Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie is a classic American dessert made with a flaky crust, fresh strawberries, and a glossy strawberry glaze. It’s simple, bright, and perfect for spring and summer when strawberries are at their best. This pie is known for its fresh fruit flavor and clean slices.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pie is light, fresh, and not too sweet. It highlights real strawberries and has a beautiful red shine that makes it perfect for parties, holidays, and family dinners. It’s also very easy to make with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
For the pie crust
- 1 9-inch pie crust, baked and cooled (homemade or store-bought)
For the strawberry filling
- 1 quart fresh strawberries, washed and hulled
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup water
- 1 small box (3 oz) strawberry gelatin
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the strawberries
Slice about half of the strawberries in half and keep the rest whole. Set aside. Arrange the strawberries evenly inside the cooled pie crust.
Step 2: Make the glaze
In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick and clear. This takes about 5–7 minutes.
Step 3: Add gelatin
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in strawberry gelatin and lemon juice until fully dissolved and smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the pie
Carefully pour the warm glaze over the strawberries in the pie crust. Use a spoon to gently spread the glaze so all strawberries are coated.
Step 5: Chill
Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
Variations
- Use a graham cracker crust instead of traditional pie crust
- Add a layer of cream cheese spread on the crust before adding strawberries
- Mix sliced and whole strawberries for more texture
- Replace strawberry gelatin with raspberry gelatin for a twist
- Add a small amount of vanilla extract to the glaze
Cooking Notes
- Use ripe but firm strawberries for best texture
- Stir the glaze constantly to avoid lumps
- Let the glaze cool slightly before pouring, but not too thick
- Do not overfill the crust to prevent overflow
- Chill fully before slicing for clean cuts
Serving Suggestions
- Serve cold straight from the refrigerator
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top
- Garnish with extra fresh strawberries
- Pair with iced tea or coffee
- Slice with a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts
Tips
- Dry strawberries well to avoid watery filling
- Use a clear pie dish to check crust doneness
- Make the pie the day before serving
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator
- Best eaten within 2–3 days
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approx.)
- Calories: 260 per slice
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 9g
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best. Frozen strawberries release too much liquid.
Does this pie need baking?
Only the crust is baked. The filling is no-bake.
How long does it last?
Store refrigerated and enjoy within 3 days.
Conclusion
Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie is a timeless dessert that celebrates fresh fruit and simple preparation. With its glossy glaze and juicy strawberries, this pie is always a crowd favorite.