How to Make the Perfect Baked Strawberry Pie

 There’s something magical about a warm, homemade strawberry pie. Whether you're craving a sweet dessert for family dinner or looking for a centerpiece for a summer gathering, this baked strawberry pie is sure to impress. With its flaky, golden crust and vibrant, juicy filling, it’s a treat that feels both comforting and elegant. Plus, strawberries add a naturally sweet and tangy burst of flavor that’s just irresistible. Ready to get baking? Here’s everything you need to know!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the pie crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 6–8 tablespoons ice water

For the strawberry filling:

• 6 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness of the berries)
• ¼ cup cornstarch (or tapioca starch for a glossier filling)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
• Optional: Turbinado sugar for sprinkling on the crust

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Make the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to incorporate the butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
2. Chill: Divide the dough in half, shape each portion into a disc, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days). This allows the butter to firm up, ensuring a flaky crust.

Step 2: Create the Strawberry Filling

1. Combine ingredients: Place the fresh strawberries in a large bowl. Add the sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Gently toss until the berries are evenly coated.
2. Set aside: Let the filling sit for at least 15 minutes. This step allows the strawberries to release their natural juices and ensures the cornstarch blends well into the mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Roll out the crust: On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish, leaving some overhang. Gently transfer the rolled dough to the pie dish and press it into place. Trim any excess dough around the edges.
2. Add the filling: Pour the strawberry mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the top with small pieces of butter.
3. Top with crust:
   • For a classic double crust pie, roll out the second dough disc and lay it over the filling. Seal and crimp the edges, then cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape.
   • For a lattice crust, cut the second dough into strips and weave them over the filling, pressing the edges to seal.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Add egg wash: Whisk together the egg and milk. Brush this mixture over the top crust to give it a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.
3. Bake: Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, cover them with foil or a pie shield halfway through baking.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once the pie is baked, allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial! It gives the filling time to set, so it won’t spill out when you slice into the pie.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Pie

• Use ripe strawberries. The better the berries, the better the pie. Look for firm, bright-red strawberries with a sweet smell.
• Chill the dough. Keeping the dough cold prevents the butter from melting before baking, resulting in a flaky, tender crust.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch. It thickens the fruit juices, so your filling isn’t runny.
• Adjust sweetness. Taste your strawberries before assembling the filling. If they’re extra sweet, cut back on the sugar a bit.

Serving and Pairing

This pie is delightful on its own, but if you want an extra treat, serve it slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a refreshing pairing, a glass of cold lemonade or iced tea complements the pie beautifully.

Whether you’re enjoying it on your porch in the sunshine or serving it as a cozy dessert in the colder months, baked strawberry pie brings a little slice of happiness to any day. Happy baking!