Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Pop Tart Pie
Strawberry Pop Tart Pie combines two beloved treats: the gooey, fruity filling of a homemade strawberry pie and the nostalgic sweetness of a Pop Tart. This delightful pie brings together fresh, juicy strawberries, a buttery crust, and a decadent glaze topped with colorful sprinkles. Whether you’re looking for a fun, new dessert for a family gathering, an indulgent breakfast treat, or a way to brighten up your dessert table, this Strawberry Pop Tart Pie will be an instant hit.
The best part? It’s not only delicious but also easy to make! Using a simple list of ingredients, including fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and pre-made pie crusts, this recipe creates a pie that tastes homemade yet is quick and simple to prepare. Add a sweet, creamy glaze and finish with sprinkles, and you’ve got a pie that’s irresistible both in flavor and appearance.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Strawberry Pop Tart Pie:
For the Pie:
- 5 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tbsp cornstarch
- 4 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 14.1 oz refrigerated pie crusts (2 packages)
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
For the Glaze:
- 1½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2-2½ tbsp whole milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp rainbow sanding sugar sprinkles (optional, for a fun pop of color)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Strawberry Filling:
Begin by hulling and chopping the fresh strawberries into small, bite-sized pieces. You’ll need about 5 cups of strawberries, so be sure to measure carefully. In a large saucepan, combine the strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture together and place the saucepan over medium heat. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and the strawberries soften, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and allow the filling to cool slightly while you prepare the pie crust.
Prepare the Pie Crust:
Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it gently against the sides. Trim any excess dough that hangs over the edge. Then, pour the cooled strawberry filling into the crust, spreading it out evenly. Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Press the edges of the top and bottom crusts together, sealing them tightly. Use a fork to crimp the edges and create a decorative pattern. Then, use a sharp knife to make several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
Brush with Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush the egg wash over the top crust to give it a beautiful golden finish when baked. This step will make your pie look as good as it tastes!
Bake the Pie:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on it toward the end to avoid over-browning.
Prepare the Glaze:
While the pie is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the sifted powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Adjust the milk as needed to reach your desired consistency. If you want a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar; for a thinner glaze, add a little more milk.
Cool and Glaze the Pie:
Once the pie has finished baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes before glazing. This cooling step ensures the filling has time to set. After the pie has cooled, drizzle the glaze generously over the top of the pie. Finally, sprinkle the rainbow sanding sugar over the glaze for a fun, festive touch.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries: For the best flavor and texture, make sure to use fresh, ripe strawberries. Overripe or under-ripe berries may affect the taste and texture of the filling.
- Don’t Overmix the Filling: While stirring the strawberry mixture, be sure not to over-mix it. The strawberries should maintain some of their shape for texture in the final pie.
- Chill the Pie Crusts Before Using: If you have time, refrigerate the pie crusts for about 10-15 minutes before using them. This helps ensure they remain flaky during baking.
- Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: Brushing the pie crust with an egg wash creates a beautiful golden color and adds shine to the finished pie. It’s an easy step that makes a big difference.
- Adjust the Glaze Consistency: If your glaze is too thick to drizzle, simply add more milk a little bit at a time until it reaches a pourable consistency. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar until it’s thick enough to hold its shape.
Variations to Try
If you’re looking for a way to customize your Strawberry Pop Tart Pie, here are a few variations you can try:
- Berry Medley Pie: Swap out the strawberries for other berries, like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Or, try a combination of different berries for a more complex flavor profile.
- Fruit Filling Twist: For a slightly tangier pie, add a handful of rhubarb to the strawberry filling for a delicious strawberry-rhubarb combo.
- Lemon or Orange Glaze: Instead of a classic vanilla glaze, make a citrusy glaze with lemon or orange juice. The bright acidity will pair beautifully with the sweet strawberry filling.
- Add a Streusel Topping: Before baking the pie, sprinkle a simple streusel topping made of flour, sugar, and butter over the top. This adds a crispy, buttery texture to the pie and takes it to the next level.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or almonds to the strawberry filling for added texture and flavor.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers (though they might be gone before you know it!), here’s how to store and reheat your Strawberry Pop Tart Pie:
- Storing the Pie: Once the pie has cooled completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating the Pie: To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until the filling is heated through and the crust is crispy again. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the filling. You may need to adjust the sugar and cornstarch slightly, as frozen strawberries tend to release more liquid.
- Can I make this pie ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the pie up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to glaze it just before serving for the best presentation.
- What if I don’t have sanding sugar for the glaze? If you don’t have rainbow sanding sugar, you can use any kind of colored sprinkles, or skip the sprinkles entirely for a more classic look.
- Can I use a different type of pie crust? Yes, if you prefer a homemade pie crust, feel free to make your own. You can also experiment with graham cracker crust for a different twist.
- Can I make mini pies instead of one large pie? Absolutely! You can use the same ingredients and bake them in individual mini pie pans. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as needed, as smaller pies will cook faster.
The Final Word
This Strawberry Pop Tart Pie is the perfect dessert to bring to any gathering, enjoy at home with family, or treat yourself to a fun, nostalgic twist on a classic. The fresh strawberries create a sweet, fruity filling, and the golden, flaky crust is the ideal base for a drizzle of smooth glaze and a sprinkle of rainbow sugar. Easy to make and even easier to love, this pie will quickly become a go-to favorite.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this Strawberry Pop Tart Pie delivers all the flavor, comfort, and joy of a homemade treat. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to create something delicious that will have everyone asking for seconds!