Strawberry Cream Pie To Die For Recipe

Ingredients

Pie Crust

Pie crust is a fundamental component of many desserts, including the show-stopping Strawberry Cream Pie to Die for. To create an exceptional pie crust, one must select high-quality ingredients that will contribute to its flavor and texture.

The primary ingredient in pie crust is flour. All-purpose flour is a common choice due to its balanced protein content and versatility. However, other types of flour, such as bread flour or pastry flour, may also be used depending on the desired characteristics of the finished crust.

Shortening or butter is another essential component of pie crust. Shortening adds a flaky texture and tenderness, while butter contributes a richer flavor and deeper color. Some bakers prefer to use a combination of both shortening and butter for optimal results.

Salt enhances the flavors in the pie crust, but it’s used sparingly due to its intense character. Bakers can also choose between different types of salt, such as kosher salt or sea salt, depending on their preference.

Eggs are another common addition to pie crust, particularly in traditional recipes like this Strawberry Cream Pie to Die for. Eggs help bind the dough together and contribute moisture.

Water is necessary to hydrate the flour and create a workable dough, but bakers should use cold water to prevent the butter or shortening from melting and compromising the texture of the crust.

Vanilla extract adds a subtle yet distinctive flavor to the pie crust. This ingredient can be omitted if desired, but it pairs well with sweet fillings like strawberries and cream.

1 1/2 cups allpurpose flour

All-purpose flour is a fundamental ingredient in baking, and its presence in the Strawberry Cream Pie to Die for Recipe is crucial for achieving the desired texture and structure in the pastry crust.

In this recipe, 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour are used to create a flaky, tender, and crumbly pie crust that will hold up well to the creamy strawberry filling.

All-purpose flour is a blend of hard and soft wheat flours, making it an excellent choice for baked goods that require a balance between texture and structure. It contains:

• Protein: All-purpose flour contains about 10-12% protein, which is essential for building the gluten network in dough.
• Starch: The starch content of all-purpose flour contributes to its ability to hold moisture and provide structure in baked goods.
• Fiber: Although not as high in fiber as some other types of flour, all-purpose flour still contains a significant amount of dietary fiber that can help with digestion and satiety.

The 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour called for in the Strawberry Cream Pie to Die for Recipe should be measured using a digital kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure accuracy. It’s essential to use high-quality, unbleached all-purpose flour that is free from additives and preservatives.

1 tsp salt

When it comes to making our Strawberry Cream Pie to Die for, one ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing out the flavors of all the other components – 1 tsp salt.

Salt may seem like an unusual addition to sweet treats like pies, but trust us when we say that a pinch of it makes all the difference. In this case, we’re using a modest amount of salt to enhance the natural sweetness of our strawberries and balance out the creaminess of the whipped cream.

The reason why salt works so well in baked goods is because of its ability to reduce sweetness and bring out the nuances of other ingredients. When you taste something sweet without any salt, it’s like your tongue is hitting a brick wall – there’s no depth, no complexity, just pure sugariness. But add a pinch of salt and suddenly, the flavors become more rounded and interesting.

In the case of our Strawberry Cream Pie, we’re not trying to make it taste savory or anything like that. No way! We’re simply using the salt to amplify the flavors of all the other ingredients and create a harmonious balance between sweet and creamy.

So, when you’re making your own Strawberry Cream Pie from scratch, don’t be shy about adding that 1 tsp salt. You might think it’s too little, but trust us – it makes all the difference in the world!

1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

The first step in creating a show-stopping Strawberry Cream Pie to Die for is to gather and prepare the necessary ingredients, including 1 cup of cold unsalted butter.

When using cold unsalted butter, it’s essential to understand its importance and purpose in baking.

Cold butter serves as a crucial component in achieving the perfect texture and consistency for the pie crust, particularly when making a flaky and tender pastry.

As opposed to room temperature butter, which can be too soft and lead to an unpleasantly dense or soggy crust, cold butter allows for better control over the mixing process, ensuring that the butter and dry ingredients remain separate and distinct.

This separation is vital in creating flaky layers within the pastry, giving it a delicate and tender texture that will ultimately complement the sweetness of the strawberries and cream perfectly.

By using cold unsalted butter, bakers can also avoid overmixing, which often results from working with softened or melted butter.

