This is a unique pie because it’s not baked, thus allowing the strawberries to hold their shape and maintain their delicious fresh taste. With its combination of fresh strawberries, cream filling, and a strawberry glacé on top, this pie is perfect for a picnic or potluck gathering. Please note that the glacé part of this recipe should be made at least 4 hours (and up to 4 days) before the rest of the pie so that it has time to set.

　　

Ingredients

Makes one 9-inch pie, 6 to 8 slices (level: moderate)

　　

Crust

1 prebaked 9-inch Traditional Pastry Piecrust shell (page 6)

　　

Strawberry Glacé

1 cup fresh strawberries, mashed

　　1 cup sugar

　　3 tablespoons cornstarch

　　1/2 cup water

　　

Cream

3 ounces cream cheese, softened

　　1 cup heavy cream

　　1/3 cup confectioners’ sugar

　　1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

　　

Garnish

1 cup fresh strawberries, thinly sliced, plus more to serve

　　

Step 1

To prepare the strawberry glacé, in a medium saucepan over high heat, combine the mashed strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Stir for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens. Be patient, this does take time, but it is worth it. Let the glacé cool to room temperature, and then place in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or up to 1 day prior to use.

　　

Step 2

To prepare the cream, using an electric mixer on high speed, beat the cream cheese until it is very smooth, with no clumps. Add the heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla and mix until the cream holds its own shape and all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

　　

Step 3

To assemble the pie, pour the cream into the pie shell. Cover the cream thoroughly with a thick layer of sliced strawberries. Spread the glacé evenly over the strawberries. To serve, garnish with additional sliced (or quartered) strawberries.

　　

Step 4

Strawberry Glacé Pie should be served cold. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

　　From Perfect Pies: The Best Sweet and Savory Recipes From America’s Pie Baking Champion © 2011 by Michele Stuart. Reprinted with permission by Ballantine Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House. Buy the full book from Penguin Random House, Amazon, or Bookshop.