Perfect Strawberry Pie

The Ultimate No-Bake Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe for Summer

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with our incredibly easy and utterly delicious **no-bake strawberry pie**. This classic dessert, featuring an irresistible fresh strawberry filling made with a hint of gelatin for perfect setting, is a true crowd-pleaser. Topped with a generous dollop of fluffy whipped cream, each slice offers a delightful burst of sweet, ripe berry goodness. Forget complicated baking; this simple recipe brings the joy of homemade pie to your table with minimal effort, making it the ideal treat for any warm-weather gathering or a simple family dinner. It’s the perfect way to celebrate **strawberry season** and enjoy a **fresh strawberry pie** with very little fuss.

Slice of strawberry pie topped with whipped cream.

This **no bake Strawberry Pie** is truly a summertime staple, requiring minimal work but delivering maximum flavor. Everyone looks forward to fresh strawberry season, and this old-fashioned **Strawberry Pie Recipe** captures the essence of those perfect berries. Each slice is wonderfully sweet, refreshing, and simply delicious. With only a few basic ingredients, this **easy strawberry pie** is super simple to assemble, allowing you more time to enjoy the sunshine. During the peak of strawberry season, we also love making other delightful desserts like this Strawberry Trifle, Strawberry Shortcake Roll, Strawberry Pretzel Dessert and this Strawberry Angel Food Cake Recipe for truly Easy Summer Desserts. For another fun summer pie experience, don’t miss our Margarita Pie.

Table of contents

  • Why we love this Strawberry Pie recipe
  • Ingredients for Your Delicious Strawberry Pie
  • Variations and Substitutions to Customize Your Pie
  • How to Make Strawberry Pie: Step-by-Step Guide
  • Serving Suggestions for Perfect Presentation
  • Storage Tips to Keep Your Pie Fresh
  • Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Pie
  • More Easy Pie Recipes to Try

Why We Love This Easy No-Bake Strawberry Pie Recipe

  • Perfect for any occasion. This fresh strawberry pie is a versatile dessert that shines at barbecues, picnics, potlucks, or as a sweet ending to a family meal. Its vibrant color and refreshing taste make it a delightful addition to any celebration, particularly throughout the warmer months. It’s also easy to transport, making it a favorite for sharing with friends and family.
  • It’s easy to make. You absolutely do not need to be an experienced baker to master this luscious pie. The “no-bake” aspect of the filling simplifies the process significantly, cutting down on preparation time and stress. With straightforward steps and minimal cooking required, even beginners can achieve a show-stopping dessert that tastes like it came from a professional pastry shop. It’s truly a beginner-friendly **strawberry jello pie**!
  • Pantry Ingredients. Most of the ingredients needed for this delightful **homemade strawberry pie** are likely already in your pantry or readily available at any grocery store. Utilizing common staples like sugar, cornstarch, and gelatin, alongside fresh seasonal strawberries, makes this recipe not only simple but also incredibly inexpensive to prepare, offering fantastic value for such a beautiful and flavorful dessert.

Ingredients for Your Delicious Strawberry Pie

Ingredients for strawberry pie - pie crust, strawberries, sugar, gelatin, cornstarch, whipped cream.
  • Pre-made Pie Crust. While a store-bought, pre-baked 9-inch pie crust offers ultimate convenience, don’t hesitate to elevate your pie with a homemade version. Our 3 Ingredient Pie Crust Recipe is a fantastic, easy substitution if you prefer to bake from scratch. For an extra layer of flavor and a true no-bake experience, consider using a graham cracker crust or even a crushed shortbread cookie crust.
  • Fresh Strawberries. The heart of this pie lies in the quality of its berries. For the best flavor and texture, it is imperative to use *fresh, ripe strawberries*. Frozen berries contain excess moisture that can lead to a watery filling and compromise the pie’s set and overall taste. Look for bright red, plump strawberries that smell sweet and have no white around the stem, indicating they were picked at their peak ripeness.
  • Cornstarch. This humble ingredient is key to achieving the perfect thickened consistency for your strawberry pie filling. It works with the sugar and water to create a glossy, stable base that holds the fresh strawberries beautifully in place. Ensure it is fully dissolved to avoid lumps in your filling.
  • Granulated Sugar. Sweetness is essential for balancing the tartness of the strawberries and the jello. Adjust the amount slightly based on the natural sweetness of your berries and personal preference, though the recipe provides a well-balanced base for a delightfully sweet **strawberry pie**.
  • Strawberry Jello. The secret to this pie’s effortless setting and vibrant color! A standard 3-ounce packet of strawberry jello contributes to the firm, jelly-like texture that makes this a quintessential **no-bake pie**. It also enhances the natural strawberry flavor, creating a cohesive and mouthwatering filling.
  • Water. Used to dissolve the sugar, cornstarch, and jello, forming the liquid base for the filling.
  • Whipped Cream. The crowning glory! Whether you opt for store-bought aerosol whipped cream for speed or whip up a batch of our Homemade Whipped Cream Recipe for superior flavor and texture, a cloud of creamy topping is non-negotiable. Homemade whipped cream, with its fresh dairy taste and customizable sweetness, truly elevates this pie to a gourmet level.

