Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie – A Classic & Easy Homemade Dessert

There’s something magical about fresh strawberry pie. The bright red strawberries, the glossy glaze, the flaky crust, and the fluffy whipped cream all come together in a perfect bite of sweet, fruity, and creamy goodness.

This Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie is a nostalgic favorite inspired by the famous dessert from the Big Boy restaurant chain. It’s one of those old-fashioned, diner-style pies that never goes out of style.

I remember the first time I had a slice of this pie—it was love at first bite. The strawberries were bursting with fresh sweetness, the glaze had just the right amount of tangy balance, and the crust was buttery and flaky. Ever since, I’ve made it a tradition to bake this pie every summer when strawberries are at their peak.

Whether you’re making this for a family gathering, potluck, or just to treat yourself, this homemade strawberry pie is guaranteed to be a hit. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step process so you can make the perfect Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie at home!

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Ingredients for the Best Fresh Strawberry Pie

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – The base for a flaky crust.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed) – Ensures a flaky texture.
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water – Helps bring the dough together.

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 1 quart fresh strawberries (hulled and halved) – The star of the pie!
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the glaze.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Thickens the filling.
• ¾ cup water – For dissolving the cornstarch and sugar.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Enhances the strawberry flavor.
• 1 tablespoon strawberry gelatin (Jell-O powder) – Adds a bright red color and extra strawberry taste.

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream – For homemade whipped cream.
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – For extra flavor.
• Graham cracker crumbs (optional, for garnish) – Adds a little crunch.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie

Step 1: Make the Pie Crust

A good strawberry pie starts with a flaky, buttery crust.

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
2. Cut in cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough starts to come together.
4. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

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Step 2: Blind Bake the Crust

Since this is a no-bake strawberry pie, we need to fully bake the crust before adding the filling.

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and place it into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Trim the edges, crimp the crust, and prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
4. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
5. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for another 10 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Let the crust cool completely before adding the filling.

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Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Glaze

The glossy strawberry glaze is what makes this pie irresistible!

1. In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and water over medium heat.
2. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and turns clear (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and strawberry gelatin until fully dissolved.
4. Let the glaze cool slightly.

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Step 4: Assemble the Pie

1. Arrange fresh strawberries in the cooled pie crust.
2. Pour the cooled glaze over the strawberries, making sure they are well coated.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is fully set.

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Step 5: Make the Whipped Cream Topping

No Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie is complete without homemade whipped cream!

1. In a chilled bowl, beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
2. Pipe or spread the whipped cream over the pie.
3. Sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs for an extra touch.

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Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Slice the pie and serve it chilled. Every bite will be bursting with sweet strawberries, flaky crust, and creamy topping—just like the classic Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie.

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Expert Tips for the Best Strawberry Pie

1. Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries

The quality of the strawberries makes all the difference! Use bright red, firm, and sweet strawberries for the best flavor.

2. Don’t Skip the Gelatin

The strawberry gelatin (Jell-O powder) helps the glaze set properly and enhances the natural strawberry taste.

3. Fully Bake & Cool the Pie Crust

Since the filling isn’t baked, the crust needs to be fully cooked and cooled before adding the strawberries.

4. Chill the Pie Before Serving

Refrigerating the pie for at least 2 hours helps the filling firm up and allows the flavors to meld.

5. Serve with Homemade Whipped Cream

Freshly whipped cream tastes way better than store-bought. For extra stability, you can add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch to the whipped cream while beating.

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Variations & Customizations

1. Chocolate Strawberry Pie

Add a layer of melted chocolate to the pie crust before adding the strawberries for a decadent twist!

2. Mixed Berry Pie

Use a combination of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a mixed berry version.

3. Graham Cracker Crust

Swap the buttery pie crust for a graham cracker crust for a crunchier texture.

4. Sugar-Free Version

Use sugar-free Jell-O and a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie version.

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What to Serve with Fresh Strawberry Pie

Strawberry pie is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides and drinks can elevate the experience. Here are some great pairings:

1. A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

The combination of cold, creamy ice cream and sweet strawberries is heavenly. The ice cream melts into the pie, creating a rich and luscious bite.

2. Fresh Mint Garnish

A sprig of fresh mint adds color and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries.

3. A Glass of Iced Tea or Lemonade

Pairing this pie with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade balances the sweetness with a bit of tang.

4. Chocolate Drizzle

For an extra indulgent twist, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the whipped cream.

5. Espresso or Coffee

A cup of espresso or iced coffee complements the pie’s sweetness and bright fruit flavors.

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How to Store & Keep Strawberry Pie Fresh

Refrigerating the Pie

• Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, keep the whipped cream separate and add it just before serving to maintain freshness.

Freezing the Pie

• Can you freeze strawberry pie? Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the whipped cream topping.
• How to freeze: Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freezing time: Up to 2 months.
• To serve: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then add fresh whipped cream before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?

No, fresh strawberries are best for this pie. Frozen strawberries release too much moisture, making the filling watery.

2. Why Is My Strawberry Glaze Too Runny?

If the glaze is too thin, it may need more cornstarch. Try simmering it for a few more minutes until it thickens properly.

3. Can I Make This Pie a Day Ahead?

Yes! This pie actually tastes even better the next day because the flavors have more time to meld. Just be sure to add the whipped cream right before serving.

4. Can I Use a Store-Bought Pie Crust?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a pre-made pie crust works well. Just make sure to bake it fully before adding the filling.

5. How Do I Prevent a Soggy Crust?

To prevent a soggy bottom, brush the baked crust with melted white chocolate before adding the strawberries. It creates a barrier that keeps the crust crisp.

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Final Thoughts – Try This Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie Today!

This Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie is the ultimate summer dessert, with sweet, juicy strawberries, a buttery crust, and fresh whipped cream. Whether you make it for a family gathering, potluck, or just because, this classic pie will bring smiles to everyone who tries it.

Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe and let me know how it turns out in the comments. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more delicious recipes: https://www.pinterest.com/memorecipes1/

Happy baking! 🍓🥧

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