As I walked through the vibrant farmers’ market, the intoxicating aroma of fresh strawberries drew me closer, beckoning me to create something special. Enter the Celeste Strawberry Pie Recipe—a delightful homage to the world of gaming that also captures the essence of summer in every airy, flaky bite. Not only is this dessert a breeze to whip up, but it also transforms those luscious berries into a sensational summer treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe promises to impress and satisfies the craving for a sweet yet refreshing indulgence. Ready to bring a touch of whimsy and a dollop of nostalgia to your kitchen? Let’s explore how to create this heavenly pie together!
Why is this pie a must-try?
Irresistible Flavors: The Celeste Strawberry Pie combines fresh strawberries with a hint of lemon, creating a burst of summer goodness in every slice.
Simple Steps: The recipe is easy to follow, perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers who want to whip up a dazzling dessert without fuss.
Stunning Presentation: The beautiful lattice crust not only elevates the pie’s appearance but also adds an enjoyable texture, making it a stunning centerpiece for any table.
Endless Versatility: You can easily mix and match with different berries or add a touch of creaminess by layering in cream cheese, giving you endless options to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This pie is sure to win hearts and smiles at gatherings, whether it’s a family picnic or a gaming night with friends. When served with a scoop of ice cream, it truly becomes an irresistible summer treat!
Celeste Strawberry Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the pie crust; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free option.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flakiness; use cold butter for the best texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the pie crust and filling; brown sugar can be substituted for a deeper flavor.
- Salt – Enhances flavor in the crust.
For the Filling
- Hulled Strawberries – The star ingredient contributing fresh, natural sweetness; opt for ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling; adjust based on the sweetness of your strawberries.
- Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent for the filling; arrowroot can be a suitable alternative.
- Lemon Juice – Adds acidity to balance the sweetness; fresh lemon juice is preferred for a bright flavor.
- Vanilla Extract – Provides added depth to the filling; use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the filling.
Enjoy crafting this Celeste Strawberry Pie recipe that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness, bringing the flavors of summer into your home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Celeste Strawberry Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Cut in ½ cup of cold, unsalted butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add 4-6 tablespoons of ice water, mixing until the dough holds together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Filling
While the dough chills, hull and slice 4 cups of fresh strawberries, placing them in a medium bowl. Sprinkle with ¾ cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, ¼ teaspoon of salt, the juice of 1 lemon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gently toss the strawberries until all ingredients are evenly coated, then let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to allow it to thicken.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, take one disc of dough and roll it out until it’s about 12 inches in diameter and ¼ inch thick. Carefully transfer the rolled dough into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges, and set the prepared crust aside to fill later.
Step 4: Fill the Pie
Pour the prepared strawberry filling into the crust, evenly distributing the juicy goodness. Ensure the berries are well arranged to create an appealing look. This Celeste Strawberry Pie is all about the vibrant filling, so don’t be shy about packing those strawberries in for a delightful presentation!
Step 5: Create the Lattice Top
Roll out the second dough disc on a floured surface to match the same thickness. Cut it into strips about ¾ inch wide. Lay half of the strips over the pie filling in one direction and then weave the remaining strips over and under the first set to form a lattice pattern. Crimp the edges together to seal the pie, and brush the top with an egg wash for a shiny, golden finish.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. You may need to cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and place it on a cooling rack to allow it to set before serving.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool for at least 1 hour to let the filling firm up, which helps avoid a runny slice. Then, slice into generous portions and serve at room temperature or chilled. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite!
What to Serve with Celeste Strawberry Pie
As summer beckons with its colorful bounty, pairing the perfect accompaniments will elevate your Celeste Strawberry Pie experience to new heights.
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Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this classic topping adds a creamy richness that complements the sweet-tart strawberries perfectly.
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Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: A cool, creamy contrast to the warm pie, creating an indulgent treat that feels like summer in every bite.
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Mint Salad: This refreshing mix of mint leaves and a drizzle of honey adds a pop of freshness, balancing the sweetness of the pie.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Bright and zesty, this drink mirrors the lemon notes in the pie while offering a thirst-quenching experience on hot days.
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Fruit Tart: Enjoy with another fruity dessert to keep the summer vibes flowing. Opt for berries or seasonal fruits for a delightful contrast.
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Peach Iced Tea: This fruity iced tea enhances the flavor profile, making for a delightful sip alongside a slice of pie.
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Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese provide a tangy contrast, adding an unexpected yet delightful twist.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle over each slice adds a luxurious touch, creating a harmony between the freshness of strawberries and the indulgence of chocolate.
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Gourmet Coffee: The rich flavors of good coffee accentuate the pie’s sweetness, perfect to serve at afternoon gatherings or dessert parties.
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Lemon Meringue Bars: For those who adore citrus desserts, these tangy treats keep the thematic flavors vibrant while adding an element of zest to your spread.
How to Store and Freeze Celeste Strawberry Pie
Refrigerator: Store the pie in an airtight container or loosely covered with plastic wrap for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled to maintain flavor and texture.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer warm pie, reheat individual slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore the flaky crust.