This precise control over the mixing process enables the baker to coax out the best characteristics in each ingredient, ultimately resulting in a pie that is both visually stunning and tantalizingly delicious.

1/2 cup icecold water

In the recipe for the scrumptious Strawberry Cream Pie to Die for, the use of 1/2 cup ice-cold water plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and consistency. To understand why this ingredient is essential, let’s break it down further.

What does ice-cold water do?

The primary function of ice-cold water in this recipe is to help prevent curdling or separation of the mixture when it’s combined with other ingredients like cream and sugar. When you add ice-cold water to the mixture, it helps to slow down the chemical reaction between the eggs and sugar, preventing them from breaking and becoming too stiff.

This also aids in creating a smooth and even texture, which is especially important for a filling that’s supposed to be light and creamy. The ice-cold water helps to incorporate air into the mixture, making it lighter and more aerated, resulting in a filling that’s both delicious and visually appealing.

Why is 1/2 cup exactly?

The amount of ice-cold water used, 1/2 cup, might seem arbitrary at first. However, using this specific quantity helps to achieve the right balance between creaminess and fluffiness in the filling. It’s essential not to overdo it with the water, as this would result in a too-watery or even separated mixture.

The 1/2 cup mark is also crucial for maintaining the perfect ratio of liquid to solid ingredients, ensuring that the mixture remains stable and holds its shape when chilled. This balance is key to achieving the signature texture of a well-made Strawberry Cream Pie filling.

How to incorporate ice-cold water correctly?

When incorporating ice-cold water into the recipe, it’s essential to do so gradually and gently, especially if you’re combining the mixture by hand. Start by whisking together the cream, sugar, and eggs until well combined, then slowly add in the ice-cold water while continuously whisking.

This slow and gentle addition will help prevent any lumps or separation from occurring. If using an electric mixer, make sure to use a low speed setting to avoid incorporating too much air into the mixture, which can cause it to become too light or even collapse when chilled.

Strawberry Filling

Fresh Strawberries

To make the most indulgent and delicious Strawberry Cream Pie, we need to start with a sweet and tangy strawberry filling.

This luscious filling is made from fresh strawberries that are pureed and cooked down until they’re tender and syrupy, but still retain their vibrant color and flavor.

Here’s what you’ll need to make the strawberry filling:

• 2 cups of sliced fresh strawberries
• 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 cup of water

In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and cornstarch.

Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the berries to release their juice and the cornstarch to absorb some of the liquid.

Then, add in the lemon juice, salt, and water.

Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it comes to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the filling has thickened slightly and reduced by about half.

Use an immersion blender (or transfer the mixture to a blender in batches) to puree the filling until smooth.

Strain the filling through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds or pulp, if desired.

Cool the strawberry filling completely before using it to make our indulgent Strawberry Cream Pie.

2 cups sliced strawberries

The sweet and tangy flavor of strawberry filling is a crucial component of a delicious strawberry cream pie, making it a must-have ingredient in this recipe.

The first step in creating the perfect strawberry filling is to prepare 2 cups of sliced strawberries, ensuring that they are fresh and ripe for optimal flavor and texture.

To begin, rinse the strawberries thoroughly under cold running water, then gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps prevent the formation of ice crystals in the freezer or excess liquid in the filling.

Next, carefully slice the strawberries into thin pieces, taking care not to bruise or crush them in the process. It’s essential to maintain their texture and appearance for an appealing presentation.

The sliced strawberries are then ready to be used as the base of the strawberry filling, providing a sweet and fruity flavor profile that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

1/4 cup granulated sugar

The addition of 1/4 cup of granulated sugar in the strawberry filling plays a significant role in enhancing the flavor and texture of the Strawberry Cream Pie. The sweetness of the sugar helps balance out the tartness of the strawberries, creating a more well-rounded taste experience.

When using granulated sugar in the strawberry filling, it’s essential to note that it serves two purposes: it not only adds sweetness but also acts as a preservative, helping to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold in the filling. This is particularly important when making a pie that will be stored at room temperature for an extended period.

The amount of sugar used in this recipe, 1/4 cup, may seem like a relatively small quantity compared to other sweet ingredients often found in desserts. However, the key here lies in achieving balance and subtlety. The sweetness of the sugar is intended to complement the natural sweetness of the strawberries, rather than overpower it.

