The Best Fresh Strawberry Pie

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• ½ cup (1 stick) butter, softened
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

• 2 cups water
• 2 cups sugar
• 6 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 (6 oz.) package strawberry Jell-O
• 3 quarts fresh strawberries, cleaned and de-stemmed

Note: If using a shallow pie plate, cut the filling recipe in half.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, and flour until a smooth dough forms.
2. Press into Pie Plate: Grease a deep pie plate and press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides.
3. Bake the Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

4. Boil the Mixture: In a saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and cornstarch. Stir over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens to a clear consistency.
5. Add Jell-O: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the strawberry Jell-O until completely dissolved. Allow it to cool slightly.
6. Fold in Strawberries: Once the Jell-O mixture has cooled, gently fold in the cleaned and de-stemmed strawberries, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

7. Pour Filling: Carefully pour the strawberry filling into the cooled pie crust, spreading it evenly.
8. Chill: Place the pie in the refrigerator and allow it to set for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is firm.

Step 4: Serve

9. Garnish: Serve chilled with a generous dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.