Serving Tip: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the thawed Celeste Strawberry Pie for a delightful dessert experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Celeste Strawberry Pie preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the pie crust up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients, forming the dough into discs, wrapping them tightly in plastic, and refrigerating. The strawberry filling can be prepped up to 3 days ahead; simply combine hulled strawberries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla, then refrigerate in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled crust, fill it with your lovingly prepared strawberries, and follow the final steps of creating the lattice top and baking. Trust me, your Celeste Strawberry Pie will be just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy a delightful summer dessert without the last-minute rush!
Expert Tips for Celeste Strawberry Pie
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Chill the Ingredients: Always use cold butter and ice water for the crust. This ensures a flaky and tender pie crust that melts in your mouth.
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Don’t Rush the Thicken: Allow the strawberry filling to sit for 5-10 minutes after mixing. This helps the cornstarch absorb moisture and reach the perfect consistency.
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Perfect Your Lattice: When creating the lattice top, keep the strips even in width and tension to avoid breaking. A well-made lattice will not only look stunning but also bake evenly.
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Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pie near the end of baking. If the crust edges are browning too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning while the filling continues to bubble.
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Let it Cool: Ensure you let the Celeste Strawberry Pie cool for at least 1 hour before slicing. This prevents the luscious filling from running out and keeps each slice intact.
Celeste Strawberry Pie Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious pie! Exploring different flavors and textures can lead to surprising and delightful results.
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Berry Medley: Combine strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a colorful twist. This mixed berry pie creates a sweet symphony of flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
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Creamy Base: Add a layer of cream cheese or whipped cream to the bottom of your crust for an indulgent creamy texture. This brings a rich depth to the dessert, marrying beautifully with the sweet strawberries.
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Balsamic Drizzle: Incorporate a teaspoon of balsamic reduction into the filling for a sophisticated touch. It enhances the sweetness of the strawberries with a warm, tangy twist that’s truly exquisite.
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Spiced Flavors: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the strawberry mixture for a warm, comforting flavor profile. It can evoke all the best memories of cozy desserts.
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Honey Sweetened: Swap out some or all of the granulated sugar for honey or maple syrup. This natural sweetener adds a lovely floral note, creating a unique character to the pie.
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Nutty Crust: Replace half the flour in your crust with ground almonds or pecans for a nutty flavor. This crust variation brings a delightful crunch and complements the filling beautifully.
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Citrus Zing: Mix in some orange or lime zest with the strawberry filling for a refreshing citrus kick. It brightens the flavor and takes it to a whole new level.
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Something Sneaky: For a fun twist, sneak in some finely chopped spinach or kale. It adds fiber and nutrients without altering the delicious taste, making it a crafty addition for health-conscious bakers.
Explore these variations and let your creativity shine! Speaking of creative flavors, have you considered trying a Pumpkin Pie Stuffed dessert for the fall season? Or perhaps some delicious Cinnamon Toasted Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal to brighten up your mornings? Let your kitchen adventures begin!
Celeste Strawberry Pie Recipe FAQs
What kind of strawberries should I use for the filling?
For the best flavor, always opt for fresh, ripe strawberries. Look for berries that are bright red, firm, and sweet-smelling. Avoid any with dark spots or signs of mold to ensure your Celeste Strawberry Pie features the vibrant taste of summer.
How do I store the pie properly?
You can store your Celeste Strawberry Pie in the refrigerator in an airtight container or loosely covered with plastic wrap for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its freshness and flavor. Just remember, don’t slice into it until you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I freeze the Celeste Strawberry Pie?
Absolutely! To freeze, first allow the pie to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Your pie can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What should I do if the filling is too runny?
If your filling turns out runny, next time try adding a bit more cornstarch to the mixture or allow it to rest longer after combining. If you’ve already baked it, you can try refrigerating the pie for a few hours before slicing it. This can help firm up the filling.
Is the Celeste Strawberry Pie suitable for those with allergies?
This recipe is vegetarian but does contain gluten and dairy due to the crust. If you have additional dietary considerations, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use dairy-free butter for a more inclusive dessert. Always check for any hidden allergens, especially in vanilla extract and any toppings you might use!
Celeste Strawberry Pie Recipe: Your Summer Slice of Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Cut in ½ cup of cold, unsalted butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add 4-6 tablespoons of ice water, mixing until the dough holds together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- While the dough chills, hull and slice 4 cups of fresh strawberries, placing them in a medium bowl. Sprinkle with ¾ cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, ¼ teaspoon of salt, the juice of 1 lemon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gently toss the strawberries until all ingredients are evenly coated, then let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to allow it to thicken.
- Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, take one disc of dough and roll it out until it’s about 12 inches in diameter and ¼ inch thick. Carefully transfer the rolled dough into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges, and set the prepared crust aside to fill later.
- Pour the prepared strawberry filling into the crust, evenly distributing the juicy goodness. Ensure the berries are well arranged to create an appealing look.
- Roll out the second dough disc on a floured surface to match the same thickness. Cut it into strips about ¾ inch wide, and lay half of the strips over the pie filling in one direction. Weave the remaining strips over and under the first set to form a lattice pattern. Crimp the edges together to seal the pie, and brush the top with an egg wash.
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and place it on a cooling rack.
- Allow the pie to cool for at least 1 hour to let the filling firm up, then slice into generous portions and serve at room temperature or chilled.
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