One of the most significant benefits of using granulated sugar in the strawberry filling is its ability to enhance the texture of the mixture. Sugar helps to thicken the filling, creating a smooth and silky consistency that’s perfect for layering with whipped cream or meringue.

The type of sugar used can also make a difference in the flavor and texture of the filling. Granulated sugar is chosen for this recipe because it dissolves easily and quickly, preventing any grainy textures from forming in the mixture. This ensures that the filling remains smooth and consistent throughout.

2 tbsp cornstarch

The sweet and tangy *_strawberry filling_* is the crowning glory of our Strawberry Cream Pie to Die for recipe.

Made with fresh strawberries, sugar, and a hint of lemon juice, this luscious filling is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

To make the strawberry filling, start by pureeing 2 cups of _fresh strawberries_ in a blender or food processor until smooth.

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the strawberry puree, **1/4 cup granulated sugar**, and **2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice**.

Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the filling is hot and bubbly.

To thicken the filling, mix 2 _tbsp cornstarch_ with a small amount of water or cold liquid in a separate bowl to create a slurry.

Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the strawberry filling, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Continue to cook the filling for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened to your liking and passed the _”wrinkle test”_.

The wrinkle test involves placing a small spoonful of the filling on a chilled plate. If the filling wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it is ready.

Remove the strawberry filling from heat and let it cool slightly before using it as the filling for our Strawberry Cream Pie to Die for recipe.

This delicious pie is sure to become a family favorite, and the _strawberry filling_ is the perfect complement to the creamy whipped topping and flaky pastry crust.

Creamy Topping

Whipped Cream

The crowning glory of any dessert, especially our beloved Strawberry Cream Pie to Die for Recipe, is undoubtedly the creamy topping that adds an extra layer of texture and flavor to each bite. And in this case, we’re specifically talking about the delectable whipped cream that brings everything together.

Whipped cream, also known as sweetened whipped cream or simply whipped topping, is a popular dessert topping made from heavy cream that’s been beaten until it becomes light, fluffy, and almost doubled in volume. This delightful texture is achieved by incorporating air into the cream through mechanical means – think of it like aerating the cream to create an airy, yet rich consistency.

When making whipped cream, we typically start with cold heavy cream as its base ingredient. The fat content in heavy cream is higher than regular milk or half-and-half, which makes it perfect for whipping into a smooth, creamy top.

To sweeten our whipped cream, granulated sugar is often added to balance out the tartness of the whipped cream and bring out its natural sweetness. Some people prefer using other sweeteners like powdered sugar or even honey for their specific flavor profiles – it ultimately comes down to personal preference!

The beauty of whipped cream lies in its versatility as a topping; it complements an array of desserts, from pies to cakes to fruit salads. And with our Strawberry Cream Pie to Die for Recipe, the combination of sweet strawberries and rich vanilla custard base pairs perfectly with the light, airy texture of the whipped cream.

So what makes the perfect whipped cream topping? It’s all about achieving that ideal balance between sweetness, flavor depth, and of course – an airy texture. To do this, we need to gently fold in air while incorporating our sweetener of choice into the heavy cream without over-whipping it. Over-whipped cream can be a bit grainy or too stiff for most desserts.

For an extra touch, some people like adding a pinch of salt or even a teaspoon of vanilla extract to their whipped cream recipe – these subtle additions can take the flavor profile to new heights!

As we continue on our journey through this Strawberry Cream Pie to Die for Recipe, it’s essential to remember that the finishing touches often make all the difference. A well-crafted topping like our whipped cream can transform an ordinary dessert into a show-stopping masterpiece that leaves everyone in awe – and eager for more!

So let’s give our strawberry cream pie the royal treatment with this indulgent whipped cream recipe, shall we?

1 cup heavy cream

The key component that elevates this Strawberry Cream Pie to a whole new level is undoubtedly the Creamy Topping, which consists of an astonishing 1 cup of heavy cream.

This generous amount of heavy cream is not just a mere addition; it’s an essential element that adds a rich, velvety texture and a deep, creamy flavor to the pie. The heavy cream serves as the perfect canvas for the sweetness of the strawberries and the subtle tanginess of the vanilla, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.

To make this Creamy Topping truly shine, it’s essential to choose high-quality heavy cream that is rich in fat content. The higher the fat percentage, the richer and more luxurious the topping will be. Look for a brand that boasts an impressive 36% or higher fat content to ensure maximum flavor and texture.