The complete ingredient list with precise measurements can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of the page.

Variations and Substitutions to Customize Your Pie

One of the joys of this **easy strawberry pie recipe** is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste or dietary needs:

  • Pie Crust Recipe. Beyond traditional pastry crusts, a graham cracker crust is a superb no bake alternative, adding a delightful crunch and honeyed flavor that pairs wonderfully with strawberries. It’s incredibly easy to make from scratch by crushing graham crackers and mixing them with melted butter, then pressing into your pie pan. You could also experiment with other cookie crusts, such as vanilla wafer crumbs or crushed shortbread cookies, for different flavor profiles and textures.
  • Sugar free jello. For those managing sugar intake or looking for a lighter option, feel free to substitute a sugar-free strawberry gelatin mix in this recipe. The pie will still set beautifully and deliver a delicious, guilt-free treat. Be sure to check the package instructions for any slight variations in preparation for sugar-free products.
  • Other fruit. This versatile pie recipe can be adapted for a variety of fresh fruits, making it a fantastic dessert all summer long!
    • Peaches: Simply substitute fresh sliced peaches for the strawberries and use peach-flavored jello for a delightful peach pie.
    • Mixed Berries: Combine blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries with strawberries for a berry medley, or use a single type of berry. For mixed berries, a raspberry or cherry jello can complement the flavors beautifully. Always ensure the fruit is fresh and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.
    • Citrus Zest: For a brighter, more aromatic filling, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the strawberry mixture before pouring it into the crust. This subtle addition can significantly lift the overall flavor profile and add a refreshing zing.
  • Different Jello Flavors. While strawberry jello naturally enhances the strawberry flavor, don’t be afraid to experiment with other jello flavors. Raspberry jello could be used for a more complex berry note, or even cherry jello for a richer, deeper color and taste that still complements the fresh strawberries.

How to Make Strawberry Pie: Step-by-Step Guide

Crafting this delicious **homemade strawberry pie** is incredibly simple. Follow these detailed steps for a perfect result every time:

Pie Crust in pie plate.

Step 1. Begin by baking your chosen 9-inch pie crust (whether store-bought or homemade) according to the package instructions. Aim for a beautiful golden-brown finish, which ensures a crisp texture that won’t become soggy when filled. Once baked, transfer the hot pie crust to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely to room temperature. This cooling step is crucial; pouring a warm filling into a warm crust can result in a less firm set and a potentially soggy bottom.

Strawberries in pie crust.

Step 2. While your crust cools, prepare the star ingredient: the fresh strawberries. Wash them thoroughly under cool running water, then hull them by removing the green leafy tops and the small white core. You can slice the berries into uniform pieces for a more elegant presentation, or simply cut them in half if you prefer larger, more rustic chunks. Arrange the prepared strawberries evenly in the cooled pie crust in a pie pan or pie dish, ensuring they form a beautiful layer that will be encased by the jello filling.

Sugar and cornstarch in saucepan.

Step 3. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and cornstarch. Whisk them together thoroughly before adding the water to prevent lumps. Gradually add the 1 ½ cups of water, stirring continuously until smooth. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a low boil, stirring constantly. Continue to cook for approximately 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture visibly thickens to a consistency similar to a light syrup. This thickening action is vital for the pie’s stability and ensures your **strawberry pie filling** sets perfectly.

