Looking for a simple yet scrumptious dessert to feed a crowd? Easy Strawberry Slab Pie is the perfect choice! With its flaky crust, juicy strawberry filling, and a hint of citrus, this pie is sure to impress at any gathering. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delightful dessert:
Ingredients
- 1 (11 oz.) package refrigerated pie crust (includes two crusts)
- Filling:
- 32 oz. fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 1/2 cups lemon-lime soda (e.g., Sprite)
- 6 oz. strawberry Jell-O
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Frozen whipped topping or whipped cream, for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
1.1 Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
1.2 Prepare the Pie Crust: Unroll one of the refrigerated pie crusts and fit it into a 13×9-inch baking dish. Press the crust into the edges of the dish and trim any excess.
1.3 Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Make the Strawberry Filling:
2.1 Prepare the Strawberries: Hull and slice the fresh strawberries.
2.2 Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.
2.3 Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the remaining 1 cup of sugar, cornstarch, and strawberry Jell-O.
2.4 Add Liquid: Gradually whisk in the lemon-lime soda until the mixture is smooth.
2.5 Cook the Filling: Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it comes to a boil and thickens. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2.6 Add Strawberries: Remove from heat and gently fold in the prepared strawberries. The mixture will be thick and glossy.
3. Assemble the Pie:
3.1 Pour the Filling: Pour the strawberry filling into the partially baked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
3.2 Top with Second Crust: Unroll the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. You can also cut the top crust into strips and create a lattice pattern if desired.
3.3 Cut Slits: If using a full crust, cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
3.4 Bake the Pie: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
4. Cool and Serve:
4.1 Cool the Pie: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. This allows the filling to set properly.
4.2 Garnish and Serve: Once cooled, garnish with frozen whipped topping or freshly whipped cream before serving.
Tips for Success
Crust Preparation:
- Prevent Sogginess: To avoid a soggy bottom crust, you can brush it with an egg wash before baking or sprinkle a thin layer of crushed graham crackers or breadcrumbs on the bottom before adding the filling.
- Chill the Crust: If the dough becomes too soft while working with it, chill it briefly in the refrigerator to make it easier to handle.
Filling Consistency:
- Thickening: Ensure you cook the filling until it’s thick and bubbly to avoid runny pie. The cornstarch and Jell-O will help it set as it cools.
- Strawberry Quality: Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with Ice Cream: This pie is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
- Chill Before Serving: For a refreshing dessert, chill the pie in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prepare in Advance: This pie can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just add the whipped topping or whipped cream right before serving.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Easy Strawberry Slab Pie is a fantastic dessert that combines the vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries with a buttery pie crust. Its simple preparation and delicious result make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a sweet treat for your family, this slab pie is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every bite of this delightful, berry-filled dessert!
