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Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get into how to make Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie at home! This recipe is simple, easy to follow, and takes about 30 minutes to prepare (with a little cooling time). Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Start by preparing your pie crust. If you’re using a store-bought crust, simply bake it according to the package instructions and allow it to cool completely. If you prefer to make your own, a basic pie crust recipe works wonderfully for this pie. Just be sure to let the crust cool completely before filling it with the strawberries and glaze.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Filling
Next, in a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, lemon juice, and water. Stir in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to create a smooth mixture. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat.
Let the mixture cool slightly before gently folding in the fresh, hulled, and halved strawberries. Toss the strawberries gently so they are evenly coated in the sugar-cornstarch mixture. This will create a thick, sweet filling that will hold its shape when set in the crust.
Step 3: Fill the Pie Crust
Once your strawberry mixture is ready, pour it carefully into the cooled pie crust. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the strawberries evenly in the pie, making sure the fruit is well-distributed. Allow the filling to settle and fill in any gaps.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine water, sugar, and cornstarch. Heat over medium heat while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes clear. Once thickened, remove from the heat and stir in vanilla extract, if desired.
This glaze will add a shiny, beautiful finish to your pie, giving it that glossy, store-bought look and extra sweetness.
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Once the glaze is ready, gently spoon it over the strawberries in the pie crust. Make sure the glaze coats the strawberries evenly, giving them a beautiful shine and helping the fruit stay in place.
Step 6: Chill the Pie
Refrigerate the pie for at least 2-3 hours, or until it’s fully set. The chilling time allows the filling and glaze to firm up, ensuring that your slices will hold together when served.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
After the pie has set, slice it into wedges and serve! You can garnish the pie with fresh whipped cream or a dollop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.
Why This Fresh Strawberry Pie Is a Must-Try
- Made with Fresh, In-Season Strawberries: The key to this pie’s outstanding flavor is using the freshest, ripest strawberries. This is a great way to celebrate strawberry season and enjoy the fruit at its peak.
- No-Bake Convenience: The simplicity of this no-bake recipe makes it perfect for warm weather when you don’t want to turn on the oven. It’s an easy and quick dessert option for busy days.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or a potluck, Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie is guaranteed to be a hit. Its vibrant color and refreshing taste make it a dessert everyone will love.
- Perfectly Balanced: The balance of sweetness from the fresh strawberries and glaze, paired with the slight tang of lemon, creates a well-rounded flavor profile that isn’t too heavy. It’s light and refreshing, making it ideal for any occasion.
- A Beautiful Dessert: The glossy finish from the glaze and the bright red strawberries make this pie not only delicious but visually stunning. It’s the kind of dessert that will make your guests’ mouths water before they even take a bite.
Tips for the Perfect Fresh Strawberry Pie
- Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries: The best strawberry pies are made with the freshest fruit. Be sure to pick strawberries that are ripe, sweet, and free of blemishes for the best flavor.
- Chill for Longer if You Can: While 2-3 hours of chilling time is the minimum, allowing the pie to chill overnight will result in an even firmer texture and make the pie easier to slice.
- Don’t Skip the Glaze: The glaze helps keep the strawberries in place and gives the pie a glossy, professional look. It also enhances the sweetness and gives the pie a lovely finish.
- Try Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: While the pie is delicious on its own, serving it with a side of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can make it even more indulgent.
Conclusion: A Sweet, Refreshing Classic
Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie is a delicious, easy-to-make dessert that brings together the best flavors of summer in one beautiful pie. With its buttery crust, sweet strawberry filling, and glossy glaze, this pie is the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer barbecue or bringing it to a holiday meal, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab some fresh strawberries and make this delightful pie today—your taste buds will thank you!
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