Gelatin added to mixture and combined in saucepan.

Step 4. Once the mixture has thickened to your satisfaction, remove the saucepan from the heat immediately. Swiftly add the 3-ounce packet of strawberry gelatin mix. Whisk vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the gelatin powder is completely dissolved and no granules remain. The residual heat from the cooked mixture will help dissolve the jello, creating a smooth, vibrant filling base.

Strawberry filling poured into pie crust.

Step 5. Let the prepared jello mixture cool for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This brief cooling period helps to prevent the hot liquid from “cooking” the fresh strawberries and ensures a better set. Once slightly cooled, carefully pour the strawberry mixture over the arranged fresh strawberries in the pie shell. Gently spread the mixture to ensure all berries are coated and evenly distributed. Transfer the pie to the refrigerator and chill for about 3 to 4 hours for the strawberry filling to completely set and become firm to the touch.

Slice of pie on plate topped with whipped cream.

Step 6. Once thoroughly chilled and set, your **homemade strawberry pie** is ready to be enjoyed! For the best presentation and flavor, top each individual slice with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream just before serving. This ensures the whipped cream remains firm and appealing. Enjoy this delightful summer treat!

Slice of strawberry pie topped with whipped cream.

Serving Suggestions for Perfect Presentation

Elevate your **strawberry pie** experience with these delightful serving suggestions. The classic topping of freshly whipped cream is always a winner; its airy texture and subtle sweetness perfectly complement the rich berry filling. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish each slice with a few whole fresh strawberries, some extra berry slices, or a sprig of fresh mint. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a beautiful finish, especially if you’re serving it for a special occasion. Consider pairing a slice with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a warm-weather indulgence, or a drizzle of a homemade fruit coulis. We typically prefer to add whipped cream to individual servings rather than topping the entire pie at once. This approach keeps the whipped cream fresh and prevents it from weeping or dissolving, making storage of any leftovers much simpler and ensuring each slice looks perfect and tastes its best.

Storage Tips to Keep Your Pie Fresh

Proper storage is key to enjoying your **strawberry pie** for as long as possible. Leftovers should be covered tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 4-5 days. Ensure the covering is airtight to prevent the pie from drying out, keep it fresh, and, importantly, prevent it from absorbing any unwanted flavors from other foods in your refrigerator. This simple step ensures your pie tastes as good on day three as it did on day one. It’s important to note that the pie crust will naturally soften the longer it sits in the fridge due to moisture from the filling; this is normal for fresh fruit pies, especially a **strawberry jello pie**. We do not recommend freezing this particular pie. The texture of the jello mixture, which is integral to the pie’s structure, will change once frozen and thawed, becoming less firm and potentially watery, significantly compromising the overall quality and enjoyment of your delicious **fresh strawberry pie**.

Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Pie

What is in Strawberry Pie filling?

This luscious **strawberry pie filling** is made from a combination of simple yet effective ingredients: fresh, ripe strawberries, water, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and strawberry-flavored gelatin (jello). The cornstarch plays a crucial role as a thickening agent, working with the heat to create a smooth, glossy base, while the jello helps the entire filling set firm and gives it that signature vibrant color and delightful wobble. It’s a truly simple yet effective combination for a perfect **jello pie**.

Do you need to cover the pie?

Absolutely, covering the pie is highly recommended when refrigerating leftovers. Wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil will protect the pie from drying out, keep it fresh, and, importantly, prevent it from absorbing any unwanted flavors from other foods in your refrigerator. This simple step ensures your pie tastes as good on day three as it did on day one, maintaining its optimal flavor and texture.

Why is my pie filling watery?

A watery pie filling is a common issue that can usually be traced back to a couple of factors. Firstly, if the cornstarch and sugar mixture was not brought to a low boil for long enough, or not stirred sufficiently during the cooking process, it may not have thickened properly. Secondly, not allowing the filling to cool adequately before pouring it over the strawberries, or not chilling the pie for the recommended 3-4 hours, can also lead to a softer, less set consistency. For best results, follow the cooking and chilling times precisely. As mentioned in another FAQ, using frozen strawberries can also introduce excess moisture, resulting in a runny filling.

Can you use frozen strawberries?

