There is nothing quite like the taste of a sun-ripened strawberry bursting with sweetness in every bite, especially when it is transformed into this Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe. This pie is a celebration of fresh strawberries set in a glossy, luscious glaze atop a flaky baked crust. Whether you are welcoming summer guests or craving a light dessert after dinner, this recipe shines with its simplicity and vibrant flavors, making it a timeless classic that will quickly become one of your favorite go-to treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe, you just need a handful of straightforward, fresh ingredients that create harmony in every slice. Each ingredient plays a special role, from the crust’s crisp texture to the glaze’s sweet sheen and the strawberries’ juicy freshness.
- 1 baked 9-inch pie crust: Choose store-bought for convenience or homemade for extra flakiness.
- 1 quart fresh strawberries, hulled and halved: The star ingredient—ripe, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the glaze without overpowering the fruit.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the glaze beautifully to create a shiny finish.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps dissolve the sugar and cornstarch into the perfect consistency for the glaze.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a touch of brightness to balance the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a subtle warmth and depth to the glaze.
- Whipped cream (optional for serving): Adds a light and creamy contrast to the tangy strawberries.
How to Make Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust and Strawberries
Begin by baking your 9-inch pie crust if you’re making it from scratch or simply use a store-bought baked crust. Once cool, spread half of your hulled and halved fresh strawberries evenly across the bottom. This base layer will help anchor the glaze and ensure every slice has a juicy, fruity surprise.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Glaze
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly stir in the water and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll notice the mixture thickening and turning clear, which means it’s ready to be lifted off the heat. This step creates that classic glossy glaze that makes the pie so irresistible.
Step 3: Add the Flavor Boosters
Once the glaze is off the heat, stir in the fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract. These two ingredients brighten the glaze, enhance the strawberry flavor, and keep the sweetness in perfect balance. Don’t skip this step—it’s what gives the pie that extra wow factor.
Step 4: Combine and Chill
Gently fold the remaining strawberries into the warm glaze until they are fully coated. Pour this mixture evenly over the strawberries already arranged in your pie crust. The glaze will seep down a bit, binding everything together in a pretty, shiny layer. Place the pie in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours to let it fully set. This chilling time is crucial for slicing cleanly and tasting the perfect texture combination.
How to Serve Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this strawberry pie simple and elegant is part of its charm. A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds softness and a creamy touch that pairs beautifully with the tartness of the berries. Alternatively, fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar provide a festive, fresh finish that complements the vibrant red strawberries.
Side Dishes
This pie is a star all on its own, but it’s also lovely alongside light summer meals like a crisp green salad or lemony chicken. If you want to round out your dessert spread, serve it next to a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a fruity sorbet to enhance the strawberry themes without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a visually stunning twist on the Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe, try layering strawberries in a spiral or fanning pattern before pouring the glaze over. You can also serve individual mini pies or tartlets using the same recipe, which makes for a charming presentation at parties or picnics. Another fun idea is to add a few sliced almonds or crushed pistachios on top for a delightful nutty crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to two days to retain its freshness and texture. Because of the fresh strawberries and glaze, it’s best enjoyed soon after making it, but properly covered, it will keep its flavor and moistness nicely for a short time.
Freezing
This Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe doesn’t freeze well because the fresh strawberries and glaze can become watery once thawed. For best results, stick to making it fresh or refrigerate and consume within a couple of days.
Reheating
Since this pie is chilled and served cold, reheating isn’t necessary and may negatively affect the texture. Simply slice and serve straight from the refrigerator for the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries in this Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe?
While fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen if fresh are not available. Be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make the pie watery.
Is it necessary to bake the pie crust?
Yes, baking the crust beforehand ensures it stays crisp and doesn’t get soggy from the glaze and strawberries. A fully cooled baked crust is essential for the best texture.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
It’s best to make the glaze fresh and warm just before assembling the pie so it coats the strawberries perfectly and sets correctly during chilling.
How do I know when the glaze has thickened enough?
The glaze is ready when it turns clear and coats the back of a spoon thickly during cooking. Stir constantly to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, glossy finish.
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
Cornstarch is important for thickening the glaze, but you can substitute with an equal amount of arrowroot powder or tapioca starch for a similar result.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe captures the essence of strawberry season with its bright flavors and stunning presentation. It’s a delightful, no-fuss dessert you can make anytime you crave something sweet, fresh, and beautiful. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved classic that you’ll want to share again and again.
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Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie is a delightful no-bake dessert featuring a crisp baked pie crust filled with juicy fresh strawberries coated in a sweet and glossy homemade glaze. Perfect for summer or any time you crave a light, fruity treat, this pie is simple to prepare and can be topped with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Pie Base
- 1 baked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Filling
- 1 quart fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Topping
- Whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberries: Arrange half of the fresh strawberries evenly in the baked 9-inch pie crust and set aside to form the base layer of the pie.
- Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch to eliminate lumps. Stir in the water and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes clear, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. This creates a smooth, glossy glaze that will coat the berries.
- Add Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract to add brightness and depth of flavor to the glaze.
- Combine Glaze and Strawberries: Gently fold the remaining strawberries into the warm glaze, ensuring they are evenly coated without breaking the fruit.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the glazed strawberry mixture evenly over the strawberries already placed in the pie crust, spreading to cover completely.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the assembled pie for at least 3 hours or until the glaze is fully set and firm, allowing flavors to meld.
- Serve: Slice the pie and serve chilled, optionally topped with whipped cream for added richness and creaminess.
Notes
- For an extra glossy finish, brush a small amount of the strawberry glaze over the top of the pie before chilling.
- This pie is best enjoyed the same day it is made to benefit from the freshest strawberry flavor and optimal texture.
- Use ripe, high-quality strawberries for the best taste and natural sweetness.
- You may substitute the baked pie crust with a graham cracker crust if preferred for a different texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
