A Slice of Americana
For those who have experienced the joy of dining at a Big Boy restaurant, the mere mention of their Fresh Strawberry Pie conjures up images of a classic American dessert. Unfortunately, not everyone has the luxury of visiting a Big Boy establishment to savor this iconic treat. Fear not, as we bring the essence of Big Boy's kitchen into your home with an easy-to-follow recipe that promises the same delectable taste.
Ingredients for the Perfect Pie
Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 ounces butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling:
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring
- 1 liter fresh strawberries, cleaned, hulled, and patted dry
- 1 liter whipped cream, for garnishing
Crafting Your Masterpiece
Preparing the Crust:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine flour, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Blend until the mixture achieves a consistent texture.
3. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
4. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until the crust turns a light golden hue. Allow it to cool completely before proceeding.
Creating the Filling:
1. In a small saucepan, mix water, sugar, salt, cornstarch, and food coloring. Place over medium heat.
2. Stir the mixture continuously until it thickens, which should take about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. Once the crust is ready, arrange the strawberries atop the crust and drizzle the cooled glaze over them.
4. Chill the pie in the refrigerator until the glaze firms up.
The Grand Finale
To serve, cut a generous slice and top it with a lavish swirl of whipped cream. This Big Boy's Fresh Strawberry Pie is more than just a dessert; it's a celebration of timeless flavors that resonate with the heart of American cuisine.
Enjoy the burst of fresh strawberries enveloped in a sweet glaze, all nestled within a buttery, flaky crust. It's a symphony of textures and tastes that pays homage to the original Big Boy classic. So go ahead, take a bite, and let nostalgia take over.