Strawberry Pie No Bake

This vibrant no-bake strawberry pie transforms fresh berries into a stunning dessert that never fails to impress guests at summer gatherings. The glossy, jewel-like filling showcases nature's candy in all its glory while requiring minimal effort from you.

I first made this strawberry pie for a Memorial Day barbecue when the temperature unexpectedly hit 90 degrees. Refusing to turn on my oven, this no-bake solution saved the day and has since become my signature warm-weather dessert that friends specifically request when strawberries hit their peak season.

Ingredients

• Fresh strawberries: the star of the show choose the ripest berries with vibrant red color and sweet fragrance
• Granulated sugar: provides sweetness and helps create the syrupy gel
• Water: thins the mixture to achieve the perfect consistency
• Strawberry Jello: adds color and sets the filling avoid sugar-free varieties as they set differently
• Cornstarch: the crucial thickening agent that gives structure to your filling
• Graham cracker crust: offers a sweet buttery base that complements the berries perfectly
• Cool Whip: topping adds a creamy contrast to the bright berry filling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create the Jello Base:

Combine the cornstarch and water in a saucepan whisking until completely smooth with no lumps. Add the sugar and strawberry Jello powder stirring to combine. Place over medium heat and bring to a full rolling boil stirring constantly for exactly one minute to activate the cornstarch. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool for 10 minutes but not longer as it will begin to set.

Prepare the Strawberries:

While the Jello mixture cools wash and hull your strawberries thoroughly. Cut larger berries into quarters and smaller ones in half aiming for bite-sized pieces that will distribute evenly throughout the pie. Place the cut berries in a large mixing bowl ensuring they're completely dry to prevent watering down the filling.

Combine and Fill:

Pour the slightly cooled Jello mixture over the prepared strawberries gently folding until each berry is completely coated with the shiny gel. Work quickly but carefully to avoid breaking the berries. Transfer the mixture into your graham cracker crust mounding the berries slightly in the center for an impressive presentation.

Chill and Set:

Place the assembled pie in the refrigerator uncovered for about 2 hours or until the filling is completely set. Once set cover loosely with plastic wrap to prevent the pie from absorbing refrigerator odors. Serve with generous dollops of Cool Whip for the perfect creamy counterpoint to the sweet berries.

Save This

Strawberry pie reminds me of summer visits to my grandmother's house where she would make this with berries we picked ourselves from her garden. The anticipation of waiting for it to set in the refrigerator was almost unbearable as a child and that first bite of cold sweet strawberry goodness remains one of my most vivid food memories.

Storage Tips

For the freshest results consume your strawberry pie within 2 days as the crust will eventually begin to soften. Always store covered in the refrigerator to preserve the vibrant color and prevent the filling from drying out or forming a skin. This pie does not freeze well as the berries will become mushy and release too much liquid upon thawing changing the texture dramatically.

Customization Options

While strawberries are the classic choice for this pie the same technique works beautifully with raspberries blackberries or even a mixed berry combination. Simply substitute the corresponding Jello flavor to match your fruit choice. For a more sophisticated version substitute a splash of Grand Marnier or Chambord liqueur for a tablespoon of the water in the Jello mixture giving the pie a subtle complexity that adults will appreciate.

Serving Suggestions

This pie shines as the centerpiece of a spring or summer dessert table but can be elevated with a few simple accompaniments. Serve alongside a small pitcher of slightly sweetened fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip for a more gourmet approach. A light dusting of grated white chocolate or a few mint leaves adds visual appeal and complementary flavors. For a complete strawberry experience pair slices with glasses of chilled prosecco or champagne.

Common Queries

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but frozen strawberries can be used if thawed and drained properly.

→ How long should this pie chill before serving?

Allow the pie to chill in the refrigerator for about 2 hours or until the Jello fully sets.

→ Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of a graham cracker crust?

You can substitute the graham cracker crust with a pre-made pastry crust, cookie crust, or even a chocolate crust for a different flavor profile.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness for up to 3 days.