Fresh Strawberry Pie

There’s something irresistibly charming about a Fresh Strawberry Pie that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This vibrant, sweet, and tangy dessert is perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or simply treating yourself to a fresh fruit delight. Made with a flaky single pie crust, a glossy strawberry gelatin filling, and topped with clouds of fresh whipped cream, this pie is a refreshing and beautiful way to enjoy fresh strawberries. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward, quick, and utterly delicious.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Fresh Strawberry Pie stands out because it balances simplicity and flavor perfectly. Using fresh, juicy strawberries combined with a strawberry-flavored gelatin mixture creates a luscious filling that sets beautifully, providing a delightful texture that’s not too runny or too firm. The pie crust adds a buttery, crisp contrast to the soft filling, while the fresh whipped cream topping adds a smooth and creamy finish.

Unlike many pies that require complex steps or hard-to-find ingredients, this recipe uses straightforward pantry staples and fresh fruit to make a dessert that looks stunning and tastes even better. It’s an ideal make-ahead dessert that impresses guests and satisfies sweet cravings without being overly sweet. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on your preferences or the season’s produce.

Ingredients

• 1 single pie crust (click for recipe)
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 (3-ounce) package strawberry-flavored gelatin (like JELL-O)
• 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• Fresh whipping cream for topping

How To Make Fresh Strawberry Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Begin by preparing your single pie crust. You can use a homemade recipe or a store-bought crust for convenience. If making from scratch, roll out the dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim and crimp the edges for a beautiful finish. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling. Bake the crust at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until it turns golden brown. Let it cool completely before filling.

Step 2: Make the Gelatin Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine the water, cornstarch, and granulated sugar. Whisk these ingredients together over medium heat until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble gently. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat once thickened.

Next, add the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder to the hot mixture. Whisk until the gelatin dissolves completely and the mixture is smooth. Let this mixture cool to room temperature but do not let it set.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Place the sliced fresh strawberries evenly into the cooled pie crust. Carefully pour the gelatin mixture over the strawberries, making sure they are all coated and the filling is spread evenly.

Place the assembled pie in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until the gelatin filling is fully set.

Step 4: Add the Whipped Cream Topping

Before serving, whip fresh cream until soft peaks form. You can sweeten the cream slightly with a teaspoon of sugar or vanilla extract if desired. Generously spread or pipe the whipped cream over the set strawberry filling.

Slice, serve, and enjoy the bright flavors and beautiful presentation of your Fresh Strawberry Pie!

Expert Tips

• Use the freshest strawberries for the best flavor and texture — ripe but firm berries work best.
• Make sure your pie crust is fully cooled before adding the gelatin filling to avoid melting or sogginess.
• When thickening the gelatin mixture, stir constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth filling.
• If you prefer a firmer filling, reduce the water by 2 tablespoons to intensify the gelatin set.
• For an extra touch of flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the filling mixture.
• Whip cream just before serving to maintain its light and fluffy texture.

Variations and Customizations

• Mixed Berry Pie: Substitute half the strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a colorful berry medley.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the whipped cream topping for a decadent twist.
• Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free pie crust alternative to make this pie suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding almond extract, orange zest, or a hint of cinnamon to the whipped cream for a unique flavor profile.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted sliced almonds or crushed pistachios on top of the whipped cream for added texture.
• Vegan Option: Use a plant-based pie crust, agar-agar or another vegan gelling agent instead of gelatin, and coconut whipped cream.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Fresh Strawberry Pie tasting its best, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and refrigerate. The pie is best enjoyed within 2-3 days, as the crust may start to soften over time. Avoid freezing this pie since the texture of the gelatin and fresh strawberries can suffer after thawing. Always add whipped cream fresh before serving leftovers to maintain a light and creamy finish.

FAQ

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries are ideal for this pie, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh are unavailable. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to remove excess moisture before assembling the pie, as too much liquid can prevent the gelatin from setting properly.

Is it necessary to bake the pie crust first?

Yes, baking the pie crust beforehand (also called blind baking) ensures a crisp and firm base that won’t become soggy once the gelatin filling is added. A fully baked and cooled crust makes the best foundation for this pie.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pie can be made a day in advance. After assembling, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the filling to set fully. Add the whipped cream topping just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

What can I substitute for strawberry-flavored gelatin?

If you prefer a more natural filling, you can substitute the strawberry-flavored gelatin with unflavored gelatin and sweeten the filling with fresh strawberry puree and sugar. Alternatively, agar-agar can be used as a plant-based gelling agent, but you’ll need to adjust the preparation method according to the package instructions.

Conclusion

Fresh Strawberry Pie is a stunning and delightful dessert that showcases the sweetness of summer strawberries in a luscious, glossy filling paired with a buttery crust and velvety whipped cream. Its simplicity in preparation combined with its eye-catching presentation makes it the perfect dessert for any occasion—whether it’s a casual family meal or a celebratory feast. With a handful of basic ingredients and easy steps, you can create a pie that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a favorite in your dessert rotation!