Fresh strawberry pie is a timeless dessert that brings together the sweetness of ripe strawberries, the glossy shine of a jelly glaze, and the buttery crunch of pie crust. Inspired by the famous Big Boy’s version, this recipe is straightforward, quick to prepare, and perfect for spring and summer gatherings. Whether you’re baking for a family dinner, a picnic, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this strawberry pie will win everyone over.
Unlike heavy cream-based pies, this one feels light and refreshing while still being indulgent. The natural flavor of fresh strawberries shines through, making it one of the most beloved fruit pies in American homes. Let’s dive into the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, tips for success, and common questions about this dessert.
Ingredients for Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie
Here’s everything you need to make this beautiful pie:
- 1 frozen pie crust (standard 9-inch size)
- 1¼ cups granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1¼ cups water
- 3 tablespoons strawberry jelly (or strawberry jam, if preferred)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced (hulled and cleaned)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Baking the Pie Crust
- Begin by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the frozen pie crust package.
- Bake the crust until golden brown and crisp. This ensures it can hold the filling without becoming soggy.
- Allow the baked crust to cool completely for about 30 minutes before adding the filling.
Preparing the Strawberry Glaze
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, and water.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, whisking frequently to prevent lumps.
- Continue cooking until the mixture thickens into a smooth, glossy consistency. This will act as the glaze that holds the strawberries together.
Adding the Strawberry Jelly
- Once the sugar mixture thickens, remove it from the heat.
- Stir in the strawberry jelly until it fully melts and blends in, giving the glaze its signature vibrant red shine.
- Set the glaze aside to cool slightly. You don’t want it hot when pouring over the berries, as heat can make them too soft.
Assembling the Pie
- Arrange the sliced strawberries inside the cooled pie crust. You can scatter them casually or arrange them neatly in circular layers for a more polished look.
- Pour the cooled glaze mixture evenly over the strawberries, making sure every piece is coated.
- Place the pie in the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least 2–3 hours until set.
Serving the Pie
- Once chilled, slice the pie into wedges and serve as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- This pie is best served cold and enjoyed within 2–3 days for maximum freshness.
Tips for Making the Perfect Strawberry Pie
- Choose ripe but firm strawberries. Overripe berries can turn mushy, while underripe ones won’t deliver enough sweetness.
- Homemade crust option. If you prefer, you can prepare your own buttery pie crust instead of using frozen. Blind-bake it until golden before filling.
- Use cornstarch wisely. Make sure the glaze thickens properly. If it seems runny, cook it a little longer to ensure a stable set.
- Alternative jellies. Strawberry jelly gives the classic flavor, but you can try raspberry or even red currant jelly for a twist.
- Make it ahead. This pie can be made a day in advance, making it a great choice for parties or family gatherings.
- Add whipped topping. A swirl of homemade whipped cream or even vanilla ice cream makes this dessert even more irresistible.
Variations of Strawberry Pie
While Big Boy’s classic version is iconic, there are many fun ways to adapt it:
- Strawberry Cream Pie: Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese or vanilla pudding under the strawberries before pouring on the glaze.
- Mixed Berry Pie: Incorporate blueberries or raspberries along with strawberries for a colorful twist.
- Chocolate Strawberry Pie: Brush the cooled crust with melted chocolate before adding the strawberries. This not only tastes amazing but also prevents sogginess.
- Sugar-Free Option: Use a sugar substitute and sugar-free jelly for a lighter version.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Always store strawberry pie in the refrigerator, loosely covered with plastic wrap or foil.
- Shelf Life: It stays fresh for up to 3 days. After that, the strawberries begin releasing too much juice.
- Freezing: This pie is not recommended for freezing, as strawberries lose texture and become watery when thawed.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Slice)
- Calories: 280
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Sugars: 36 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Protein: 2 g
Note: Values may vary depending on crust type and portion size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh strawberry puree instead of jelly?
Yes, you can. However, jelly provides stability and shine. If using puree, make sure to cook it down with sugar and cornstarch until thick.
Do I need to blind-bake the crust?
Yes. Blind-baking ensures that the crust is fully cooked and crisp before adding the strawberry filling. Otherwise, the crust will turn soggy.
How do I prevent the pie from becoming watery?
The key is cooking the cornstarch mixture until it’s properly thickened. Also, avoid washing the strawberries too far in advance, as excess moisture can seep into the pie.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
It’s not recommended. Frozen strawberries release too much water and lack the firm texture needed for this pie. Fresh strawberries are essential.
Can I make this pie without cornstarch?
Yes, you can substitute with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch. Both work well as natural thickeners.
Final Thoughts
Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie is a dessert that never goes out of style. With its beautiful glossy finish, vibrant berries, and simple preparation, it’s proof that sometimes the best recipes are the simplest ones. Once you try this pie, it’s bound to become a staple in your home during strawberry season.
Whether you serve it plain, with whipped cream, or with a scoop of ice cream, this strawberry pie will bring smiles to the table every single time.