adding rhubarb or cream.
This strawberry pie recipe is ideal for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. You’ll learn how to balance the sweetness, achieve that perfect set in the filling, and make a pie that slices beautifully every time.
But it’s not just about technique—this pie is about creating something that brings joy. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic, surprising your family at dinner, or just treating yourself, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident tackling any strawberry pie recipe. So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s get started on making a dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious.
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Ingredients for a Delicious Strawberry Pie Recipe
The best strawberry pie starts with the right ingredients. Fresh strawberries are the star of the show, so make sure they’re ripe and juicy. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pre-baked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 5 cups fresh strawberries, hulled
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Whipped cream for serving (optional)
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference. Frozen strawberries can work in a pinch, but fresh ones give the pie its vibrant flavor and texture.
How to Make the Pie Crust
Every great pie starts with a great crust. Sure, you can grab one from the store, but there’s something satisfying about making it from scratch. Don’t worry—it’s not as intimidating as it sounds. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you’ll have a buttery, flaky crust that’s worth the extra effort.
Here’s what recipe ingredients you’ll need for your strawberry pie crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 4-6 tablespoons ice water
Steps to make the crust:
- Combine the flour and salt in a medium-sized bowl.
- Add the cold, diced butter. Use a pastry cutter (or your fingers) to mix until the texture looks like coarse crumbs.
- Slowly drizzle in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, while stirring. Stop when the dough holds together but isn’t sticky.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface, then carefully fit it into your pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges for a polished look.
- Bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, or until it’s a beautiful golden color.
A few tips:
- Make sure the butter stays cold—that’s the secret to a flaky crust.
- If you don’t have a pastry cutter, a fork works just fine.
- Don’t overwork the dough; it should come together easily without a lot of kneading.
Preparing the Strawberry Filling
The filling can make or break a strawberry pie recipe. It’s the heart of the dessert, and getting it right is key to that perfect slice. But don’t worry—it’s easier than you think.
Start by mashing about a cup of strawberries in a saucepan. You don’t need to go overboard—just enough to get some juice flowing. Add these ingredients to the pan:
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that brings the strawberries to life.
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch: This helps thicken the filling so it holds together.
- ½ cup water: Just enough to keep things from sticking.
Cook everything over medium heat, stirring constantly. You’ll notice the mixture starts to bubble and thicken—that’s when the magic happens. Keep stirring until it looks smooth and glossy. This step ensures your pie won’t end up watery or runny.
Once the filling is thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice. This small step adds just the right pop of brightness to balance the sweetness. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes so it’s not piping hot.
Now for the fun part: fold in the rest of your fresh strawberries. The combination of whole berries and that glossy filling is what makes every bite irresistible. Coat the berries evenly, and you’re ready to assemble your pie.
A few tips:
- Don’t skip the constant stirring—it prevents lumps and ensures an even texture.
- If your strawberries are extra juicy, you can add a pinch more cornstarch.
- Let the filling cool completely before pouring it into your crust.
Assembling Your Strawberry Pie
This is the part where everything comes together—the moment your pie starts looking like, well, a pie! Start by spreading the prepared filling evenly into your pre-baked crust. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to make sure it reaches all the edges. You want every slice to be packed with that glossy, sweet filling.
Now it’s time to arrange the fresh strawberries. Here’s where you can get a little creative:
- Pile them high: For a dramatic, bakery-style look, stack the strawberries in a mound at the center.
- Lay them flat: If you prefer a neater, more traditional style, arrange the berries in a single layer, pointed ends up.
No matter how you style it, gently press the strawberries into the filling so they stay in place. The glossy filling acts like glue, holding everything together.
Once the pie is assembled, it’s all about patience. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least 3–4 hours. This step is crucial because it gives the filling time to set properly. If you cut it too early, it’ll taste great, but it could get a bit messy.
When it’s time to serve, add a little extra flair. Adding a dollop of whipped cream on each slice of strawberry pie makes this recipe even better! You can even sprinkle some crushed graham crackers or drizzle chocolate sauce for a fun twist.
The result? A strawberry pie that’s just as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you proud to say, “Yes, I made this!”
Tips for the Best Strawberry Pie
Making a strawberry pie isn’t complicated, but a few small tips can take your pie from good to unforgettable. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:
- Pick the perfect strawberries: Smaller strawberries are often sweeter and less watery, which makes them ideal for pies. Plus, they’re easier to arrange for that picture-perfect look. Always aim for fresh, ripe berries—they’re the star of the show!
- Cool the filling completely: Pouring hot filling into your crust is a recipe for disaster. It can make the crust soggy and ruin the texture of your pie. Let the filling cool until it’s just slightly warm or fully room temperature before assembling.
- Don’t skip the chill time: I get it—waiting is hard. But letting the pie chill for at least 3–4 hours is crucial. This helps the filling set, giving you neat, clean slices instead of a messy heap.
- Try a different crust: While a classic buttery crust is always a winner, why not mix it up? A graham cracker crust adds a sweet, crunchy base, and a chocolate crust gives the pie a rich, indulgent twist. Both pair beautifully with the strawberries.