When incorporating the heavy cream into your Strawberry Cream Pie, make sure to whip it until it reaches stiff peaks. This may seem like a tedious task, but trust us – it’s worth it! The stiffer the whipped cream, the more stable and less likely to collapse it will be, resulting in a beautifully presented pie that’s almost too gorgeous to eat.

As you’re whipping your heavy cream, don’t forget to add a pinch of salt. Sounds strange, right? But trust us, this tiny addition can make all the difference. The salt enhances the sweetness of the strawberries and adds depth to the overall flavor profile of the pie, taking it from delicious to sublime.

Lastly, when pouring the Creamy Topping over your strawberry-infused filling, be sure to create a decorative swirl pattern on top. This adds visual appeal to the dish, making it almost too stunning to devour. And let’s face it – presentation is everything! The more beautiful your dessert looks, the more impressive it will be to your guests and the higher the likelihood of rave reviews.

2 tsp vanilla extract

The addition of creamy topping is a crucial element in creating a truly decadent and irresistible strawberry cream pie. The combination of sweetened whipped cream and vanilla extract creates a rich, velvety texture that perfectly complements the tartness of the strawberries.

In this recipe, we will use 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of our creamy topping. This amount may seem small compared to other recipes, but trust us when we say it makes all the difference in creating a truly authentic and mouthwatering flavor experience.

When selecting a vanilla extract for your creamy topping, make sure to choose a high-quality brand that is free from artificial additives and preservatives. This will ensure that the delicate flavor of the vanilla is not overpowered by other ingredients.

To incorporate 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract into our creamy topping, we can simply add it to the sweetened whipped cream along with any other desired flavorings or mix-ins, such as sugar, heavy cream, and/or a pinch of salt. The result will be a smooth, creamy, and indulgently flavored topping that is sure to elevate our strawberry cream pie to new heights.

Using 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract in our creamy topping serves several purposes. Firstly, it enhances the overall flavor profile of the dessert by introducing a subtle yet unmistakable hint of vanilla sweetness. Secondly, it helps to balance out the tartness of the strawberries and other ingredients, creating a more harmonious and well-rounded taste experience.

Finally, incorporating 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract into our creamy topping adds an extra layer of depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile of our strawberry cream pie. This is especially true when compared to recipes that rely on artificial flavorings or preservatives to achieve a similar effect.

By using high-quality ingredients like vanilla extract, we can create a truly authentic and mouthwatering flavor experience that will leave our guests begging for more.

3 tbsp confectioners’ sugar

The creamy topping that crowns our beloved Strawberry Cream Pie to Die for Recipe is a crucial element in elevating this dessert from ordinary to extraordinary. A key component of this topping is 3 tablespoons of confectioners’ sugar, which serves several purposes.

First and foremost, the confectioners’ sugar adds sweetness to balance out the tartness of the strawberries and the richness of the cream. It’s a subtle yet essential flavor enhancer that prevents the pie from becoming cloying or overpowering.

Secondly, the confectioners’ sugar helps to stabilize the whipped cream, preventing it from weeping or turning into a sad, soggy mess. This is because the sugar inhibits the growth of ice crystals, keeping the cream smooth and silky even when refrigerated for extended periods.

Thirdly, the confectioners’ sugar contributes to the texture of the topping, making it light and airy rather than heavy or grainy. When combined with the cream, it creates a delicate, mousse-like consistency that’s simply divine.

Here are some tips for using confectioners’ sugar in your creamy topping:

1. Use high-quality confectioners’ sugar that’s finely ground and free of lumps. This will ensure a smooth, even texture in your topping.
2. Sift the confectioners’ sugar before using it to remove any lumps or air pockets. This is especially important if you’re making a large batch of topping.
3. Don’t overmix the whipped cream and confectioners’ sugar, as this can lead to a dense, sticky consistency. Stop mixing as soon as the sugar has dissolved and the cream has reached its desired stiffness.

In summary, the 3 tablespoons of confectioners’ sugar in our Strawberry Cream Pie to Die for Recipe are an essential component that adds sweetness, stability, and texture to the creamy topping. By following these tips and using high-quality confectioners’ sugar, you’ll be rewarded with a deliciously smooth and airy topping that’s sure to impress your friends and family.