Prepare to revolutionize your dessert game with America's Test Kitchen's Fresh Strawberry Pie - a mouthwatering masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with pure delight! This isn't just another pie recipe; it's a culinary work of art that transforms simple, fresh strawberries into a spectacular dessert that looks like it came straight from a professional bakery. Whether you're looking to impress your guests or treat yourself to a slice of summer heaven, this recipe promises to deliver an explosion of fresh, vibrant strawberry flavor in every single bite.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pre-baked pie crust
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Wash and hull the fresh strawberries, carefully removing the green tops. Select 1 pound of the most visually perfect berries and slice them in half lengthwise.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt until well combined and no lumps remain.
- Gradually add water to the dry ingredients, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the sugar-cornstarch mixture, stirring continuously, until it thickens and becomes translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. The mixture should coat the back of a spoon and have a glossy appearance.
- Remove the thickened mixture from heat and stir in lemon juice and butter until fully incorporated. Allow the glaze to cool slightly for about 5-7 minutes.
- Take the pre-baked pie crust and arrange the halved strawberries in a decorative, overlapping pattern across the entire surface of the crust.
- Carefully pour the slightly cooled glaze over the arranged strawberries, ensuring even coverage and allowing the glaze to seep between the berry layers.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 2-3 hours to allow the filling to set completely and develop a firm, glossy texture.
- Before serving, let the pie sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften the glaze slightly. Slice and serve chilled.
Tips
- Choose the Freshest Strawberries: Select ripe, bright red strawberries at the peak of their season for the most intense flavor.
- Prevent a Soggy Crust: Pre-baking your pie crust ensures a crisp bottom that won't become mushy from the strawberry filling.
- Glaze Technique: When making the glaze, stir continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, glossy consistency.
- Arrangement Matters: When placing strawberries in the crust, create an overlapping pattern for both visual appeal and maximum berry coverage.
- Chilling is Key: Allow the pie to set in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours to achieve the perfect texture and help the glaze set properly.
- Serving Tip: Let the pie sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to slightly soften the glaze and enhance flavor.
- Storage: This pie is best consumed within 1-2 days and should be stored covered in the refrigerator to maintain its fresh taste and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
