Description
Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie is a classic dessert that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This delightful pie combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a luscious jelly glaze, all nestled in a flaky, golden crust. The recipe is straightforward, making it a perfect choice for both novice bakers and experienced pastry chefs looking to add a refreshing treat to their dessert repertoire. Here’s how you can recreate this beloved pie in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 frozen pie crust: Serves as the base for your pie, offering a crispy texture.
- 1 1/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the jelly mixture that will coat the strawberries.
- 3 tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the jelly mixture, ensuring it sets properly.
- 1 1/4 cups water: The liquid component needed to create the jelly.
- 3 tbsp strawberry jelly: Enhances the strawberry flavor and adds a beautiful sheen.
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced: The star of the pie, providing fresh, juicy bursts of flavor.
Instructions
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Prep the Pie Crust: Begin by baking the frozen pie crust according to the package’s instructions. This usually involves preheating your oven, placing the crust on a baking sheet, and baking until golden brown. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 30 minutes. A properly cooled crust is crucial as it prevents the jelly mixture from making it soggy.
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Make the Jelly Mixture: While the crust is cooling, prepare the jelly mixture. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, and water. Whisk these ingredients together over medium heat. The key is to keep whisking to prevent any lumps from forming as the mixture heats. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened to a jelly-like consistency. Then, whisk in the strawberry jelly until it’s fully integrated and smooth. Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool. This step infuses the jelly with a deep strawberry flavor and ensures it will solidify correctly in the fridge.
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Assemble the Pie: With your cooled pie crust ready, arrange the sliced strawberries inside it, covering the bottom entirely. For an extra touch of elegance, you can arrange the slices in concentric circles or any pattern you like. Once the strawberries are in place, gently pour the cooled jelly mixture over them, making sure to cover all the strawberries evenly. The jelly acts as a glaze, sealing the strawberries in place and giving the pie a glossy, appetizing finish.
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Chill and Set: Transfer the pie to the refrigerator and let it chill for a few hours. This cooling period allows the jelly mixture to set, resulting in a firm filling that slices beautifully. The pie is ready to serve once the filling is no longer liquid and holds its shape when cut.
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Serving Suggestions:
Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie is best enjoyed chilled, making it a refreshing dessert option for warm weather days. Serve it as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. It’s perfect for picnics, summer gatherings, or simply as a delightful finish to any meal.
Notes
Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, anyone can bring this classic pie to life. Whether you’re reminiscing about visits to Big Boy restaurants or simply in the mood for a delicious strawberry dessert, this pie is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
