There’s something truly nostalgic about a classic Old Fashioned Strawberry Pie. This delightful dessert is a celebration of fresh, juicy strawberries encased in a beautiful, glossy glaze, all nestled in a perfectly baked pie crust. It’s the quintessential summer treat that brings back memories of picnics, family gatherings, and warm evenings spent outdoors. Growing up, strawberry pie was a staple at our family dinners. My grandmother would often bake this pie with strawberries picked fresh from her garden, and the sweet aroma would fill the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen. The first bite was always a burst of sweetness and freshness that epitomized the essence of summer. This recipe is a homage to those cherished times, offering a straightforward yet delicious way to enjoy one of the season’s best fruits. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this Old Fashioned Strawberry Pie is sure to bring joy to your table.
Ingredients
1 9-inch deep-dish pie crust, baked*
6 cups fresh hulled and halved strawberries, divided
1 cup sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
¾ cup cold water
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional: few drops of red food coloring
Optional, for serving: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
*To bake the pie crust, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your pie dough, fit it into a 9-inch pie dish, trim and flute the edges, and prick the bottom with a fork. Line with parchment paper, fill with pie weights, and bake for 15 minutes. Remove weights and parchment, and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool completely before filling.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Hull and Halve the Strawberries:
Begin by washing the strawberries thoroughly.
Hull the strawberries by removing the green stems and white cores.
Halve the strawberries and measure out 6 cups. Set aside 1 cup of these halved strawberries for mashing.
Step 2: Create the Strawberry Glaze
Mash the Strawberries:
In a small bowl, mash the 1 cup of halved strawberries using a fork or potato masher. Set aside.
Combine Sugar and Cornstarch:
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 3 tablespoons of cornstarch. Mix well to ensure there are no lumps of cornstarch.
Add Water and Salt:
Add ¾ cup of cold water and ¼ teaspoon of salt to the sugar and cornstarch mixture. Stir until well combined.
Stir in Mashed Strawberries:
Add the mashed strawberries to the saucepan. Stir the mixture well to combine.
Cook the Mixture:
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. If you want a more vibrant red color, you can add a few drops of red food coloring at this stage.
Thicken the Glaze:
Continue cooking and stirring the mixture until it becomes thick and clear, which should take about 3 more minutes after it starts boiling.
Cool the Glaze:
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the glaze to cool for about 10 minutes. This will help it set slightly and make it easier to pour over the strawberries.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Arrange the Strawberries:
Arrange the remaining 5 cups of halved strawberries in the baked pie shell. Try to distribute them evenly for a uniform look and texture.
Spoon the Glaze Over Strawberries:
Carefully spoon the cooled glaze over the strawberries in the pie shell, ensuring that each berry is well coated. The glaze will seep down and fill in the gaps between the berries, creating a cohesive pie.
Step 4: Chill the Pie
Refrigerate the Pie:
Place the assembled pie in the refrigerator and let it chill for 1 to 2 hours. This chilling time allows the glaze to set completely, giving the pie a firm, sliceable texture.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish and Serve:
Just before serving, garnish the pie with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired. These additions complement the sweet, tangy flavors of the pie perfectly.
Variations and Substitutions
Crust Options:
For a different twist, try using a graham cracker crust or a shortbread crust instead of a traditional pie crust. Both options add unique flavors and textures to the pie.
Sugar Substitutes:
If you prefer a lower sugar option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. Adjust the quantity according to the sweetness level of the substitute you choose.
Different Berries:
While strawberries are classic, this recipe can be adapted for other berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of various berries for a delightful berry pie.
Topping Variations:
In addition to whipped cream or ice cream, consider topping the pie with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkling of chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This Old Fashioned Strawberry Pie is a testament to the timeless appeal of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create something truly special. The combination of sweet, juicy strawberries and a smooth, glossy glaze in a flaky pie crust is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re making this pie for a family gathering, a summer picnic, or just to treat yourself, it’s sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to everyone who tastes it. The process is straightforward, and the result is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer in every bite. Enjoy making and sharing this classic treat, and create your own cherished memories with this beloved recipe.
