Step-by-Step Directions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pie will bake evenly and develop a golden, crispy crust.
2. Prepare the Strawberry Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture until the strawberries are well coated and the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Roll Out the Pie Crusts
Unroll the refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll each crust into a rectangle that will fit the dimensions of your baking sheet. One crust will serve as the base, while the other will be used to cover the filling.
4. Assemble the Pie
Place one of the rolled-out crusts on the prepared baking sheet. Carefully spoon the strawberry filling onto the crust, spreading it evenly and leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Cover the filling with the second crust, gently pressing the edges together to seal the pie. You can use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
5. Apply the Egg Wash
Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg, ensuring an even coat that will help create a beautiful golden color when baked. Sprinkle the coarse sugar over the egg wash for added sweetness and texture.
6. Cut Slits for Ventilation
Using a sharp knife or a pie cutter, make a few slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. This step is crucial for preventing the pie from becoming soggy.
7. Bake the Pie
Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with strips of aluminum foil to prevent burning.
8. Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This cooling period allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Serving Suggestions
The Easy Strawberry Slab Pie is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience with a few accompaniments:
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a rich, creamy contrast to the tangy strawberries.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm slices of pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- Strawberry Sauce: Drizzle homemade strawberry sauce over the pie for an extra burst of flavor.
Drink Pairings
- Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea complements the sweetness of the pie.
- Sparkling Wine: For an adult gathering, pair the pie with a light, sparkling wine or champagne.
- Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy pie.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Strawberry Slab Pie
Choose the Right Strawberries
For the best flavor, select fresh, ripe strawberries. Look for berries that are bright red, firm, and free from blemishes. The fresher the strawberries, the sweeter and more flavorful your pie will be.
Keep the Dough Cold
When working with pie crust, it’s essential to keep it cold to prevent it from becoming too sticky or difficult to handle. If the dough becomes too warm, place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes before continuing.
Make Ahead Option
You can prepare the pie crust and filling a day in advance. Store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator and keep the rolled-out crusts covered in plastic wrap until you’re ready to assemble the pie.
Crust Variations
- Homemade Crust: If you have time, try making a homemade pie crust for a more authentic taste.
- Lattice Crust: Instead of a solid top crust, create a lattice pattern with strips of dough for a decorative finish.
- Crumble Topping: Swap the top crust for a crumble topping made with butter, flour, sugar, and oats for added texture.
Gluten-Free Option
To make this pie gluten-free, use a gluten-free pie crust available in most grocery stores or make your own using gluten-free flour. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be rare given how delicious this pie is), here’s how to store and reheat them:
Storing
- Refrigerator: Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Oven: To reheat the pie, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: For a quicker option, use the microwave, but be cautious as it might soften the crust. Heat in short bursts until the pie is warm.