With a bit of planning and patience, you can make a great strawberry pie. These tips really help you whip up a dessert that is both tasty and pretty. Once you get these basics down, you will be baking strawberry pies like a pro!
Variations to Try
One of the best things about strawberry pie recipes is how easy they are to customize. Whether you want something tangy, creamy, or extra indulgent, there’s a version out there for you. Here are a few fun ideas to mix things up:
- Strawberry and Rhubarb Pie: Add diced rhubarb to the filling for a tart, tangy twist. The combination of sweet strawberries and sharp rhubarb creates a perfectly balanced flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Strawberry Cream Pie: Spread a layer of whipped cream or a cream cheese mixture on the crust before adding the filling. It adds a creamy, dreamy element that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
- Chocolate Strawberry Pie: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top or even add a layer of chocolate ganache beneath the filling. It’s a decadent upgrade for chocolate lovers.
- No-Bake Strawberry Pie: Skip the oven altogether with a graham cracker crust and a gelatin-based filling. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for those hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
Each variation puts a fun twist on things while keeping strawberries in the spotlight. Whether you’re looking for something classic or a fun new twist, there’s a version here that’s sure to impress.
Storing and Serving the Pie
Strawberry pie is one of those desserts that tastes amazing fresh, but with proper storage, you can enjoy it later too. If you’re planning to keep it for a day or two, store it in the refrigerator. Place the pie on a flat surface and loosely cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This keeps it from drying out while still allowing a bit of airflow to maintain its texture. For the best flavor, try to eat it within three days.
If you want to store the pie for longer, freezing is a great option. Start by slicing the pie into individual portions. This makes it easier to grab just one slice without defrosting the entire thing. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Don’t forget to label it with the date! Frozen strawberry pie can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours.
When it’s time to serve, don’t be afraid to add a little extra flair. Whipped cream is a classic, but vanilla ice cream really steps it up! The cool creaminess complements the sweet strawberries perfectly.
Want to try something different? Here are a few fun serving ideas:
- Drizzle slices with chocolate or caramel sauce for a decadent twist.
- Sprinkle crushed graham crackers or toasted almonds over the top for added crunch.
- Serve it with a glass of chilled rosé or sparkling lemonade for a refreshing pairing.
Whether it’s fresh out of the oven or pulled from the freezer, strawberry pie is a dessert that’s always worth savoring. With the right storage and a few serving tricks, you can make every bite feel like a treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This strawberry pie recipe is the perfect mix of easy and impressive. You don’t need to be a professional baker to make something that tastes amazing and looks beautiful. The filling is sweet, but not too sugary, so it doesn’t overpower the fresh strawberry flavor. And that buttery, flaky crust? It ties everything together in the best way possible.
Here’s why this recipe is a keeper:
- Super simple to make: The steps are easy to follow, so you don’t have to stress about getting it right.
- Uses everyday ingredients: No fancy tools or trips to specialty stores—just basics you probably already have.
- Looks like a work of art: The bright red filling and golden crust make this pie a showstopper, even if it’s your first time baking one.
- Works for every occasion: Whether it’s a summer picnic, a birthday party, or just a Tuesday night, this pie always fits the vibe.
One of the best parts? This recipe doesn’t take all day. You can whip it up with minimal effort, but it still feels special. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about serving a homemade pie. Everyone’s eyes light up, and before you know it, they’re asking for seconds (and the recipe).
If you’re a beginner, this is the perfect place to start. If you’re already comfortable in the kitchen, it’s a fun one to add to your go-to list. Either way, you’re going to love how easy and delicious it is to make this strawberry pie.
Classic Strawberry Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter cold and diced
- 4-6 tablespoons ice water
- 5 cups fresh strawberries hulled (1 cup mashed, 4 cups whole or halved)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Combine the flour and salt in a medium-sized bowl.
- Cut in the cold, diced butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the ice water one tablespoon at a time, stirring until the dough comes together but isn’t sticky.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Trim and crimp the edges as desired, then bake the crust at 375°F for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Let the crust cool completely.
- Mash 1 cup of strawberries in a medium saucepan.
- Add granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water to the mashed strawberries, stirring to combine.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Let the mixture cool slightly.
- Arrange the remaining 4 cups of whole or halved strawberries in the cooled pie crust.
- Pour the thickened filling over the fresh strawberries, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Chill the pie in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours or until the filling sets completely.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry pie is a classic dessert that always stays in fashion. It’s simple, sweet, and perfect for so many occasions. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, a special celebration, or just because, this strawberry pie recipe is sure to be a hit. With its buttery crust, glossy filling, and fresh strawberries, every bite is a little taste of joy.
The best part? You don’t need to be an expert baker to make it. The ingredients are straightforward, the steps are easy to follow, and the results are always impressive. Plus, there’s so much room to get creative—try a new crust, add a twist to the filling, or serve it with your favorite toppings.
If you’re looking for even more inspiration, Pinterest is full of ideas for making your strawberry pie unique. From decorating tips to serving suggestions, you can find endless ways to make your pie stand out. Save this recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s always handy when you’re ready to bake.
So, grab some fresh strawberries and give this recipe a try. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or keeping it all for yourself, this pie is guaranteed to bring smiles. Sometimes the simplest desserts are the ones we love the most—and this one is no exception.
