“Big Boys Fresh Strawberry Pie” is a delectable dessert that begins with a flaky, buttery crust, baked to a golden perfection, offering a crisp and tender foundation. The highlight of the pie is the luscious, ripe strawberries, each hand-selected for their vibrant red color and juicy sweetness. These strawberries are left whole or sliced, depending on their size, and artfully arranged to create a stunning, ruby-red mosaic atop the crust.
The strawberries are then glazed with a glossy, sweet syrup, which is carefully prepared to enhance, not overpower, the natural flavor of the fruit. This syrup has a slight hint of lemon, adding a subtle zing that balances the sweetness. The pie is often chilled to set the glaze, which holds the strawberries in place and gives the pie a refreshing coolness.
To serve, each slice is often garnished with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, which is light and airy, with a hint of vanilla. The cream complements the strawberries, adding a creamy texture and a touch of richness. Some variations of the recipe include a layer of cream cheese or custard beneath the strawberries, adding a smooth, tangy layer that contrasts delightfully with the sweet fruit.
The overall experience of eating Big Boys Fresh Strawberry Pie is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors – the crisp crust, the soft, juicy berries, the sweet glaze, and the rich cream – creating a dessert that’s both visually appealing and irresistibly delicious. It’s a summer staple, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a decadent treat after a family meal.
Ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or use your favorite homemade crust recipe)
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Red food coloring (optional, for a more vibrant color)
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
- If using a pre-made pie crust, follow the package instructions for blind baking or baking the crust until golden brown. If using a homemade crust, prepare and bake it according to your recipe.
- Prepare the Strawberry Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and cornstarch. Gradually add the water while whisking to create a smooth mixture.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes clear.
- Add Lemon Juice and Food Coloring:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice and a few drops of red food coloring, if using. The color should be a vibrant red.
- Combine with Strawberries:
- Gently fold the halved strawberries into the cooked filling mixture until they are well coated.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Pour the strawberry filling into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Chill:
- Place the pie in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2-3 hours, or until the filling is set and the pie is cooled.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:
- In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Serve:
- Just before serving, spread the whipped cream over the top of the strawberry filling. You can pipe the whipped cream for a decorative touch.
- Slice and serve the Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie.
This fresh strawberry pie is a delightful treat that showcases the natural sweetness of strawberries. With its flaky crust, luscious strawberry filling, and a dollop of whipped cream, it’s a perfect dessert for any occasion. Enjoy the burst of summer flavors in every bite!