This Lower Sugar Fresh Strawberry Pie is the perfect dessert for strawberry lovers who want to enjoy a sweet treat without all the extra sugar. Itโs light, refreshing, and packed with fresh strawberries, with just enough sweetness to bring out their natural flavor.
๐ Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought) ๐ฅง
For the Filling:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved ๐
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit) ๐ฌ
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch ๐ฝ
- 1/2 cup water ๐ง
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice ๐
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ๐ฟ
For Topping (optional):
- Whipped cream (sugar-free or light) ๐ฅ
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish ๐ฟ
๐ Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pie Crust:
- Pre-bake the crust:
- If using a homemade pie crust, blind bake it according to your recipe’s instructions. For store-bought, follow the package directions. Let it cool completely before filling.
2. Make the Strawberry Filling:
- Mash some strawberries:
- Take 1 cup of the fresh strawberries and mash them in a medium saucepan until they release their juices.
- Cook the filling:
- Add the sugar (or sugar substitute), cornstarch, water, and lemon juice to the mashed strawberries. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add flavor:
- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
3. Assemble the Pie:
- Arrange the strawberries:
- Arrange the remaining 3 cups of halved strawberries in the cooled pie crust.
- Pour the filling:
- Pour the cooled strawberry glaze over the fresh strawberries, making sure they are evenly coated.
- Chill the pie:
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 2-3 hours to set the filling.
4. Serve:
- Add toppings:
- Before serving, top the pie with a dollop of whipped cream (optional) and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
- Enjoy:
- Slice and enjoy your refreshing Lower Sugar Fresh Strawberry Pie!
โฑ๏ธ Preparation Time: 20 minutes
โฑ๏ธ Chilling Time: 2-3 hours
โฑ๏ธ Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
๐ฝ๏ธ Servings: 8 servings
๐ฅ Calories: Approximately 180-200 kcal per slice (depending on sweetener and crust)
This Lower Sugar Fresh Strawberry Pie is a light, fruity dessert thatโs perfect for spring and summer! With fresh strawberries and less sugar, itโs a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth. ๐๐ฅง