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Growing up in the bustling city of Chicago, my kitchen was always a hub of activity, filled with the delightful chaos of family gatherings and the comforting aroma of homemade dishes. One of my fondest memories is of my babcia teaching me how to make her famous strawberry pie. With its flaky crust and sweet, juicy filling, it was a staple at every family gathering, from summer picnics to holiday feasts. The recipe has been passed down through generations, and while I’ve added my own little twists, the essence of my babcia’s love remains in every bite.
This strawberry pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a slice of my heritage, a blend of Polish tradition and American comfort. The vibrant red of the strawberries, the golden crust, and the hint of lemon zest all come together to create a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. It’s a dish that brings my family together, reminding us of our roots and the warmth of our shared history.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Pie Recipe
This strawberry pie is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. It’s incredibly easy to make, with a straightforward recipe that even beginners can master. The pie is naturally sweet, thanks to the ripe strawberries, and it has a delightful balance of tartness from the lemon juice. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a sweet treat.
Plus, it’s a versatile recipe. You can easily adapt it to suit your dietary needs. Looking for a gluten-free option? Swap the regular flour for almond or coconut flour. Want to reduce the sugar content? Use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. The possibilities are endless, making this pie a favorite for everyone.
Ingredients
- 1 9-inch pie crust, homemade or store-bought
- 5 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a homemade pie crust, roll it out and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Gently toss until the strawberries are evenly coated.
- Pour the strawberry mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
- If you have a top crust, roll it out and place it over the filling. Trim the edges and crimp to seal. If not, you can create a lattice crust or leave it open-faced.
- Brush the top crust with the beaten egg to give it a beautiful golden color when baked.
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the filling set properly.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. If strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen ones, but be sure to thaw and drain them first.
- Don’t skip the cooling time. This is crucial for the filling to thicken and set, ensuring clean, beautiful slices.
- If your crust edges are browning too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
- Experiment with different crust designs, like a lattice or cut-out shapes, to add a personal touch to your pie.
When I make this recipe, I always reach for my trusty Silicone Utensils Set to gently mix the strawberries without crushing them. My go-to tool for slicing the strawberries is the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife, which makes prep work a breeze. And for that perfectly flaky crust, the 4.2 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven is perfect for blind baking the crust before adding the filling. These tools make the process smoother and more enjoyable, letting me focus on the joy of baking.
Variations and Substitutions
This strawberry pie is a canvas for creativity. Here are some variations to try:
- Mixed Berry Pie: Add blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry delight.
- Chocolate Strawberry Pie: Drizzle melted chocolate over the filling before adding the top crust.
- Nutty Crust: Add crushed nuts like almonds or pecans to the crust for extra texture and flavor.
- Vegan Option: Use a vegan pie crust and substitute the egg wash with almond milk.
Serving Suggestions
This strawberry pie is best enjoyed with loved ones, gathered around the table. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a chilled glass of sparkling wine for a delightful contrast. For a complete meal, serve it after a light summer salad or a hearty roast chicken dinner.
FAQs
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before serving.
How do I store leftover pie?
Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pie for up to 2 months.
Why is my filling runny?
If your filling is runny, it might be due to insufficient cornstarch or not allowing the pie to cool completely. Make sure to measure the cornstarch accurately and give the pie enough time to set.
Final Thoughts
Making this strawberry pie is more than just a culinary exercise; it’s a journey through my family’s history and a celebration of the simple joys of life. Each slice is a reminder of my babcia’s kitchen, filled with laughter, love, and the irresistible aroma of freshly baked pie. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. Don’t forget to share your creations and spread the love with those around you.
👉 I hope you loved making this Strawberry Pie—it’s a sweet, nostalgic treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. If you’re in the mood for more delicious desserts, check out these recipes: Chocolate Chip Cookies, Lemon Bars, and Banana Bread. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group — and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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The Best Strawberry Pie
A nostalgic strawberry pie recipe inspired by Dana’s Polish-American roots, featuring a flaky crust and sweet, juicy filling.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan.
- In a bowl, mix strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt.
- Pour mixture into the crust. Add top crust if desired.
- Brush with beaten egg. Bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Cool for 2 hours before serving with whipped cream or ice cream.