Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of juicy strawberries in a flaky pie crust. This recipe combines the sweetness of strawberries with a tangy strawberry jelly mixture, creating a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 frozen pie crust
- 1 1/4 cup sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 3 tbsp strawberry jelly
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
Directions:
- Bake the frozen pie crust according to the directions on the package. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 30 minutes.
- While the pie crust is cooling, prepare the strawberry jelly mixture. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and water until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for approximately 5 minutes or until it thickens to a desired consistency.
- Whisk in the strawberry jelly until fully incorporated. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set the mixture aside to cool.
- Once the pie crust and strawberry jelly mixture have cooled, arrange the sliced strawberries in the pie crust.
- Pour the strawberry jelly mixture over the strawberries, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Refrigerate the pie for a few hours until the filling is set and firm.
Tips:
- Ensure the pie crust is fully cooled before adding the strawberry filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- For added flavor, consider using fresh, ripe strawberries for the best taste and texture.
- If desired, you can garnish the pie with whipped cream or additional sliced strawberries before serving.
Conclusion:
Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie offers a delightful combination of sweet strawberries and tangy jelly encased in a crisp pie crust. This simple yet flavorful dessert is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or special occasions. Enjoy the burst of fresh strawberry goodness with every bite!
- Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen for this recipe?
Answer: Yes, fresh strawberries can be used instead of frozen ones for this pie. In fact, using fresh strawberries can enhance the overall flavor and texture of the pie. Make sure to wash and slice the strawberries before adding them to the pie crust. Using fresh strawberries can also add a vibrant color and natural sweetness to the dessert. - Can I substitute the strawberry jelly with another type of jelly or preserve?
Answer: While the recipe calls for strawberry jelly, you can certainly experiment with other types of jellies or preserves to suit your taste preferences. Raspberry, blueberry, or even apricot preserves can be delicious alternatives. Just ensure that the flavor complements the sweetness of the strawberries and enhances the overall taste of the pie. Adjust the quantity according to your liking and taste as different jellies may have varying levels of sweetness. - How long does the pie need to refrigerate before it is set?
Answer: The pie should be refrigerated for a few hours, typically around 3 to 4 hours, to allow the filling to set properly. This chilling time ensures that the strawberry jelly mixture firms up and holds the sliced strawberries together within the pie crust. However, if you’re short on time, you can place the pie in the freezer for a shorter period, but be mindful not to freeze it completely as it might affect the texture of the pie. - Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Answer: Yes, you can prepare this pie ahead of time, which makes it a convenient dessert option for gatherings and parties. You can bake the pie crust and prepare the strawberry jelly mixture in advance, then assemble the pie a day before serving. Keep the pie covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to serve it. The flavors of the pie tend to meld together and intensify as it sits in the refrigerator, making it even more delicious the next day. Just be sure to store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. - Can I use a homemade pie crust instead of a frozen one?
Answer: Absolutely! While the recipe suggests using a frozen pie crust for convenience, you can certainly use a homemade pie crust if you prefer. A homemade crust can add a personal touch to the pie and elevate its overall presentation. Simply prepare your favorite pie crust recipe, blind bake it, and follow the same steps for assembling the pie as outlined in the recipe. Homemade pie crusts often have a flakier texture and buttery flavor that can complement the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly. - How can I prevent the pie crust from becoming soggy?
Answer: To prevent the pie crust from becoming soggy, it’s essential to fully bake the crust before adding the strawberry filling. Make sure to follow the instructions on the package for baking the frozen pie crust or bake your homemade crust until it’s golden brown and crisp. Allowing the crust to cool completely before adding the filling also helps maintain its crispness. Additionally, you can brush the bottom of the pie crust with a thin layer of melted chocolate or white chocolate ganache before adding the strawberries to create a barrier between the crust and the filling, which helps keep it crisp.