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Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie

Carly
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A Taste of Big Boy Nostalgia: Homemade Fresh Strawberry Pie

Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie

Ever yearn for a slice of Big Boy's legendary fresh strawberry pie but can't find a restaurant nearby? Well, fret no more! This recipe unlocks the secrets to crafting this delightful dessert right in your own kitchen.

More Than Just a Dessert: A Bite of Nostalgia

For many, Big Boy's strawberry pie is more than just a delicious treat. It's a portal to cherished memories of family dinners and classic American fare. This recipe empowers you to recreate that heartwarming experience at home, sharing a taste of tradition and sparking new memories with loved ones.

Effortlessly Fresh, bursting with Summer Flavor:

This recipe celebrates the beauty of fresh, seasonal strawberries. Each bite explodes with juicy, summery sweetness, perfectly complemented by the simple glaze and the homemade pie crust's delightful flakiness.

Big Boy's Fresh Strawberry Pie Ingredients:

Here are the ingredients you'll need to make Big Boy's Fresh Strawberry Pie:

Crust:

  • 1 frozen pie crust (deep dish recommended, if available) (Option 1: Pre-made pie crust)
  • OR (Option 2: Homemade pie crust)
    • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
    • 3-4 tablespoons ice water

Filling:

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 1/4 cups water
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons dry strawberry gelatin (like Jello, about 1/2 a 3 oz box) (Optional: Substitute with clear gelatin for a less sweet option)

Optional Garnishes:

  • Whipped cream
  • Fresh mint leaves

Notes:

  • Using a deep dish pie crust allows for more filling.
  • If making your own pie crust, follow your preferred recipe for a flaky crust.
  • You can adjust the amount of sugar in the filling depending on the sweetness of your strawberries.

Step-by-Step Guide to Pie Perfection:

Preheating for a Golden Crust:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the crust bakes evenly and develops a beautiful golden-brown color, the hallmark of a perfect pie.

Crafting a Flaky and Flavorful Crust:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
  2. Using a pastry cutter, a fork, or even your fingertips, work the ingredients together until a crumbly dough forms. Imagine tiny pebbles of dough clinging together.
  3. Gently press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Don't forget to prick the bottom of the crust with a fork a few times. This allows steam to escape and prevents air pockets from forming.

Blind Baking for a Flawless Foundation:

  1. Bake the empty pie crust for 10-15 minutes, or until lightly browned. This process, called blind baking, ensures the crust is fully cooked through without soggy bottoms.
  2. Once baked, remove the crust from the oven and let it cool completely before adding the filling. Patience is key here!

Creating a Sweet Glaze (While the Crust Bakes):

  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the water, granulated sugar, salt, cornstarch, and red food coloring.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes. The glaze will thicken as it cooks, transforming into a luscious sauce.
  3. Remove the glaze from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.

Assembling Your Masterpiece:

  1. Once the crust is cool and the glaze has cooled slightly, it's time to assemble your masterpiece!
  2. Arrange the fresh, rinsed, and dried strawberries in a single layer over the bottom of the cooled pie crust. Imagine a vibrant mosaic of red jewels.

The Finishing Touch:

  • Carefully pour the cooled strawberry glaze over the top of the arranged berries. The glaze will coat the berries and create a beautiful, glossy sheen, making them look even more irresistible.

Setting the Stage for Perfection:

  • Refrigerate the entire pie for at least a few hours, or until the glaze has completely set. This allows the flavors to meld and the crust to soften slightly, creating a delightful textural contrast.

Serving with a Touch of Nostalgia:

  1. When ready to serve, top your homemade Big Boy-inspired strawberry pie with a dollop of whipped cream or whipped dessert topping.
  2. Slice, serve, and savor the taste of a classic dessert, recreated with love in your own kitchen! Every bite is a celebration of fresh flavors and a delightful trip down memory lane.

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