If you’re looking for a dessert that screams summertime in every bite, then you’ve come to the right place. This Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe is hands-down one of my favorite go-to treats when strawberries are at their peak. Light, sweet, and bursting with fresh fruit flavor, it’s so simple to whip up, but it always feels like a special occasion. Stick with me—I promise you’ll want to make this pie your new staple for backyard barbecues, family dinners, or whenever a little sweet indulgence calls your name.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of them in your pantry or fridge, and fresh strawberries are the star—no fancy stuff needed.
- Fast Prep & Cook Time: From start to fridge, this pie comes together in under an hour, giving plenty of time to chill and set without extra fuss.
- Light & Refreshing: Perfect for hot days when you want something sweet but not heavy or overly rich.
- Makes a Great Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings, it’s ideal for sharing with friends and family, and it always disappears fast!
Ingredients & Why They Work
Every ingredient here has a role to play in making this strawberry pie so easy and delicious. Whether it’s the jello adding that perfect strawberry burst or the cornstarch giving the filling a luscious set, you’ll find each component works in harmony for the best result.
- 9-inch pie crust: I often grab a pre-made one to save time, but homemade crust works beautifully if you want that extra touch. Baking it ahead ensures it stays crisp under the juicy filling.
- Cornstarch: This is your thickening hero—it transforms the watery filling into a nice gel without fuss or cloudiness.
- Sugar: Balances the tartness of fresh strawberries and enhances their natural sweetness.
- Water: A simple base for dissolving the cornstarch and sugar, letting the jello do the magic of flavor infusion.
- Strawberry Jello: Besides flavor, it helps the filling set beautifully and gives the pie that classic, glossy finish.
- Fresh strawberries: The star ingredient! Slice them up so every slice has juicy, fresh bursts of berry happiness.
- Fresh whipping cream: Not just for looks—it adds a creamy, dreamy finish that pairs perfectly with the sweet pie.
Make It Your Way
One of the best parts about this Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe is how flexible it is—feel free to make it your own! I love tweaking little things depending on the season or the occasion, and you might find something you adore, too.
- Variation: I’ve tried swapping strawberry jello for raspberry or cherry for a different berry twist—and it turns out wonderfully without missing a beat.
- Make it Vegan: If you want to skip the jello, use agar-agar or a vegan gelatin substitute; just watch the setting times carefully.
- Crust Swap: Instead of a traditional pie crust, I once made this with a graham cracker crust and it added a lovely crunch and extra sweetness.
- Extra Freshness: Adding a few mint leaves on top or a squeeze of lemon juice into the filling can really brighten up the flavors.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prep & Bake the Pie Crust
Start by baking your pie crust according to the package instructions. I like to line the crust with aluminum foil and fill it with pie weights or dried beans to keep the crust from puffing up—it helps it stay perfectly flat. Bake for about 8 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes until it’s golden and crisp. This step is crucial because a soggy bottom is the last thing you want with juicy berries!
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Filling
In a small saucepan, whisk together cornstarch, sugar, and water until smooth. Heat over medium, stirring constantly until it comes to a boil, then keep whisking for 2 more minutes until thickened nicely. Remove from heat and stir in the strawberry jello powder until it’s completely dissolved. Let this cool for about 15 minutes at room temperature—this cooldown helps the filling thicken even more and protects those beautiful fresh strawberries from cooking in hot liquid.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Arrange the sliced fresh strawberries evenly over your pre-baked pie crust. Pour the cooled but still pourable filling over the berries, spreading gently to cover all. Then pop it in the fridge for at least 3 hours—overnight is even better—to let everything set firmly. Patience here really pays off!
Step 4: Serve with Fresh Whipping Cream
Just before serving, whip up some fresh cream or grab your favorite whipped topping. A dollop on each slice adds a silky contrast to the fruity brightness of the pie and takes it from simple to stunning.
Pro Tips for Making Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe
- Fresh Strawberries Matter: Make sure your berries are ripe but firm. Overripe strawberries can turn mushy and affect the pie’s texture.
