Introduction

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that showcases the vibrant flavor of strawberries, then Simply Strawberry Pie is the perfect choice. This pie combines a buttery crust with a fresh strawberry filling, creating a treat that’s both simple and delicious. It’s ideal for warm weather gatherings or any time you want to indulge in a sweet, fruity dessert.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 1 9-inch pie crust, uncooked
– 1 quart fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon butter

Prep Time

The preparation time for Simply Strawberry Pie is approximately 15 minutes. This includes washing and cutting the strawberries, as well as mixing the filling ingredients.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time is about 10 minutes, with a total time of 25 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields one 9-inch pie, making it perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying at home.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Carefully place the crust in the dish.
3. Trim the excess dough and crimp the edges to your desired design.
4. Use a fork to poke holes in the bottom and sides of the crust to prevent bubbling.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.

Prepare the Strawberry Filling

1. Rinse and hull the strawberries, then slice them in half or quarters, depending on your preference.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, gently stirring, until the mixture is heated through and starts to release juice, about 5 minutes.
4. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until thickened, stirring constantly.
5. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes.

Combine and Chill

1. Pour the strawberry filling into the cooled pie crust, spreading it evenly.
2. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

– Serve the pie with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Storage Recommendations

– The pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap to maintain freshness.

Tips for Best Results

– Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
– Adjust the sugar to taste depending on the sweetness of the strawberries.

Alternative Options

– You can substitute some of the strawberries with other berries such as blueberries or raspberries for variation.
– For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pie crust.

Cook techniques

Making the Pie Crust

To achieve a flaky and tender pie crust, make sure to use cold butter and handle the dough minimally to prevent gluten development.

Preparing the Strawberries

Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Wash and hull them carefully, then slice them to enhance their sweetness and texture.

Thickening the Filling

Use cornstarch as a thickening agent for the strawberry filling. Combine it with sugar before adding to the strawberries to avoid clumping.

Baking the Pie

Bake the pie until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly. This ensures the flavors meld together and the filling reaches the right consistency.

FAQ

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in your pie.

How do I make my pie crust flakier?

Using chilled ingredients and not overworking the dough will help produce a flakier crust.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

You can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as alternatives to cornstarch for thickening the pie filling.

How long will the pie last in the fridge?

The strawberry pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it lightly to prevent it from drying out.

Can I make this pie in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pie a day before serving. Just store it in the refrigerator after it cools completely.

Conclusion

The Simply Strawberry Pie is a delightful and refreshing dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of strawberries. Its flaky crust combined with a luscious filling creates a perfect balance, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a summer treat. With its simple preparation and wholesome ingredients, this pie is sure to impress family and friends alike.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Classic Blueberry Pie

Experience the burst of flavors with a traditional blueberry pie. Just like the strawberry version, it features a flaky crust and a sweet, fruity filling.

Lemon Meringue Pie

For those who enjoy a citrus twist, the lemon meringue pie offers a tangy flavor topped with fluffy meringue, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tart.

Mixed Berry Pie

Combine strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a mixed berry pie that is loaded with vibrant colors and flavors, perfect for berry lovers.

Peach Pie

Savor the taste of summer all year round with a delectable peach pie. The juicy peach filling is both sweet and fragrant, making it a delightful treat.

Chocolate Cream Pie

For a richer option, indulge in a chocolate cream pie. With a silky chocolate filling and whipped cream topping, this pie is perfect for chocolate lovers.

Almond Strawberry Pie

Enhance the strawberry pie by adding almond extract to the filling for a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of strawberries.