As I prepared to pull my Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie from the oven, the mingling scent of warm strawberries and buttery crust enveloped my kitchen like a comforting hug. This recipe is not only a delightful way to showcase fresh strawberries but also offers the perfect homemade dessert that can brighten any gathering. Baking this pie is a delightful experience, with its quick prep time and the thrill of creating a rustic masterpiece from scratch. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just beginning your culinary journey, the joy of watching the strawberries bubble and the crust turn golden is unmatched. Ready to bite into a slice of summer, topped with a dollop of whipped cream? Let’s dive into this recipe that promises to bring a slice of sunshine to your table!
Why is this pie so special?
Rustic Charm: This Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie captures the essence of homemade goodness, making it a standout dessert for any occasion.
Fresh Flavor: Using ripe strawberries ensures each slice bursts with juicy, sweet goodness that truly reflects summer.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can enjoy the satisfaction of creating a pie from scratch.
Versatile Delight: Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or chilled with whipped cream—perfect for any dessert lover!
Crowd Pleaser: Its inviting aroma and beautiful presentation are sure to impress guests at gatherings or family dinners.
Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
• All-purpose flour – This forms the backbone of your pastry; sift it for a lighter crust.
• Granulated sugar – Adds just a hint of sweetness to the crust.
• Salt – Enhances flavor, balancing the sweetness of the pie.
• Unsalted butter – Chilled and cubed, it creates the rich, flaky texture.
• Ice water – Helps bind the dough without melting the butter.
For the Strawberry Filling
• Fresh strawberries – Hulling and halving these vibrant fruits ensures a fresh, sweet burst in every bite.
• Granulated sugar – Adjust this based on your strawberries’ ripeness for optimal sweetness.
• Corn starch – Acts as a thickening agent, giving the filling a perfect consistency.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice – Brightens the filling, enhancing the strawberry flavor.
• Vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the overall taste.
• Unsalted butter – Mixed in small pieces over the filling for added richness.
For the Egg Wash and Topping
• Egg – Beaten, it provides a shiny, golden crust when brushed on before baking.
• Turbinado sugar – Optional, but it gives a delightful crunch and sweetness to the top of the pie.
This Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie combines the love for homemade desserts with simple, fresh ingredients, ensuring a delightful treat that can’t be beaten!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add 1 cup of chilled, cubed unsalted butter to the mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until it resembles coarse crumbs, approximately 5-7 minutes, ensuring the butter remains cold for a flaky crust.
Step 2: Form the Dough
Gradually add 6-8 tablespoons of ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork. Continue this process until the dough begins to hold together, about 2-3 minutes. Once formed, divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Step 3: Make the Strawberry Filling
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of hulled and halved fresh strawberries, ¾ cup of sugar, 3 tablespoons of corn starch, 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir gently for about 2 minutes until all strawberries are evenly coated and the mixture is well combined.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
After the dough has chilled, remove one disc from the refrigerator. On a floured surface, roll out the dough until it's large enough to fit your pie pan, about ¼ inch thick. Carefully transfer the rolled dough to the pie pan, gently pressing into the bottom and sides without stretching the dough, ensuring it fits the pan perfectly.
Step 5: Fill the Pie Crust
Pour the strawberry filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the mixture with small pieces of 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to enrich the filling as it bakes. This adds a delightful richness, enhancing the overall flavor of your Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie.
Step 6: Top the Pie
Roll out the second disc of dough on a floured surface to match the size of your pie. Lay it over the filled pie, carefully trimming any excess dough. Crimp the edges to seal, ensuring no filling escapes during baking. Then, cut slits into the top of the pie for steam ventilation and a rustic finish.
Step 7: Prepare for Baking
Brush the top crust with a beaten egg to achieve a nice golden color as it bakes. Optionally, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of turbinado sugar over the crust for an added touch of sweetness and crunch. This step elevates your Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie, giving it that irresistible appeal.
Step 8: Bake the Pie
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the pie is done when the crust turns golden brown and the filling is bubbling, which adds a beautiful color contrast to the dessert.
Step 9: Cool the Pie
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before serving. This cooling time allows the filling to set properly, making for easier slices and a more enjoyable Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie experience when you’re ready to serve!
How to Store and Freeze Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie
Room Temperature: Let your pie cool completely before covering it loosely with aluminum foil; it can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Fridge: To keep your Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie fresh longer, cover it with plastic wrap or a pie dome. It will stay delicious in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezer: If you want to freeze your pie, ensure it has cooled thoroughly. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen pie in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes to bring back its warmth and crispy crust.
Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie Customizations
Feel free to get creative and make this Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie your own with these delicious variations!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a perfect, crumbly crust.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for the pie crust and filling.
- Berry Mix: Swap out some strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a delightful mixed berry pie.
- Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, aromatic twist that warms the soul.
- Lemon Zest: Incorporate the zest of a lemon into the filling for an extra burst of citrus flavor that pairs wonderfully with strawberries.
