Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie Recipe

If you are searching for a delightful homemade treat that bursts with fresh fruit flavor and boasts a charming, homemade appearance, this Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. This pie perfectly captures the essence of summer with juicy, sweet strawberries nestled inside a flaky, buttery crust that is both simple and elegant. Every bite offers a balance of textures and tastes that feel cozy, satisfying, and straight from the heart of a country kitchen. It’s the kind of pie that invites friends and family to gather round, promising warm smiles and happy memories with each slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie Recipe is refreshingly straightforward. Each component plays a crucial role — the flour and butter create a tender, flaky crust, while the fresh strawberries provide vibrant color and natural sweetness, all enhanced by a touch of lemon and vanilla for depth.

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for your flaky, tender crust.
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the crust.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors in both crust and filling.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed: Creates the irresistible flakiness of the pastry.
• 6 – 8 tbsp ice water: Helps bring the dough together without toughening it.
• 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved: The star of the show — juicy and fragrant.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling just right, adjustable depending on berry sweetness.
• 3 tbsp corn starch: Thickens the filling to a perfect consistency.
• 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens and balances the natural sweetness of strawberries.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic layer of flavor.
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces: Dotting the filling helps enrich the texture.
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Gives the crust a beautiful golden shine.
• 1 tbsp turbinado sugar (optional, for topping): Creates a crunchy, sparkling finish on the crust.

How to Make Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough

Start by whisking together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a large bowl. This dry mixture lays the groundwork for your pie crust.

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

Add the chilled, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend it into the flour mixture. You want to achieve a coarse crumb texture — these uneven pieces of butter will create that flaky crust magic when baked.

Step 3: Add Ice Water Gradually

Slowly pour in ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough just starts to cling together. The key is to keep the dough cold and avoid overworking it so the crust stays tender.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Divide your dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic wrap tightly, and pop them in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This resting period lets the gluten relax and solidifies the butter for perfect texture.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to go once your pie is assembled.

Step 6: Mix the Strawberry Filling

In a large bowl, combine your fresh halved strawberries with sugar, corn starch, lemon juice, and vanilla. Toss gently until every berry is coated — this mixture will thicken beautifully while baking.

Step 7: Roll Out Bottom Crust

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough until it fits your pie pan comfortably. Carefully transfer it to the pan and gently press it into place.

Step 8: Add Filling and Butter Dots

Pour the luscious strawberry filling evenly over the crust and scatter small pieces of butter on top. These buttery pockets will melt into the filling, enriching every bite.

Step 9: Add Top Crust

Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the filling. Trim the edges, then crimp them together to seal in all the deliciousness.

Step 10: Vent the Pie

Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking, which keeps the crust crisp and the filling bubbly.

Step 11: Egg Wash and Sugar Topping

Brush the pie crust with beaten egg to give it a stunning, golden glaze, then sprinkle turbinado sugar on top for a little sparkling crunch.

Step 12: Bake

Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 45-55 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling irresistibly.

Step 13: Cool Before Serving

Let the pie cool on a wire rack, allowing the filling to set so every slice holds together with delightful juiciness.

How to Serve Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream instantly enhances this Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie Recipe. You can also add fresh mint leaves or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to make the presentation pop and complement the flavors.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs beautifully with light and refreshing sides like a crisp green salad or a chilled glass of sparkling lemonade. Its sweetness balances nicely with something crisp and fresh for a wonderful dessert course.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve slices of the pie in petite ramekins or tartlet pans for individual servings. You can even drizzle warm chocolate or a berry coulis over each slice to elevate the rustic charm to a party-ready dessert sensation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After serving, cover any leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days to keep the crust crisp and the filling fresh.

Freezing

This Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie Recipe freezes well before baking. Wrap the assembled pie in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed.

Reheating

To enjoy warm pie, reheat slices in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method restores the flaky crust and revives the juicy strawberries deliciously.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this pie?

While fresh strawberries are ideal for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen berries if fresh aren’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid an overly watery filling.

What can I substitute for corn starch in the filling?

If you don’t have corn starch, you can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as a thickener. They work similarly to give the filling that perfect, jelly-like consistency.

Is there a way to make the crust healthier?

You can experiment with whole wheat flour or reduce sugar slightly in the crust, but keep in mind that it might affect the texture and tenderness that make this Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie Recipe so special.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?

Using chilled butter and ice water in the dough helps create a firm crust. Also, baking on a lower oven rack and using a baking sheet catches drips and encourages even baking to keep the bottom crust crisp.

Can I make mini rustic strawberry pies?

Absolutely! This recipe scales down beautifully. Use small tart pans or ramekins for personal-sized pies that are perfect for parties or when you want a sweet treat all to yourself.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Rustic Sweet Baked Strawberry Pie Recipe a try soon because it’s one of those timeless desserts that brings warmth and joy with every bite. Its simplicity combined with rich, fresh flavors makes it a standout in any dessert lineup. Once you taste that flaky crust and juicy strawberry filling, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again, eager to share the sweetness with those you love.

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