No, for this specific **fresh strawberry pie recipe**, we strongly advise against using frozen berries. Frozen strawberries release a significant amount of excess moisture as they thaw, which will make your pie filling runny and prevent it from setting correctly. This extra water can dilute the flavor and alter the texture, resulting in a less appealing dessert. Fresh, in-season strawberries are truly essential for the success and superior taste of this **no-bake strawberry pie**.

How to choose the best berries?

Selecting the finest fresh strawberries is paramount for a truly outstanding pie. Look for berries that are bright red all over, plump, and have a wonderfully sweet fragrance. Avoid any berries that have white areas around the stem, as this indicates they were picked before reaching peak ripeness, resulting in a less flavorful and potentially more tart pie. Choosing in-season, locally grown strawberries often yields the best results, as they are at their freshest and most flavorful, ensuring the best possible **strawberry pie**.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, this **no-bake strawberry pie** is an excellent dessert to prepare in advance! It requires a minimum of 3-4 hours to chill and set properly, making it perfect for making the morning of an event or even the night before. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the filling is perfectly firm when sliced, freeing you up to focus on other preparations closer to serving time. Just remember to add the whipped cream topping just before serving to maintain its freshness and appearance.

What kind of pie plate is best?

A standard 9-inch pie plate works perfectly for this recipe. Glass, ceramic, or metal pie plates are all suitable. If using a glass pie plate, it often allows for better observation of the crust browning during the baking step (if you’re using a baked crust). Ensure your pie plate is deep enough to hold all the fresh strawberries and the jello filling without overflowing, which is typically a standard size for most pie recipes.

Strawberry pie ready to serve.

More Easy Pie Recipes to Try

If you loved this **easy strawberry pie**, you’ll surely enjoy these other simple and delicious pie recipes:

  • No Bake Hershey Pie
  • Salted Caramel Apple Pie
  • Easy Key Lime Pie Recipe
  • Arkansas Possum pie recipe
  • Apple Blueberry Pie

Make this fresh **Strawberry Pie Recipe** today for your family and see how easy and tasty it is. It’s truly a perfect **summer dessert**. Don’t forget to leave a star recipe rating and comment to share your experience!

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No-Bake Fresh Strawberry Pie

5 from 4 votes
This **No-Bake Fresh Strawberry Pie** is an incredibly delicious and easy dessert, perfect for celebrating strawberry season. Made with fresh, ripe berries and a simple jello filling, it’s topped with a cloud of creamy whipped cream for an irresistible treat.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 25 minutes
Servings 12
Cuisine American
Course Dessert
Calories 261
Author Carrie Barnard

Ingredients

  • 1 Pre-made Pie Crust 9 inches, baked and cooled
  • 4 cups Fresh Strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 2 Tablespoons Cornstarch
  • 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 pkg Strawberry Jello 3 ounces
  • 1 1/2 cup Water
  • Whipped Cream for serving, homemade or store-bought
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Instructions

  • Bake the pie crust based on the package instructions until golden brown. Let it cool completely on a wire rack before proceeding.
  • Clean and slice the fresh strawberries. Then, carefully arrange them evenly in the cooled pie crust.
  • In a medium saucepan, stir together the water, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Bring the mixture to a low boil over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it visibly thickens.
  • Remove the pan from the heat and immediately add the 3-ounce packet of strawberry Jello mix. Whisk vigorously until the gelatin mixture is completely dissolved and smooth.
  • Allow the jello mixture to cool for 10-15 minutes at room temperature. Then, carefully pour the slightly cooled mixture over the arranged strawberries in the pie crust.
  • Chill the pie in the refrigerator for approximately 3-4 hours, or until the strawberry jello filling is completely set and firm to the touch.
  • Once fully chilled and set, the pie is ready to serve. Top each slice with a generous dollop of whipped cream just before enjoying!

Nutrition Facts

Calories 261kcal, Carbohydrates 28g, Protein 12g, Fat 11g, Saturated Fat 4g, Polyunsaturated Fat 2g, Monounsaturated Fat 5g, Trans Fat 0.03g, Cholesterol 301mg, Sodium 208mg, Potassium 126mg, Fiber 0.4g, Sugar 19g, Vitamin A 438IU, Calcium 49mg, Iron 2mg

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