- Cool the Filling Properly: Don’t pour hot filling over strawberries—it’ll damage their shape and make the pie watery. Let it cool to just warm.
- Use Pie Weights: These save you from a crust that bubbles up or shrinks while baking. If you don’t have weights, dried beans or rice works well!
- Chill Thoroughly: Giving the pie at least 3 hours (preferably overnight) in the fridge is key to getting that perfect slice that holds together beautifully.
How to Serve Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe
Garnishes
I usually add a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream right on top—it’s my favorite way to add creaminess without overpowering the fresh strawberry notes. Sometimes I sprinkle a little finely chopped fresh mint or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch when guests are coming over.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a light cup of iced tea or fresh lemonade, especially on warm days. If you’re serving it as part of a larger meal, simple dishes like grilled chicken or fresh green salads complement its sweet, fruity vibe perfectly without competing.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I’ve tried turning this pie into mini individual portions using small tart pans, letting everyone have their own personal slice topped with whipped cream and a mint sprig. Another fun idea is to swirl some chocolate drizzle over the top—it adds a beautiful contrast and makes the dessert feel festive and extra indulgent.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover strawberry pie tightly covered in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, and after the first day, the flavors actually meld and get even better. Just keep it chilled and covered to avoid the crust getting soggy from fridge humidity.
Freezing
While I don’t usually freeze this pie because the fresh strawberries lose their texture when thawed, you can freeze the pie crust ahead of time before baking. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before assembling and baking your pie.
Reheating
This pie is best served chilled, so I don’t recommend reheating. If you’ve frozen and then thawed the crust, gently warming the crust alone for a few minutes in a low oven before filling can freshen up the texture.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen strawberries in this Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh strawberries for this pie because frozen berries tend to release excess water, which can make the filling runny and the crust soggy. If you only have frozen, thaw and drain them thoroughly before using, but keep in mind the texture and appearance will be different.
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How can I make the pie gluten-free?
Simply swap out the traditional pie crust for a gluten-free crust available at most grocery stores or make one from almond flour and butter. The filling recipe stays the same and works perfectly.
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What’s the best way to slice the pie neatly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before slicing each piece. This ensures clean cuts through the gelled filling and prevents the strawberries from tearing, giving you beautiful slices every time.
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Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! The pie actually tastes better after chilling overnight, which allows the filling to fully set and the flavors to meld. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe holds a special place in my heart as a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert that never fails to brighten any table. The simple ingredients come together with little effort yet deliver a remarkable fresh strawberry flavor that’s hard to beat. Next time you see juicy strawberries at the market, grab some and give this pie a whirl—you’ll be so glad you did, and your friends and family will be asking for the recipe too!
Print
Easy Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This incredibly easy Fresh Strawberry Pie recipe features a flaky baked pie crust filled with a luscious strawberry jello glaze over fresh sliced strawberries. Perfectly chilled, it is a refreshing dessert topped with light whipped cream that highlights the sweet, vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 9 inch pie crust
Filling
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 3 ounce package strawberry jello
- 4 cups fresh strawberries sliced
Topping
- Fresh whipping cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Bake the crust according to package directions. To ensure the crust stays in place while baking, line it with aluminum foil and bake for 8 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is golden and fully baked.
- Make the Filling: In a small saucepan, whisk together cornstarch, sugar, and water until smooth. Bring the mixture to a boil and continue whisking for 2 minutes until it starts to thicken. Remove from heat and stir in the strawberry jello until completely dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool for about 15 minutes to prevent cooking the strawberries.
- Assemble the Pie: Arrange the sliced fresh strawberries evenly in the baked pie crust. Pour the cooled strawberry jello mixture gently over the strawberries, spreading evenly.
- Chill the Pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours or overnight until the filling is fully set and firm.
- Serve: Slice the chilled pie and serve topped with fresh whipping cream for a perfect finish.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and color.
- Ensure the jello mixture is cooled before pouring on the strawberries to prevent them from becoming too soft.
- You can substitute the fresh whipping cream with whipped topping or make homemade whipped cream.
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pie crust.
- This pie is best served the same day or within 1-2 days of preparation for freshness.
