Blissful Indulgence: BigBoy Strawberry Pie Recipe
Prepare yourself for a journey into the realm of exquisite desserts with our BigBoy Strawberry Pie recipe. Bursting with the sweet essence of fresh strawberries, this pie is a celebration of the vibrant flavors of summer. Inspired by the classic, our BigBoy version elevates the experience, making it a grand treat for special occasions or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings. Join us as we guide you through the steps of creating this heavenly pie that promises a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup ice water
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 6 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves
- Additional sliced strawberries
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pie Crust: In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Roll Out the Crust: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one disc of pie crust on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press the crust into the dish, trim any excess, and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork, line with parchment paper, and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment paper and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
- Prepare the Strawberry Filling: In a saucepan, combine 4 cups of strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries release their juices. Remove from heat, stir in the lemon juice, and let it cool to room temperature.
- Assemble the Pie: Once the pie crust and filling are cooled, pour the strawberry filling into the crust. Arrange the remaining 2 cups of fresh strawberries on top.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the strawberries.
- Garnish and Chill: Garnish the pie with fresh mint leaves and additional sliced strawberries. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or until set.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Citrus Zest: Enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the strawberry filling.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the sliced strawberries for a sophisticated twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, over the whipped cream for added texture.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the whipped cream before garnishing.
Keto Versions and Low-Carb Version:
Keto Version:
- Almond Flour Crust: Substitute almond flour for the all-purpose flour in the crust for a keto-friendly option.
- Sugar Substitute: Use a keto-approved sweetener like erythritol or stevia in place of granulated sugar in both the crust and the filling.
- Coconut Cream Topping: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream in the whipped topping.
Low-Carb Version:
- Coconut Flour Crust: Swap out the all-purpose flour for coconut flour in the crust for a lower-carb alternative.
- Berries Mix: Include a mix of low-carb berries, such as raspberries and blackberries, in the filling.
- Greek Yogurt Topping: Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt in the whipped topping for a lower-carb option.
As the first forkful of our BigBoy Strawberry Pie melts in your mouth, you’ll understand why it’s more than a dessert; it’s an experience. From the buttery, flaky crust to the luscious strawberry filling and the cloud-like whipped cream on top, every layer is a testament to the art of creating a masterpiece in your own kitchen. Whether you opt for the classic recipe or explore the keto and low-carb variations, this BigBoy Strawberry Pie is a symphony of flavors that will leave you savoring the sweet memories with each delightful bite. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and embark on a journey of pure indulgence with this unforgettable strawberry sensation.