Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie

If you’re lucky enough to live near a Big Boy restaurant in the United States, you’ve likely experienced the joy of their fresh strawberry pie. For those who aren’t as fortunate, fear not! You can easily recreate this delightful dessert right in your own kitchen.

A Favorite Big Boy Restaurant Dessert
Nothing says summer quite like a fresh strawberry pie. This sweet and tart dessert, inspired by Big Boy’s famous pie, combines a luscious strawberry filling with a light, flaky crust. Big Boy restaurants have been a beloved part of American dining since 1936, and their strawberry pie remains a customer favorite. While most of their locations are in Michigan, with a few scattered across California, North Dakota, and Ohio, you don’t need to be nearby to enjoy this treat. Even if you’re not an experienced baker, you’ll find this recipe simple to follow. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it over and over again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe captures the essence of summer with its fresh strawberries and light, flaky crust. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat after dinner. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, so you can enjoy a homemade pie without spending hours in the kitchen.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9-inch pie pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Small saucepan
• Spatula
• Oven
• Refrigerator

Ingredients

Pie Crust Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 ounces butter, at room temperature
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Strawberry Pie Filling Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring
• 1 quart strawberries, rinsed, stemmed, and dried
• 1 pint whipped cream for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pie Crust Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Prick the crust all over with a fork.
3. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until the crust is lightly browned. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.

Strawberry Pie Filling Instructions

1. While the crust is baking, combine the water, granulated sugar, salt, cornstarch, and red food coloring in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.
2. Once the crust has cooled, arrange the strawberries evenly inside the crust. Pour the cooled glaze over the strawberries.
3. Refrigerate the pie until the glaze is set. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Tips for Success

• For a flakier crust, ensure the butter is at room temperature before mixing.
• Allow the glaze to cool slightly before pouring it over the strawberries to avoid wilting the fruit.
• Chill the pie thoroughly before serving for the best texture.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a twist, try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling for a hint of citrus. You can also experiment with different berries or a combination of your favorites for a mixed berry pie.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are recommended for their flavor and texture, but you can use frozen if fresh are unavailable. Just be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using.

How long will the pie keep?
The pie will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.

Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Yes, the crust can be prepared and baked a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature until you’re ready to assemble the pie.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of making a delicious pie from scratch. Give this Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie recipe a try, and let the flavors of summer brighten your day. We’d love to hear how it turns out, so please share your experiences and any creative variations you come up with!