Strawberry Pie with Jello

Looking for an easy dessert this summer? This Strawberry Pie with Jello is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant red strawberries and sweet jello topping, this pie brings a refreshing taste to your table. Whether it’s a family gathering, picnic, or a simple weeknight dessert, this pie shines with its ease of preparation and fantastic flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: This recipe takes only 27 minutes in total, making it a perfect last-minute dessert option.
• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of ripe strawberries and strawberry jello offers a burst of summer flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it chilled for a refreshing summer treat, or warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: With 8 servings per pie, it’s ideal for parties and gatherings where you want to impress your guests.
• Easy to Customize: Add whipped cream or fresh mint as garnish for an extra touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Strawberry Pie with Jello, gather the right tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie dish
• Saucepan
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie dish: A sturdy pie dish ensures even baking of the crust and proper presentation.
• Saucepan: Use a medium saucepan to combine ingredients easily while allowing them to heat thoroughly.
• Mixing spoon: A good mixing spoon helps achieve an even mixture without clumping.

Ingredients

For the Pie

• 9 inch pie shell
• 4 cups strawberries (washed and hulled)
• 1 ½ cups water
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 ounces package strawberry Jell-O

How to Make Strawberry Pie with Jello

Step 1: Bake the Pie Shell

1. Preheat your oven according to the package directions for your pie shell.
2. Bake until golden brown, then let it cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

1. While the pie shell cools, wash and hull the strawberries.
2. Arrange them evenly in the cooled pie shell.

Step 3: Make the Jello Mixture

1. In a saucepan, combine 1 ½ cups water, ¾ cup sugar, and 2 tablespoons cornstarch.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat while stirring constantly. Cook for about two minutes until thickened.
3. Remove from heat, then add in the 3 ounces of strawberry Jell-O. Stir until fully dissolved.

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

1. Slowly pour the jello mixture over the arranged strawberries in the pie shell.
2. Place the pie in the refrigerator and chill until set, which usually takes about 4 hours.
3. Once set, cover and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Pie with Jello! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

How to Serve Strawberry Pie with Jello

Serving Strawberry Pie with Jello is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few creative touches. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a family gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert.

Classic Presentation

• Serve slices of pie on chilled plates to keep the dessert refreshing.
• Garnish each slice with whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.

Fruit Pairing

• Add fresh strawberries or mixed berries on the side for a colorful presentation.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the tartness of the pie.

Themed Serving

• Use festive plates during holidays or special occasions to enhance the visual appeal.
• Create a picnic-style spread by serving the pie alongside other summer treats.

Individual Servings

• Consider making mini strawberry pies in tart shells for individual servings.
• Use mason jars to layer pie ingredients for a fun and portable dessert.

How to Perfect Strawberry Pie with Jello

Creating the perfect Strawberry Pie with Jello involves careful attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out wonderfully every time.

• Choose ripe strawberries: Using fresh, ripe strawberries will enhance both the flavor and texture of your pie.
• Allow cooling time: Make sure the pie shell cools completely before adding the strawberries to prevent sogginess.
• Use cold water: For the Jell-O mixture, using cold water helps it set better and maintains a firm texture.
• Chill properly: Let the pie chill in the refrigerator long enough for it to set fully; this usually takes about 4 hours.
• Experiment with flavors: Try different flavors of Jell-O, like raspberry or peach, for unique twists on your classic recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Pie with Jello

Pairing your Strawberry Pie with Jello with delicious side dishes can enhance any meal. Here are some great options that complement this refreshing dessert nicely.

1. Grilled Chicken Salad: A light salad featuring grilled chicken, greens, and a vinaigrette provides a savory contrast.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a crunchy and sweet element that pairs well in summer meals.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes offer bright flavors that complement the sweetness of strawberry pie.
4. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad balances out fruity desserts while being hearty enough for gatherings.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity to contrast with the rich pie.
6. Watermelon Slices: Juicy watermelon is hydrating and refreshing, making it an ideal side for warm weather dining.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Strawberry Pie with Jello can be simple, but there are some common mistakes that can affect your final dessert. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the cooling step: Many people forget to cool the baked pie shell. This can lead to a soggy crust. Always allow your pie shell to cool completely before adding the strawberries.
• Overcooking the filling: Cooking the cornstarch mixture too long can make it too thick. Stick to the two minutes specified in the recipe for the best consistency.
• Using unripe strawberries: Using strawberries that are not fully ripe can lead to a less flavorful pie. Choose sweet, ripe strawberries for the best taste.
• Not chilling long enough: Failing to chill the pie long enough can result in a runny filling. Make sure to chill your pie until it is set properly before serving.
• Ignoring storage instructions: Improper storage can lead to loss of flavor or spoilage. Store your pie covered in the refrigerator and avoid keeping it out at room temperature for extended periods.

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep your Strawberry Pie with Jello covered in an airtight container.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Strawberry Pie with Jello

• If you want to freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 months for quality flavor and texture.

Reheating Strawberry Pie with Jello

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and warm it for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds until just warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for 5-7 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Strawberry Pie with Jello?

Strawberry Pie with Jello is a delightful dessert made by combining fresh strawberries with a sweet jello-based filling, all set in a flaky pie crust.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries; however, they should be thawed and drained well before use so that excess liquid does not affect the filling’s consistency.

How long does it take for Strawberry Pie with Jello to set?

Typically, it takes about 2-4 hours in the refrigerator for your pie to set properly after pouring over the strawberries.

Can I customize my Strawberry Pie with Jello?

Absolutely! You can add other berries or even mix in some lemon juice for an extra zing. Feel free to experiment with flavors!

Is there a no-bake version of this recipe?

Yes! You can create a no-bake version by using a pre-made graham cracker crust and simply chilling everything together without baking any crust.

Final Thoughts

This easy Strawberry Pie with Jello recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or family desserts. Its refreshing taste and vibrant color make it appealing to all ages. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to customize it by adding other fruits or changing up the crust. Give this delightful dessert a try; you won’t be disappointed!