Fresh Strawberry Pie with a Pretzel-Pecan Crust

Are you ready for a dessert that’s equal parts sweet, savory, and utterly irresistible? This Fresh Strawberry Pie with a Pretzel-Pecan Crust is about to become your new favorite summer treat. Picture perfectly ripe strawberries sitting in a rich, tangy filling that’s smooth and luscious—paired with a crunchy, salty-sweet crust made from pretzels and pecans. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures, and each bite is a little piece of heaven.

Trust me, this pie is going to wow your taste buds. It’s fresh, bright, and just the right amount of indulgent. Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ, a family gathering, or as a sweet treat after dinner, it’s the kind of dessert that everyone will ask for the recipe. Let’s dive into this show-stopping, flavor-packed pie!

Why You’ll Love Fresh Strawberry Pie with a Pretzel-Pecan Crust

Here’s why this pie deserves a spot at your table:

Sweet and Savory Crust

The pretzel-pecan crust is what sets this pie apart. The salty pretzels and rich, nutty pecans create a perfectly crunchy base that adds a savory twist to the sweetness of the strawberries. It’s a flavor combo you’ll crave!

Fresh, Juicy Strawberries

The fresh strawberries are the star of this pie. They’re perfectly sweet and juicy, offering the most vibrant and refreshing flavor. When paired with the rich filling, they create an unforgettable taste experience.

Simple Yet Impressive

This pie looks stunning, but it’s surprisingly easy to make. You don’t need to be a pastry pro to pull it off—just a few simple ingredients and some patience. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself!

Make-Ahead Convenience

This pie can easily be made ahead of time, which makes it an ideal dessert for parties or busy weeknights. Let it chill in the fridge and it’s ready to serve when you need it.

Crowd-Pleasing

Whether you’re serving a crowd or enjoying it with a few close friends, this pie is always a hit. It has that classic “wow” factor, with a flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Let’s break down the simple yet delicious ingredients for this beautiful pie:

For the Pretzel-Pecan Crust

• Pretzels
• Pecan halves
• Butter
• Brown sugar

For the Filling

• Fresh strawberries
• Sugar
• Cornstarch
• Water
• Lemon juice
• A pinch of salt

For the Whipped Cream Topping

• Heavy cream
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract

(Note: Exact measurements are provided in the recipe card above!)

Instructions

This pie is easier to make than you might think, and the result is absolutely worth it. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, combine pretzels, pecans, butter, and brown sugar. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a pie pan. Bake for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Let the crust cool completely before filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

In a saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, water, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

Step 3: Add the Fresh Strawberries

Gently fold the fresh strawberries into the cooled syrup mixture. Be careful not to crush the berries; you want them to remain whole for that beautiful, juicy texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Once the crust has cooled, pour the strawberry filling into the pretzel-pecan crust, spreading it evenly. Let the pie set in the fridge for at least 2-3 hours to allow the filling to firm up.

Step 5: Make the Whipped Cream Topping

While the pie is chilling, make the whipped cream topping. Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be sure not to overwhip—soft, fluffy whipped cream is the goal!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the pie is set, top it with the freshly whipped cream. Slice into this beauty and watch everyone’s eyes light up as they take the first bite. Enjoy the perfect combination of fresh strawberries, crunchy pretzel-pecan crust, and a smooth whipped cream topping. It’s pure bliss!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 310
Total Fat: 18g

• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 45mg
  Sodium: 230mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 37g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 24g
  Protein: 3g
  Vitamin A: 8% DV
  Vitamin C: 35% DV
  Calcium: 2% DV
  Iron: 4% DV

How to Serve Fresh Strawberry Pie with a Pretzel-Pecan Crust

This pie is amazing on its own, but here are a few serving ideas to elevate your experience:

With Extra Whipped Cream

Top your slice with a generous dollop of whipped cream. The light, fluffy topping complements the tart strawberries and rich crust.

With Fresh Mint

Add a pop of color and a hint of freshness by garnishing each slice with a sprig of fresh mint.

As a Sweet Snack

Enjoy it as a midday snack with a cup of coffee or tea. The combination of sweet strawberries and salty crust makes for an irresistible treat!

With Ice Cream

For a decadent treat, serve a slice of this strawberry pie with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream pairs perfectly with the pie’s sweet filling.

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the crust and filling the day before. Simply assemble the pie and let it chill in the fridge overnight.
• Customize the Crust: Feel free to switch up the crust ingredients. You can substitute graham crackers or digestive biscuits for the pretzels if you prefer a different flavor.
• More Fruit Options: While strawberries are the star, you can mix in other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries for a fun twist.
• For a Healthier Version: Use a lighter whipped topping or skip the topping altogether for a lighter pie.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but fresh ones give the pie a better texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the filling.

Q2: Can I make this pie without the whipped cream topping?
A2: Absolutely! The pie is delicious on its own without the whipped cream, but the topping does add a nice creamy texture that balances out the sweetness of the pie.

Q3: Can I freeze this pie?
A3: Yes, you can freeze the pie. After assembling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To serve, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator for several hours.

Q4: How long can I store leftovers?
A4: Leftover pie can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to cover it with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

Q5: Can I use a store-bought crust?
A5: Yes, you can use a store-bought graham cracker or shortbread crust for convenience, though the homemade pretzel-pecan crust gives this pie an extra special touch.

Q6: Can I make this pie gluten-free?
A6: You can make the crust gluten-free by using gluten-free pretzels and checking that the other ingredients don’t contain gluten.

Q7: Can I add other fruit to the filling?
A7: Yes! This pie works beautifully with a mix of berries, or you can even add peaches or raspberries to the filling for more flavor.

Q8: Can I use a different nut for the crust?
A8: You can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds, though pecans give the crust a lovely, buttery flavor.

Q9: How can I make the pie sweeter?
A9: If you prefer a sweeter pie, feel free to add more sugar to the filling or the whipped cream topping.

Q10: Can I use a different topping instead of whipped cream?
A10: Yes, you can use a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a fun twist.

Conclusion

This Fresh Strawberry Pie with a Pretzel-Pecan Crust is a showstopper dessert that’s both comforting and exciting. The perfect balance of sweet strawberries, crunchy crust, and fluffy whipped cream makes every bite a treat you won’t soon forget. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this pie is sure to bring a smile to your face and your guests. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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