Baked Strawberry Pie Recipe: Easy and Delicious!

There's something magical about a well-made pie, especially when it involves fresh, juicy strawberries encased in a buttery, flaky crust. Today, we dive into a simple yet delicious recipe for Baked Strawberry Pie. This dessert not only captivates with its vibrant color but also with its irresistible flavor, making it a perfect treat for any occasion from family dinners to summer picnics. Let's walk through how you can make this delectable dish at home.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup cold water

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 5 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• A pinch of salt

For the Glaze (optional):

• 1 tablespoon apricot or strawberry preserves
• 1 teaspoon water

Preparing the Pie Crust

Begin by making the pie crust, as it needs time to rest:

1. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Cut in the butter: Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add water: Gradually add cold water, stirring until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
4. Form dough: Gather the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.

Making the Strawberry Filling

While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling:

1. Mix strawberries and sugar: In a large bowl, combine strawberries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to macerate.
2. Pre-cook the filling: Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. This step ensures that the pie filling isn't too runny after baking. Allow it to cool to room temperature.

Assembling the Pie

Now that your components are ready:

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the dough: Roll the chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, gently press it into the dish, and trim the excess. Crimp or flute the edges for a decorative finish.
3. Fill the pie: Pour the cooled strawberry filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
4. Optional lattice top: If you wish to create a lattice top, roll out another portion of the dough and cut it into strips. Weave these over the filling. Alternatively, you can use a full top crust with vents cut into it.
5. Bake: Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 45 to 55 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.

Final Touches

• Glaze: If using a glaze, mix the preserves with water and brush it over the warm pie for added shine and flavor.
• Cool: Allow the pie to cool completely. This step is crucial as it helps the filling to set.

⭐️ Note: While you can serve the pie warm, it slices better if allowed to cool for a few hours or overnight.

In creating this delicious Baked Strawberry Pie, you've not only indulged in a delightful dessert but also embraced the joy of baking. The satisfaction of a homemade pie, especially one filled with the summer's freshest strawberries, is truly unparalleled. From the first bite, you're met with the tender, buttery crust giving way to a sweet, tangy filling that encapsulates the essence of strawberries at their peak.

Remember, baking is as much about the process as it is about the result. Enjoy the aromas filling your kitchen, the process of layering flavors, and the final presentation. Whether you're new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers the opportunity to practice and perfect your skills, leaving room for personal touches like experimenting with different fruit combinations or tweaking the crust recipe to suit your taste.

Lastly, this pie isn't just food; it's a moment, a celebration. It's perfect for special occasions or just to savor the simple pleasure of a well-made dessert. So next time strawberries are in season, or you have a craving for something both fresh and comforting, consider baking this Strawberry Pie. Your efforts will surely be rewarded with smiles and seconds.

How can I prevent a soggy bottom crust?

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Pre-cooking the filling helps, as does ensuring the oven is properly preheated. You can also blind bake the crust for a few minutes before adding the filling.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

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Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but they should be thawed first and possibly drained to avoid excess moisture.

How long does Strawberry Pie keep?

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Stored in the refrigerator, Strawberry Pie can last up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap.

What can I do if my pie filling doesn’t set?

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If the pie filling does not set properly, you might not have cooked the cornstarch and strawberries long enough or used enough cornstarch. Chill it for longer or cook the filling a bit longer next time.