Introduction
Imagine biting into a slice of sweet, juicy strawberry pie on a warm summer day. The vibrant red strawberries, nestled in a flaky crust, burst with flavor in every bite. It’s a dessert that brings back memories of family gatherings, picnics in the park, and the simple joys of life. Today, I want to share with you the recipe for Big Boy’s Strawberry Pie – a timeless classic that has been passed down through generations in my family.
Discovering the Recipe
The story of Big Boy’s Strawberry Pie begins with my great-grandmother, who was an exceptional baker. She had an uncanny ability to create mouthwatering desserts that left everyone craving for more. One summer, while cleaning out her attic, I stumbled upon a weathered recipe card tucked away in an old recipe box. The card was titled “Big Boy’s Strawberry Pie,” and it instantly piqued my curiosity.
I could almost picture my great-grandmother in her kitchen, carefully measuring each ingredient and lovingly crafting this delectable dessert. Excited to uncover a hidden gem, I decided to give the recipe a try and share it with my family and friends.
Instructions for Preparation
Making Big Boy’s Strawberry Pie is a labor of love, but the end result is absolutely worth it. Here’s how you can recreate this delightful dessert:
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the crust by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup of cold unsalted butter in a mixing bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend the ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a disk. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Roll out one dough disk on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough to the dish and press it gently into the bottom and sides.
5. In a separate bowl, combine 4 cups of fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced), 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of cornstarch, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Mix until the strawberries are well-coated.
6. Pour the strawberry mixture into the pie crust, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Dot the top with small pieces of butter.
7. Roll out the second dough disk and place it over the strawberry filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
8. Brush the top crust with an egg wash made by beating an egg with a tablespoon of water. Sprinkle some sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
9. Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Allow it to cool completely before serving.
Variations and Customizations
While Big Boy’s Strawberry Pie is perfect as is, you can always add your own twist to make it uniquely yours. Here are a few ideas:
1. Streusel Topping: Instead of a traditional double crust, sprinkle a buttery streusel mixture made with oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon over the strawberry filling.
2. Mint Infusion: Add a refreshing twist by infusing the strawberry filling with a hint of fresh mint. Simply chop a few mint leaves and mix them in with the strawberries.
3. Almond Crust: Substitute the regular pie crust with a nutty almond crust for a delightful flavor combination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
A: While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. Thaw and drain them before using in the recipe.
Q: Can I make the pie crust in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the pie crust a day or two in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it.
Q: Can I use a store-bought crust instead?
A: If you’re short on time or prefer the convenience, you can certainly use a pre-made pie crust. However, I highly recommend making the crust from scratch for the best results.
Conclusion
Big Boy’s Strawberry Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a taste of nostalgia and a way to cherish the traditions of the past. With its buttery crust and luscious strawberry filling, this pie is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or enjoying a slice on a cozy winter evening, this recipe is a timeless classic that never fails to bring smiles to faces. So go ahead, gather the ingredients, and create your own sweet memories with Big Boy’s Strawberry Pie.
