The Old Boy’s Strawberry Pie Recipe: A Classic Dessert for All Seasons

This recipe focuses on using fresh ingredients to create a strawberry pie that tastes like it was made with love, time, and care. With this guide, you’ll learn every step to make a pie that not only tastes great but looks stunning. Perfect for any occasion, this strawberry pie is sure to impress your friends and family, no matter the season. Let’s dive into the ingredients and methods that will bring this nostalgic dessert to life.

Ingredients for The Old Boy’s Strawberry Pie

Making this strawberry pie from scratch doesn’t require many ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect flavor and texture.

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of a flaky crust.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed – The key to a flaky, buttery crust.
• 3-5 tablespoons ice water – Helps bring the dough together without overworking it.

For the Filling:

• 5 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved – The star of the show, providing natural sweetness and bright color.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling without overpowering the strawberries.
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch – Thickens the glaze to the perfect consistency.
• ¼ cup water – Blends with cornstarch to form a smooth glaze.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – Adds brightness and a subtle tang that enhances the strawberry flavor.

Optional Garnishes:

• Whipped cream – For a creamy, airy topping.
• Mint leaves – Adds a fresh, decorative touch.
• Powdered sugar – A light dusting gives a sweet and pretty finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Pie Crust

• Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
• Cut in the butter: Add the chilled, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
• Add ice water: Gradually add 1 tablespoon of ice water at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Continue adding water until the dough just comes together.
• Form and chill: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Crust for Baking

• Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan.
• Transfer and shape: Carefully transfer the dough to the pie pan, pressing it into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
• Pre-bake the crust: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place parchment paper over the crust and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, remove weights, and bake for another 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool.

3. Prepare the Strawberry Filling

• Make the glaze: In a small saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
• Add lemon juice: Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
• Combine with strawberries: In a large bowl, gently fold the glaze into the strawberries, coating them evenly.

4. Assemble the Pie

• Layer the strawberries: Arrange the glazed strawberries evenly in the cooled pie crust, creating a visually pleasing, even layer.
• Chill the pie: Refrigerate the assembled pie for at least 2 hours, allowing the filling to set completely.

5. Garnish and Serve

• Add garnishes: Just before serving, add dollops of whipped cream, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, and a few fresh mint leaves for a beautiful finish.
• Slice and enjoy: Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices, and serve each piece with a touch of whipped cream if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Pie

1. Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries: The flavor of the pie depends heavily on the quality of the strawberries. Choose bright, firm, and ripe berries for the best taste.
2. Chill the Dough Properly: Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps prevent shrinking during baking.
3. Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: A small amount of lemon juice brightens the flavor of the strawberries and balances the sweetness.

Variations and Customizations

• Mixed Berry Pie: Substitute half of the strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a colorful, mixed berry pie.
• Chocolate Strawberry Pie: Melt a few ounces of chocolate and spread it on the crust before adding the strawberries for a hint of chocolate flavor.
• Crumble Topping: Add a buttery, crumbly topping made of flour, butter, and sugar for extra texture.

Serving Suggestions

This strawberry pie is delightful on its own, but here are some serving ideas to elevate it even more:

• With Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each slice is a classic pairing.
• Drizzle of Chocolate: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the pie for a decadent finish.
• Sweetened Whipped Cream: Whip up heavy cream with a touch of sugar and vanilla for a homemade whipped cream topping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain them well before using.

How long does the strawberry pie last?

Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the pie up to one day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 2g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients.

Conclusion

Creating The Old Boy’s Strawberry Pie from scratch is a delightful way to honor tradition while enjoying a fresh, fruity dessert. The natural sweetness of strawberries, balanced by a touch of lemon and nestled in a flaky, buttery crust, makes this pie an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, a summer barbecue, or simply to enjoy at home, this strawberry pie brings joy with every bite. With simple ingredients and a bit of love, you’ll have a classic dessert that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every delicious slice of this time-honored recipe, and make it a cherished part of your dessert repertoire.