Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe

Few desserts can rival the vibrant color and juicy sweetness of a Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe bursting with ripe, luscious berries nestled in a tender, baked crust. This pie is a celebration of summer’s best fruit—simple, stunning, and irresistibly fresh. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or craving a light and fruity treat, this pie delivers every time. With a perfect balance of tart lemon juice and just the right amount of sugar and thickener, the strawberries shine through with a glossy finish that makes it almost too beautiful to eat. But trust me, you’ll want to dig right in.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe is a guaranteed hit because it combines the familiar comfort of a homemade pie crust with the bright, juicy flavor of fresh strawberries. The natural sweetness of the berries, enhanced by a touch of sugar and lemon, creates a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, the pie is visually stunning—its vibrant red filling peeking through a golden crust makes it a showstopper on any dessert table. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or a casual picnic, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and hard to resist. The use of Sure-Jell for low-sugar recipes ensures it sets perfectly without overwhelming sweetness, making it a lighter, fresher take on traditional strawberry pie.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 baked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 3 pounds fresh strawberries, gently rinsed, dried, and hulled
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1½ teaspoons Sure-Jell for low-sugar recipes (the pink box)
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Recommended Tools

• 9-inch pie plate: For baking and serving your pie.
• Mixing bowls: To combine strawberries and filling ingredients.
• Whisk: To blend sugar, cornstarch, Sure-Jell, salt, and lemon juice smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise ingredient quantities.
• Spatula or large spoon: For folding strawberries into the filling mixture without bruising.
• Plastic wrap: To cover and chill the pie after assembling.

Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe Made Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare Your Baked Pie Crust

Start with a perfectly baked pie crust—either homemade or store-bought. A flaky, golden crust provides the ideal base for your vibrant strawberry filling. If you’re making your own crust, pre-bake it until it’s lightly golden and completely cool before filling.

Step 2: Prep the Strawberries

Gently rinse 3 pounds of fresh strawberries under cool water. Pat them dry carefully with paper towels to avoid excess moisture, which could make the filling runny. Hull the strawberries by removing the green tops and any damaged spots, then slice them depending on your preferred texture—halves or quarters work beautifully.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine ½ cup sugar, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1½ teaspoons Sure-Jell (for low-sugar recipes), a pinch of salt, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Whisk these dry ingredients together until uniformly blended. The lemon juice will brighten the flavor and help balance the sweetness.

Step 4: Combine Strawberries and Filling

Add the sliced strawberries to the bowl with the dry mix. Gently fold the strawberries into the mixture until they are evenly coated. This gentle mixing ensures the berries remain whole and juicy, keeping the pie’s texture delightful.

Step 5: Fill the Pie Crust

Pour the strawberry mixture into your pre-baked pie crust, spreading it out evenly. The thickening agents will help the pie set as it chills.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Cover your pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This chilling time allows the filling to set fully, resulting in a glossy, sliceable pie that holds together beautifully.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once chilled and set, slice your Fresh Strawberry Pie and serve it as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

• Add a handful of fresh mint leaves to the filling for a refreshing herbal twist.
• Sprinkle a teaspoon of vanilla extract into the filling mixture to deepen the flavor.
• Mix in a handful of fresh blueberries or blackberries for a mixed berry version reminiscent of a Blueberry Pie.
• Top the pie with toasted almond slices for a delightful crunch contrast.
• Swirl in a bit of balsamic reduction before chilling to add a tangy complexity.

What Not to Do

• Do not use frozen strawberries; the extra moisture will make the filling watery.
• Avoid skipping the Sure-Jell or another thickening agent—it’s essential for a set filling.
• Don’t overmix the strawberries; bruising can cause the filling to become mushy.
• Refrain from serving the pie immediately after assembling; it needs ample chilling time to set properly.

Best Ways to Store

Once your Fresh Strawberry Pie is made, it’s best stored in the refrigerator to keep the filling firm and the crust crisp. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or place it inside a pie keeper to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors. Consume within 3 days for the best flavor and texture. Avoid freezing, as the fresh strawberries will lose their texture and release too much liquid upon thawing.

Questions People Ask

Can I make this pie without Sure-Jell?

Sure-Jell helps the filling set with less sugar, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with a combination of cornstarch and regular pectin. However, be cautious with amounts as it may affect texture and sweetness. Using just cornstarch works too, but the filling might be less firm.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Pre-baking the crust (blind baking) is key to avoiding sogginess. Also, ensure the strawberries are well drained and dry before mixing with the filling ingredients. Chilling the pie thoroughly before serving helps the crust stay crisp longer.

Can I use a graham cracker crust instead?

While a graham cracker crust adds a lovely flavor, it’s less sturdy for juicy fillings like fresh strawberry pie. If you prefer it, keep the pie chilled and consume it soon after assembling to prevent sogginess.

What’s the best way to hull strawberries quickly?

A handy trick is to use a small paring knife or a specialized strawberry huller. Insert it at an angle beneath the green cap and twist gently to remove the hull without wasting berry flesh.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Fruit Salsa With Cinnamon Chips – a fun, fresh fruit dessert with a cinnamon twist.
• Cherry Pie – packed with antioxidants and perfect for summer gatherings.
• Homemade granola clusters with honey and nuts – a crunchy, nutritious snack to pair with your pie.
• Greek yogurt with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey – a light and protein-rich dessert option.

Bring It to the Table

Serving a Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe brings a burst of color and flavor to any occasion. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream to complement the natural sweetness of the berries. For a casual summer meal, try pairing it with grilled chicken or a crisp green salad to balance the sweetness. This pie is not just a dessert but a centerpiece that invites smiles and second helpings. If you’re a fan of fruit pies, you might also love the bright tartness of a Cherry Pie that offers a different but equally delightful experience.

Fresh Strawberry Pie is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of fresh fruit, simple ingredients, and the joy of homemade desserts. Each bite tastes like sunshine and brings the essence of summer right to your table.

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