Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie – Classic, Glossy & Bursting with Summer Flavor

A retro-inspired strawberry pie with a sweet glaze and buttery crust—just like the one from Big Boy diners

Introduction: A Slice of Americana

Few desserts capture the essence of summer quite like a Fresh Strawberry Pie. Inspired by the iconic Big Boy diner version, this pie is all about simplicity and flavor: a crisp pie crust filled with fresh strawberries and coated in a glossy, sweet glaze made from strawberry jelly and sugar. It’s the kind of dessert that feels both nostalgic and timeless—perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a sunny afternoon treat.

With minimal ingredients and no need for fancy techniques, this pie is easy to make and even easier to love. Serve it chilled with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing classic that never goes out of style.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this pie so fresh and flavorful:

Crust:

• Frozen pie crust (1)
  Pre-made and convenient—just bake and cool before filling.

Optional: Use a homemade buttery crust for extra richness.

Filling & Glaze:

• Sugar (1¼ cups)
  Sweetens the glaze and balances the tartness of the berries.
• Cornstarch (3 tbsp)
  Thickens the glaze to a glossy, pourable consistency.
• Water (1¼ cups)
  Forms the base of the glaze.
• Strawberry jelly (3 tbsp)
  Adds concentrated strawberry flavor and shine.
• Fresh strawberries (2 cups, sliced)
  Juicy and vibrant—make sure they’re ripe and sweet.

Tip: Use local or seasonal strawberries for best flavor.

Equipment Needed

• Saucepan
• Whisk or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pie plate
• Knife and cutting board
• Cooling rack
• Refrigerator

Optional: Use a mesh strainer to remove lumps from the glaze.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Pie Crust

Preheat oven according to package instructions.

Bake 1 frozen pie crust until golden and crisp—usually 10–12 minutes.

Let cool completely on a wire rack.

Tip: Prick the crust with a fork before baking to prevent puffing.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat:

• Combine 1¼ cups sugar, 3 tbsp cornstarch, and 1¼ cups water.

Whisk constantly until mixture thickens and becomes translucent—about 5–7 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in 3 tbsp strawberry jelly until smooth.

Let glaze cool slightly—about 10 minutes.

Optional: Add a drop of red food coloring for a deeper hue.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Arrange 2 cups sliced strawberries in the cooled pie crust.

Pour the warm glaze evenly over the berries, coating them completely.

Use a spatula to gently spread and smooth the glaze.

Tip: Layer berries in a spiral pattern for a decorative look.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate pie for 2–3 hours, until glaze is fully set.

Slice and serve chilled.

Top with:

• Whipped cream
• Vanilla ice cream
• Mint leaves or extra berries

Yields:

• 8 slices

Presentation Tip: Serve on white plates to highlight the vibrant red filling.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

• Summer picnics
• Family gatherings
• Diner-style dinners
• Holiday cookouts

Pair with:

• Lemonade or iced tea
• Fresh fruit salad
• Grilled chicken or burgers

Tip: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for classic diner flair.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Peach Strawberry Pie

Add sliced peaches to the filling.

Chocolate Strawberry Pie

Drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze before chilling.

Coconut Crust

Use a graham cracker and shredded coconut crust.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based crust and jelly.

Mini Pies

Assemble in tart pans for individual servings.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 1 day in advance.
• Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Avoid Freezing: Not recommended—glaze may separate.

Tip: Keep chilled until serving to maintain texture and shine.

Nutrition Notes (Per Slice, ~1 of 8)

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: ~2g
• Carbohydrates: ~40g
• Fat: ~12g
• Sugar: ~28g
• Sodium: ~180mg
• Fiber: ~2g

This pie is:

• Fresh and fruity
• Sweet and glossy
• Perfectly portioned
• Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

This Big Boy’s Fresh Strawberry Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and nostalgia. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to impress and delight.