Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe

Description

Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie is a classic dessert known for its glossy strawberry glaze, fresh, juicy strawberries, and flaky pie crust. This pie is light, refreshing, and perfect for spring and summer. It’s inspired by the famous Big Boy restaurant’s version, which has been a favorite for decades.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 pre-made or homemade 9-inch pie crust
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional, for a slightly sweet crust)

For the Filling:

• 1 quart (about 1½ lbs) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 3 oz strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Whipped cream
• Fresh mint leaves

Instructions

1. Bake the Pie Crust

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out pie dough into a 9-inch pie pan, crimping the edges.
3. Prick the bottom with a fork and line with parchment paper. Fill with pie weights or dried beans.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Let cool completely.

2. Prepare the Strawberry Glaze

1. In a saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and water. Stir over medium heat until thickened and clear (about 3-5 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in the strawberry gelatin until dissolved. Let cool for about 10 minutes.

3. Assemble the Pie

1. Arrange fresh strawberries in the cooled pie crust.
2. Pour the cooled glaze over the strawberries, ensuring all berries are coated.
3. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or until the glaze is set.

4. Serve and Enjoy

• Slice and serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Notes

• Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
• If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain them well before use.
• The pie is best enjoyed within 24 hours as the strawberries release juice over time.

Tips for Success

✅ Make Ahead: Bake the crust a day before and store it covered.
✅ Even Glaze Distribution: Pour the glaze gradually, letting it seep through the strawberries.
✅ Extra Firmness: If you prefer a firmer filling, reduce water slightly (¾ cup instead of 1 cup).
✅ Serving Tip: Serve with a chilled plate for a refreshing touch.

Servings & Nutritional Info

Servings: 6-8 slices
Per Serving (Approximate):

• Calories: 250
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Sugar: 35g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 2g

Health Benefits

🍓 Strawberries: Rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C, and fiber.
💪 Low in Fat: Compared to cream-based desserts, this pie is lighter.
🌱 No Artificial Additives: Homemade glaze is fresher than store-bought fillings.

Q&A

❓ Can I use a graham cracker crust instead?
✅ Yes! It adds a delicious crunchy texture and complements the strawberries well.

❓ How do I store leftovers?
✅ Cover and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. The crust may soften over time.

❓ Can I make this sugar-free?
✅ Use a sugar substitute like erythritol and sugar-free gelatin.

❓ What if my glaze is too runny?
✅ Cook the cornstarch mixture a bit longer until it thickens properly.

❓ Can I freeze this pie?
❌ Freezing is not recommended as strawberries release too much water when thawed.

Enjoy this classic Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie for a delicious, nostalgic treat! 🍓🥧