French Strawberry Pie

This Strawberry Cream Pie is a delightful dessert that showcases the natural sweetness and vibrant color of fresh strawberries. With a creamy and tangy filling, it’s a perfect treat to enjoy during the summer or any time you’re craving a fruity and refreshing dessert. The combination of a buttery pastry shell, luscious cream cheese, and juicy strawberries makes this pie a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a sweet treat for yourself, this Strawberry Cream Pie is sure to satisfy your dessert cravings.

This Strawberry Cream Pie is a delicious way to celebrate the sweetness of fresh strawberries. It’s an elegant and refreshing dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream. Perfect for picnics, parties, or family gatherings, this pie is sure to be a hit with everyone who takes a bite.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 quart strawberries
• 1 package (3 ounces) cream cheese
• 1 baked pastry shell, 9-inch
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
• Red food coloring

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Wash, drain, and hull the strawberries.
2. Beat the cream cheese with a fork until smooth.
3. Spread the cream cheese over the bottom of the cooled pie shell.
4. Stand half of the whole strawberries in the shell with their tips facing up.
5. Mash the remaining strawberries and press them through a sieve to remove the seeds.
6. Measure the strawberry juice and, if needed, add water to make 1 1/2 cups of liquid.
7. In a saucepan, mix the granulated sugar with the cornstarch. Gradually stir in the strawberry juice mixture and the lemon juice.
8. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and becomes clear, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
9. Stir in a few drops of red food coloring, then remove the saucepan from the heat.
10. Allow the sauce to cool for about 10 minutes, then pour it over the strawberries in the pie shell.
11. Chill the pie for about 3 hours, or until it becomes firm.
12. Beat the heavy cream with confectioners’ sugar until it holds its shape.
13. Spoon the whipped cream in a ring around the edge of the pie.
14. Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator for later enjoyment.

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS:

• Strawberries: Strawberries are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and helps with collagen production for healthy skin. Strawberries also provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy digestive system. Additionally, strawberries contain antioxidants that can help protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Cream Cheese: Cream cheese used in this recipe provides a source of protein and calcium. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, while calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
• Pie Shell: The baked pastry shell adds a buttery and crispy texture to the pie. While it contributes to the overall taste and experience, it should be noted that it is high in calories and fat.
• Heavy Cream: The heavy cream used for the whipped cream topping adds richness and indulgence to the dessert. However, it is high in saturated fat and calories, so it should be consumed in moderation.
• Confectioners’ Sugar: Confectioners’ sugar is used to sweeten the whipped cream. It is essentially powdered sugar and is high in calories and carbohydrates. It’s important to consume confectioners’ sugar in moderation as part of a balanced diet.