Classic Strawberry Pie
Classic Strawberry Pie Recipe - Skim Milk, Graham Cracker Pie Crust, Strawberries, Powdered Sugar
Introduction
Classic Strawberry Pie is a delicious and refreshing dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This pie features a creamy vanilla pudding filling topped with fresh California strawberries, all nestled in a sweet graham cracker crust. It's a simple yet elegant dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends.
History
Strawberry pie has been a popular dessert in America for many years, especially during the summer months when fresh strawberries are in season. The combination of sweet strawberries and creamy pudding is a classic pairing that has stood the test of time. This recipe puts a modern twist on the traditional strawberry pie by using instant vanilla pudding mix for a quick and easy filling.
Ingredients
- 1 package (3.4 oz (96 g)) of instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup of skim milk
- 9 inches of prepared graham cracker pie crust or 9 inches of homemade graham cracker pie crust (recipe follows)
- 2 pt (946 ml) baskets of California strawberries, stemmed
- powdered sugar, for dusting
How to prepare
- In a bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and milk for 2 minutes. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Spread the pudding evenly in the pie crust.
- Cover the top of the pie with strawberries, placing the pointed ends up.
- Dust the pie lightly with powdered sugar.
- For the graham cracker crust:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
- In a bowl, mix together 1.25 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 0.25 cup of sugar, and 0.33 cup of melted margarine or butter until thoroughly blended.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly onto the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie plate.
- Bake in the center of the oven for about 8 minutes, or until lightly browned. Allow to cool.
Variations
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free graham cracker crust or a different type of crust altogether.
- Experiment with different pudding flavors, such as chocolate or banana, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Add a layer of sliced bananas or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flavor and texture.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to chill the pudding mixture for at least 30 minutes before spreading it in the pie crust. This will help it set up and hold its shape.
- When arranging the strawberries on top of the pie, place them with the pointed ends up for a more visually appealing presentation.
- Dusting the pie with powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance to the finished dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Strawberry Pie is best served chilled, straight from the refrigerator. It pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Cooking Techniques
The key to making a successful Classic Strawberry Pie is to ensure that the pudding filling is properly chilled before spreading it in the pie crust. This will help the pie hold its shape and prevent the filling from becoming too runny.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have instant vanilla pudding mix, you can use a different flavor of pudding mix or make a homemade pudding from scratch.
- For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based milk alternative in place of skim milk.
- You can use a store-bought graham cracker crust instead of making your own from scratch.
Make Ahead Tips
Classic Strawberry Pie can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The pie will keep well for up to 2 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.
Presentation Ideas
To make your Classic Strawberry Pie even more visually appealing, consider arranging the strawberries in a decorative pattern on top of the pie. You can also garnish the pie with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Classic Strawberry Pie pairs well with a variety of beverages, such as iced tea, lemonade, or a glass of sparkling wine. It is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Classic Strawberry Pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. To reheat, simply remove the pie from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Classic Strawberry Pie contains approximately 250 calories. This calorie count may vary depending on the size of the slice and any additional toppings or garnishes.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Classic Strawberry Pie contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbohydrates come from the graham cracker crust and the pudding filling.
Fats
Each serving of Classic Strawberry Pie contains approximately 10 grams of fat. The fat content primarily comes from the margarine or butter in the graham cracker crust.
Proteins
Each serving of Classic Strawberry Pie contains approximately 2 grams of protein. The protein content is relatively low in this dessert.
Vitamins and minerals
Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. They also contain antioxidants that are beneficial for overall health.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (milk) and wheat (graham cracker crust) allergens. Be sure to check for any other potential allergens in the ingredients used.
Summary
Classic Strawberry Pie is a moderately high-carb and moderate-fat dessert with a low protein content. It is a sweet treat that is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Summary
Classic Strawberry Pie is a timeless dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy pudding filling, fresh strawberries, and sweet graham cracker crust, this pie is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy a slice of this delicious dessert today!
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a hot summer day and my dear friend Martha had invited me over for tea in her garden. As we sat sipping our tea and chatting, she brought out a beautiful strawberry pie that she had baked for us to enjoy.
The pie was a sight to behold - the bright red strawberries nestled in a golden flaky crust, topped with a dollop of whipped cream. I couldn't resist taking a bite, and as soon as I did, I knew I had to learn how to make this delicious dessert.
Martha laughed at my enthusiasm and graciously agreed to share her recipe with me. She explained that she had learned to make the pie from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The recipe was simple yet perfect in its execution, and Martha promised that if I followed it exactly, I would have a pie that rivaled hers.
I eagerly took notes as Martha recited the ingredients and instructions. The crust was made with flour, butter, and a touch of sugar, rolled out and pressed into a pie dish. The filling was a mixture of fresh strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch, cooked until thick and bubbly before being poured into the crust. The pie was then baked until the crust was golden brown and the filling set.
I couldn't wait to try making the pie for myself. As soon as I returned home, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. The process was surprisingly simple, and before long, the sweet aroma of strawberries and baked crust filled my home.
When the pie was finally finished and cooled, I cut myself a slice and took a bite. The flavors burst in my mouth - the sweetness of the strawberries, the buttery richness of the crust, the creamy whipped cream on top. It was a taste of summer in every bite.
I was so proud of my creation and couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends. They all marveled at the pie, asking me how I had managed to make something so delicious. I proudly told them about Martha and her grandmother's recipe, and how I had learned to make it myself.
From that day on, Classic Strawberry Pie became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for every special occasion and every gathering, delighting in the smiles and compliments of those who tasted it. It became a symbol of my love for baking and a tribute to the women who had passed down this recipe through the years.
As time went on, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations. Sometimes I would add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the filling for a tangy kick, or sprinkle crushed almonds on top for extra crunch. Each variation was met with excitement and praise from my loved ones, and I felt a sense of pride in carrying on the tradition of Classic Strawberry Pie.
Years passed, and I grew older, but my love for baking never wavered. I continued to make the pie for my family and friends, passing down the recipe to my own grandchildren. I taught them the importance of following tradition while also allowing room for creativity and innovation.
And so, Classic Strawberry Pie remains a beloved recipe in my family, a symbol of love, tradition, and the joy of sharing delicious food with those we hold dear. The recipe may have originated from Martha's grandmother, but it has become a part of my own story, a legacy that I am proud to pass down to future generations. And with every bite of that sweet, tangy pie, I am reminded of the power of food to bring us together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and soul.
Categories
| American Recipes | Berry Desserts | Pie Recipes | Strawberry Recipes | Vanilla Pudding Recipes |