Are you craving a slice of sweet, juicy strawberry pie that tastes just like Grandma's? Forget those store-bought versions – this recipe captures the essence of a classic Bob Evans strawberry pie, bringing the comforting flavors of home straight to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for both beginner bakers and experienced cooks looking for a delicious, homemade dessert. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful treat! This recipe offers a simple approach to creating a truly delectable pie, making it an ideal addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ¼ cup ice water
For the Filling:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping (optional):
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
Instructions:
Making the Crust:
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Cut in butter: Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add water: Gradually add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing lightly until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix.
- Chill the dough: Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll and bake: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Making the Strawberry Filling:
- Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice.
- Cook the filling: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the filling has thickened.
- Stir in vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Assembling the Pie:
- Pour filling: Pour the cooled strawberry filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is set.
- Serve: Garnish with whipped cream and fresh strawberries before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade Bob Evans-inspired strawberry pie!
Tips for Success:
- Use ripe strawberries: The flavor of your pie will be directly impacted by the quality of your strawberries. Choose ripe, but not overripe, berries.
- Don't overbake the crust: Overbaking can lead to a tough crust. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the oven as soon as it's lightly golden.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the pie to chill for several hours ensures that the filling sets properly and the flavors meld together beautifully.
Variations:
- Add a touch of spice: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for a warm, comforting twist.
- Use a different crust: Feel free to experiment with a store-bought crust or even a graham cracker crust for a unique flavor profile.
- Make it a crumble pie: Instead of a traditional crust, top the filling with a buttery crumble topping for a rustic and delicious variation.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: 350-400
- Fat: 15-20g
- Sugar: 30-40g
This delicious recipe offers a healthy balance of sweet and tart flavors, making it a satisfying dessert option. Remember that nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This recipe provides a framework for a truly satisfying homemade pie experience, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking efforts! This easy recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic addition to your best recipes collection.