Copycat Frisch’s Big Boy Fresh Strawberry Pie

This delicious Copycat Frisch’s Big Boy Fresh Strawberry Pie captures the essence of the beloved classic pie from Frisch’s Big Boy/Shoneys! Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or any dessert occasion, this pie is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With just six simple ingredients and a pre-made crust, you can whip up a delightful treat that showcases the fresh flavor of strawberries. Its vibrant color and refreshing taste will impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute dessert cravings.
• Fresh Flavor: The bright taste of strawberries shines through, offering a light and fruity finish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as is or top with whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This pie appeals to both kids and adults, making it a hit for any occasion.
• No Special Equipment Needed: You only need basic kitchen tools to create this stunning dessert.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes preparing your strawberry pie even smoother. Here are the essential items you’ll need to make this delightful dessert.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Fork
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for baking the pie crust, ensuring even cooking.
• Fork: Essential for pricking holes in the pie crust so it bakes perfectly without puffing up.
• Saucepan: Allows for easy heating and mixing of ingredients, ensuring a smooth filling.

Ingredients

This strawberry pie tastes JUST like the classic pie from Frisch’s Big Boy/Shoneys! It uses 6 simple ingredients, and a pre-made pie crust to make it easy!

For the Pie Crust

• 1 frozen pie crust (deep dish if you can find it)

For the Filling

• 1 1/4 cups water
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3 Tbsp cornstarch
• 3 Tbsp dry strawberry Vegan gelatin (like Jello – about 1/2 a 3 oz box)
• 2 cups sliced strawberries (sliced in half or quarters, depending on size of berries)
• whipped cream, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Copycat Frisch’s Big Boy Fresh Strawberry Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Prick bottom and sides of frozen pie crust with fork.
2. Bake according to package directions. If you’re worried about the crust puffing up, place a piece of parchment paper inside the crust and add about a cup of dried beans or rice.
3. Let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Filling

1. In a small saucepan, add water, sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk to combine.
2. Heat over medium heat until boiling. Reduce heat slightly and simmer for several minutes until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in dry strawberry Vegan gelatin. Set aside to cool while stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Wash and slice strawberries.
2. Add sliced strawberries to cooled pie crust.
3. Pour cooled strawberry Vegan gelatin mixture over strawberries evenly.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.

Step 4: Serve Your Delicious Pie

1. Once set, slice your Copycat Frisch’s Big Boy Fresh Strawberry Pie into generous portions.
2. Serve cold with whipped cream if desired.

Enjoy your homemade version of this classic dessert!

How to Serve Copycat Frisch’s Big Boy Fresh Strawberry Pie

This delightful strawberry pie is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness and texture.

Fresh Mint Garnish

• Add fresh mint leaves on the side for a burst of color and a refreshing aroma.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or dairy-free ice cream for a creamy contrast to the tart strawberries.

Drizzled Chocolate Sauce

• A light drizzle of chocolate sauce can add an indulgent twist to each slice, enhancing its sweetness.

Fruit Salad Side

• A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can complement the pie’s flavors and provide freshness.

Tea or Coffee

• Pair with a cup of herbal tea or coffee to balance the sweetness of the pie, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings.

How to Perfect Copycat Frisch’s Big Boy Fresh Strawberry Pie

Achieving the perfect strawberry pie is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Opt for ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor and vibrant color in your pie.

• Cool Your Gelatin Mixture: Allow the gelatin mixture to cool before pouring over the strawberries. This prevents them from becoming mushy.

• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the pie for at least four hours after assembling. This allows it to set properly and enhances the flavors.

• Double Check Crust: Ensure your pie crust is fully baked and cooled before adding fillings to avoid sogginess.

• Experiment with Sweetness: Adjust sugar levels in the gelatin based on your taste preference and the sweetness of your strawberries.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Frisch’s Big Boy Fresh Strawberry Pie

Pairing side dishes with your strawberry pie can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can cleanse the palate before enjoying dessert.
2. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Flavorful skewers provide a savory contrast that complements the sweet pie.
3. Vegetable Crudités: A platter of fresh veggies with hummus offers a crunchy side that’s nutritious and satisfying.
4. Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses like Brie or cheddar for an elegant touch alongside sweet dessert flavors.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with strawberries, offering heartiness to your meal.
6. Roasted Asparagus: This seasonal veggie adds elegance and a slight bitterness that balances out desserts beautifully.
7. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with vegetables can serve as a filling side that complements fruity desserts well.
8. Quinoa Salad: Light yet hearty, this grain salad provides protein along with fresh herbs, making it a healthy addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Copycat Frisch’s Big Boy Fresh Strawberry Pie can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of for a delightful dessert.

• Using a soggy crust: Ensure you bake the pie crust according to package directions. A well-baked crust prevents sogginess from the filling.
• Not cooling the filling properly: Allowing the strawberry gelatin mixture to cool is crucial. If it’s too hot when poured over strawberries, it may cook them and ruin the texture.
• Skipping the refrigeration step: Refrigerate your pie for at least 4 hours. This helps set the filling properly, ensuring a sliceable pie.
• Over-sweetening: Adjust sugar according to your taste and the sweetness of your strawberries. Taste before pouring the filling into the crust for balance.
• Not slicing strawberries evenly: Cut strawberries into uniform sizes so they set evenly in the pie and provide a nice presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover pie in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Copycat Frisch’s Big Boy Fresh Strawberry Pie

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• The pie can be frozen for up to 2 months, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Copycat Frisch’s Big Boy Fresh Strawberry Pie

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Warm slices for about 10-15 minutes until just heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds. Check and heat more if needed.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes, checking often to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Copycat Frisch’s Big Boy Fresh Strawberry Pie?

Copycat Frisch’s Big Boy Fresh Strawberry Pie is a delicious dessert that mimics the classic version from Frisch’s using simple ingredients like fresh strawberries and gelatin.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe yields 8 servings, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings or family dinners.

Can I use different fruits in this pie?

Absolutely! You can substitute strawberries with other berries or fruits like blueberries or raspberries while following the same method.

Is there a vegan option for this strawberry pie?

Yes! This recipe already uses vegan gelatin and can be made completely plant-based by ensuring all ingredients are vegan-friendly.

How do I make this pie gluten-free?

To make Copycat Frisch’s Big Boy Fresh Strawberry Pie gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free pie crust available at most grocery stores.

Final Thoughts

The Copycat Frisch’s Big Boy Fresh Strawberry Pie is not only easy to make but also deliciously refreshing. Its simplicity allows for customization, so feel free to experiment with different fruits or toppings. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!