Name: Easy Strawberry Slab Pie
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ tsp salt; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 ¼ cups unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 6-8 tbsp ice water; 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup cornstarch; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 2 tbsp sugar (for sprinkling)

Summer is the perfect time for fresh, fruity desserts, and what better way to showcase the vibrant flavors of the season than with an Easy Strawberry Slab Pie? This delightful dessert is not only visually stunning but also incredibly simple to make, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings, picnics, and barbecues. With its flaky crust and sweet-tart filling, this pie captures the essence of summer, and you’ll find it hard to resist a slice (or two!). Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use fresh strawberries when they’re at their peak.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 ¼ cups unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Topping:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 2 tbsp sugar (for sprinkling)

Steps / Instructions

Make the Pie Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled, cubed butter and mix using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Prepare the Strawberry Filling: In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Gently toss to combine and let sit for about 15 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to fit a 13×18-inch baking sheet. Transfer it to the sheet, pressing gently into the corners. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
Add the Filling: Pour the strawberry filling evenly over the prepared crust, spreading it out gently.
Top with the Second Crust: Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges together to seal. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Brush and Sprinkle: Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar for a touch of sweetness and sparkle.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Check for doneness by looking for a golden crust and bubbling filling.
Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This will help the filling set up nicely. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Tips & Tricks

For a flaky crust, ensure your butter is very cold before mixing it into the dry ingredients.
Use a mix of strawberries and other berries such as blueberries or raspberries for a delicious twist on the filling.
If you’re short on time, store-bought pie crust can be a great substitute for homemade pie crust recipes.
This Easy Strawberry Slab Pie can be made ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Common mistakes to avoid include overworking the dough and not chilling it long enough, which can lead to tough crusts.

Variations

For those looking to customize their Easy Strawberry Slab Pie, consider these variations: You can learn more about this topic.

Substitute some of the strawberries with other fresh fruits like peaches or cherries for unique flavor combinations.
For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend in the crust and adjust the cornstarch in the filling as needed.
Experiment with different spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, in the filling for added depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a refreshing summer dessert, serve with a chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea. You can also garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor. Check out our related guide for more tips.

Conclusion

Incorporating fresh strawberries into this Easy Strawberry Slab Pie not only makes for a delicious dessert but also creates a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. With simple steps and fresh ingredients, you can impress family and friends alike with this delightful treat. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations in the comments below!