There’s nothing quite like the sweet, juicy burst of fresh strawberries in a Classic Strawberry Pie. This timeless dessert combines a buttery, flaky crust with a luscious filling that’s both vibrant and refreshing. In under an hour, you can create a showstopping treat that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy night in. The balance of tangy and sweet flavors, paired with the satisfying crunch of the crust, makes every bite irresistible.
Packed with vitamin C and a hint of natural sweetness, this pie is as wholesome as it is indulgent. The glossy, ruby-red filling glistens beautifully, while the tender strawberries melt in your mouth. Whether served warm or chilled, this dessert is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. It’s the kind of pie that brings smiles to the table and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients for Classic Strawberry Pie
- 1 cup sugar (granulated)
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1 cup boiling water (hot water for the gel mixture)
- 3 ounces strawberry Jello (or substitute with any red gelatin flavor)
- 4 cups strawberries, sliced (fresh or frozen, thawed if frozen)
- 1 prepared graham cracker crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup whipped cream (optional, for serving; can use store-bought or homemade)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the gel mixture: In a medium saucepan, mix together the sugar and cornstarch until fully blended. Add boiling water and cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 6-7 minutes).
- Add Jello: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the strawberry Jello until smooth. Let the mixture cool completely to room temperature. Tip: To speed up cooling, place the saucepan in the fridge for a few minutes.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the sliced strawberries into the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading them evenly.
- Add the gel mixture: Once the gel mixture has cooled, pour it over the strawberries in the crust, ensuring even coverage.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4-5 hours, or until the filling is fully set.
- Serve: Slice and serve chilled, topped with whipped cream if desired.
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
While whipped cream is a classic topping for this strawberry pie, you can elevate it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes. For a tangy twist, try a dollop of lemon curd or a light dusting of powdered sugar. If you’re feeling adventurous, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of fresh berry compote can take this dessert to the next level!
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers
To speed up the cooling process for the gel mixture, place the saucepan in a larger bowl filled with ice water and stir occasionally. This will help it cool in just 5-10 minutes instead of waiting for room temperature. You can also prep the strawberries and pie crust the night before, so all you need to do is assemble and chill the pie the next day.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
This pie is best served cold and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent the crust from getting soggy. For a clean slice, dip your knife in hot water before cutting. Serve with a side of extra whipped cream or fresh berries for a beautiful presentation.
Recipe Variations to Try
Swap out the strawberries for other fresh fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of both for a colorful twist. You can also experiment with different Jello flavors, such as raspberry or cherry, to complement the fruit. For a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans on top before serving.
Common Questions Answered
Can I use a homemade crust? Absolutely! A homemade graham cracker crust or even a traditional pastry crust works beautifully. Can I make this pie ahead of time? Yes, it’s perfect for prepping a day in advance—just keep it chilled until ready to serve. Can I use frozen strawberries? Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture, but thawed and drained frozen strawberries can work in a pinch.
Classic Strawberry Pie
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup boiling water
- 3 ounces strawberry Jello
- 4 cups strawberries, sliced
- 1 prepared graham cracker crust
- 1 cup whipped cream
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, mix together the sugar and corn starch; making sure to blend in the corn starch completely. Add boiling water, and cook over medium-high heat until the mixture starts to thicken (about 6-7 minutes).
- Remove the saucepan from heat, add jello mix, and stir until smooth. Let mixture completely cool to room temperature (if you don’t let it cool, it will cook the strawberries. To quicken the cooling time, place in the fridge for a couple of minutes).
- Pour strawberries into prepared pie crust.
- Pour cooled gel mixture over strawberries.
- Refrigerate until set, at least 4-5 hours.
- Serve topped with whipped cream, if desired.