
This refreshing fruit pie combines a simple cooked glaze with vibrant fresh strawberries or raspberries, poured into a pre-baked crust. The pie is cooled until set, allowing the natural sweetness of the berries to shine through with a bright hint of lemon. These types of pies were especially popular in mid-20th century cookbooks for their ease and seasonal appeal, often served during summer holidays or Sunday dinners. The vivid red color and burst of fresh fruit make this a standout dessert that balances sweetness with tart fruit flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch (or enough to thicken)
- few drows lemon juice
- few drops food coloring (or to desired tint)
- 1 pint fresh strawberries ( and/or raspberries)
- 1 pre-baked pie shell
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Glaze
- Combine water, sugar, and cornstarch in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and turns clear.
Step 2: Flavor and Color
- Add a few drops of lemon juice and enough red food coloring to achieve a bright red hue.
- Stir to combine thoroughly.
Step 3: Cool the Glaze
- Remove the glaze from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Arrange cleaned fresh strawberries and/or raspberries in the pre-baked pie shell.
- Pour the cooled glaze evenly over the fruit.
Step 5: Chill
- Refrigerate the pie until fully set, about 2–3 hours.
- Serve chilled.
Tips
- Use fresh raspberries and strawberries for best texture
- Chill thoroughly before slicing for clean cuts
- Adjust sugar slightly if berries are very sweet
- Lemon juice brightens the flavor—don’t skip it
- Red food coloring is optional but traditional
- Works well in a baked pie shell or served over berries
- Stir constantly while cooking to avoid lumps
- Can be made a day ahead and refrigerated
- Serve with whipped cream if desired
Nutrition
Calories: 224kcalCarbohydrates: 43gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 91mgPotassium: 112mgFiber: 2gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 7IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 16mgIron: 1mg
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