The beauty of this pie lies in its versatility. You can make it a reflection of your personal taste and dietary needs. So don’t shy away from experimenting! You could try variations like a spicy jalapeño sauce for an unexpected kick or even complement it with some of that delectable vanilla ice cream to enhance the experience. Each twist adds a bit of your story to this lovely Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie!
Expert Tips for Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie
Chill the Butter: Use cold butter right from the fridge; this ensures a flaky pie crust, a key aspect of your Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie.
Perfectly Sweet Berries: Adjust the sugar in your filling based on the ripeness of your strawberries; underestimating could lead to a bland pie.
Avoid Soggy Bottom: Pre-bake your crust for about 10 minutes with pie weights to keep it crisp before adding the filling.
Egg Wash for Shine: Don’t skip the egg wash! It gives your crust that gorgeous golden color, enhancing the appeal of your Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie.
Cooling Time Matters: Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to ensure the filling sets perfectly, making for beautiful, defined slices.
What to Serve with Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie
As the warm, inviting aroma of the pie fills your home, imagine pairing this delightful dessert with some complementary flavors and textures.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, juicy filling, creating a classic dessert experience.
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Fresh Whipped Cream: A light, airy topping adds a delightful contrast, enhancing the pie's rustic charm while balancing out its sweetness.
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Minted Strawberries: Toss fresh strawberries with a hint of mint for a fresh garnish, adding a burst of flavor that brightens each bite.
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Cheddar Cheese: A slice of sharp cheddar cheese can surprisingly enrich the pie’s sweetness, showcasing that perfect balance of sweet and savory.
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Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade provides a zesty, citrusy counterpoint, cutting through the richness of the pie.
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Sparkling Wine: Celebrate with a glass of bubbly, whose effervescent nature perfectly complements the pie's sweet warmth and festive vibe.
Indulging in these pairings will elevate your pie into a memorable dessert moment, leaving everyone at the table savoring each delightful bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pies are perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, allowing for convenient meal prep! You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days in advance; simply keep the wrapped discs in the refrigerator. The strawberry filling can also be made up to 24 hours ahead; just store it in an airtight container to maintain its fresh flavor. When you're ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough, fill it with your prepared strawberry mixture, then follow the remaining steps in the recipe. This way, you’ll achieve that delicious, homemade taste with minimal effort when it’s time to serve!
Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best strawberries for my pie?
Absolutely! Look for fresh, ripe strawberries that are bright red and fragrant. Avoid any with dark spots or signs of bruising, as they won’t be as flavorful. For the sweetest filling, opt for berries that feel slightly soft to the touch—indicating ripeness!
What’s the best way to store leftover pie?
Very good question! To keep your Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie fresh, let it cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or a pie dome. It will stay delicious in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you prefer, you can also store it at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze my pie, and if so, how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze it! After the pie has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Your Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
What should I do if my pie crust isn’t flaky?
No worries! If your crust doesn’t turn out flaky, it could be that the butter wasn’t cold enough or it was overmixed. For best results next time, chill the butter beforehand and combine until just crumbly—this will help you achieve that perfect flaky texture for your pie crust!
Are there any dietary considerations I need to keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re considering dietary needs, keep in mind that this recipe contains gluten from the all-purpose flour and dairy from the butter. For gluten-free options, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. If allergies are a concern, ensure you replace butter with a dairy-free alternative, and adjust for any other personal dietary preferences you may have.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Certainly! While fresh strawberries are ideal for flavor, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before adding them to your filling mixture. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust the sugar based on their sweetness.
Irresistibly Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie Delight
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Pie Pan
- Pastry Cutter
- Rolling Pin
- wire rack
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- 2.5 cups All-purpose flour Sift for a lighter crust.
- 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar Adds sweetness to the crust.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor.
- 1 cup Unsalted butter Chilled and cubed.
- 6-8 tablespoons Ice water Helps bind the dough.
For the Strawberry Filling
- 4 cups Fresh strawberries Hulled and halved.
- 0.75 cups Granulated sugar Adjust based on ripeness.
- 3 tablespoons Corn starch Thickens the filling.
- 1 tablespoon Freshly squeezed lemon juice Enhances flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Adds warmth.
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter Dot over the filling.
For the Egg Wash and Topping
- 1 large Egg Beaten for wash.
- 1 tablespoon Turbinado sugar Optional for crunch.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add 1 cup of chilled, cubed unsalted butter and blend until it resembles coarse crumbs, about 5-7 minutes.
- Gradually add 6-8 tablespoons of ice water, mixing until the dough holds together. Form into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, combine 4 cups of hulled and halved fresh strawberries, ¾ cup of sugar, 3 tablespoons of corn starch, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir gently for about 2 minutes.
- Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to fit the pie pan, about ¼ inch thick. Transfer to the pie pan and press into shape.
- Pour the strawberry filling into the prepared crust and dot with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
- Roll out the second disc of dough, cover the filling, and seal the edges. Cut slits for steam ventilation.
- Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and optional turbinado sugar.
- Bake on a baking sheet for 45-55 minutes until golden brown and filling bubbles.
- Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before serving.
