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### **Instructions for Making Classic Strawberry Pie**
#### 1. **Prepare the Pie Crust**
Start by preparing the pie crust. If you’re using a pre-made pie crust, follow the package instructions to bake it. If you prefer to make your own crust, you can easily make a simple buttery pie crust by mixing 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (cut into cubes), 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 3-4 tablespoons of cold water until it forms a dough. Roll it out, fit it into a pie dish, and bake it at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
Once your crust is baked, let it cool completely before filling it with the strawberry mixture.
#### 2. **Make the Strawberry Filling**
In a medium saucepan, combine the halved strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine, then cook over medium heat until the mixture begins to thicken. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it starts to bubble, continue cooking for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the glaze is thick and shiny.
#### 3. **Prepare the Glaze**
In a separate small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens into a smooth glaze. Once it’s ready, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the glaze to cool slightly before adding it to the pie.
#### 4. **Assemble the Pie**
Once the pie crust has cooled and the strawberry filling and glaze are ready, arrange the halved strawberries in the pie crust. Pour the thickened strawberry mixture over the top, spreading it out evenly. Pour the glaze over the strawberries, making sure to coat them evenly and allow the filling to set as it cools.
#### 5. **Chill and Set**
Place the pie in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to allow the filling to set and the flavors to meld together. The longer it chills, the better the flavors will develop!
#### 6. **Garnish and Serve**
Before serving, garnish the pie with whipped cream, fresh mint leaves, or a drizzle of chocolate, if desired. You can also place a few whole strawberries on top for a beautiful finishing touch.
Slice into your pie and enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and texture!
### **Tips for Making the Best Strawberry Pie**
– **Use Fresh Strawberries**: For the best flavor, use ripe, fresh strawberries. The natural sweetness of the strawberries is the star of this dessert, so quality matters.
– **Avoid Soggy Crust**: To prevent your crust from becoming soggy, you can brush the inside of the baked pie crust with a thin layer of melted chocolate or white chocolate before adding the strawberry filling. This creates a barrier that helps keep the crust crisp.
– **Adjust Sweetness**: Depending on the ripeness of your strawberries, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar in the filling. Taste the strawberries before adding sugar and adjust accordingly.
– **Make Ahead**: Strawberry pie can be made a day or two ahead of time. Just make sure to store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
### **Healthier Alternatives**
While strawberry pie is a sweet indulgence, you can make a few swaps to make it a little lighter:
– **Use a Reduced-Sugar Pie Filling**: Instead of using granulated sugar, you can substitute a sugar alternative like Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener.
– **Use a Whole Wheat Crust**: If you prefer a slightly healthier crust, opt for a whole wheat pie crust or make a crust from oats for a more wholesome base.
– **Light Whipped Cream**: Top the pie with light whipped cream or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for a protein-packed topping.
### **Conclusion: A Slice of Nostalgia**
**Classic Strawberry Pie** is more than just a dessert—it’s a reminder of the simple joys of life. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a summer picnic, or just enjoying it on a quiet evening, this pie brings a taste of nostalgia with every bite. With its perfect combination of sweet strawberries, buttery crust, and smooth glaze, it’s a dessert that never goes out of style.
So, the next time you have fresh strawberries on hand, whip up this nostalgic classic and enjoy the sweet memories it creates!
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