If you’ve been dreaming of a dessert that perfectly balances sweet, salty, and fruity notes, then you’re going to adore this Fresh Strawberry Pie with Pretzel Pecan Crust Recipe. Imagine juicy, vibrant strawberries glazed in a shiny, luscious strawberry glaze, all nestled in a buttery, crisp crust that combines the surprising crunch of pretzels with the warm earthiness of toasted pecans. This pie is as refreshing as it is irresistible—a no-bake marvel that’s ideal for those warm spring and summer days when you want something light, yet indulgent. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become one of your favorite go-to desserts for gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Fresh Strawberry Pie with Pretzel Pecan Crust Recipe truly lies in its carefully selected yet simple ingredients. Each component plays a vital role—pretzels and pecans bring delightful texture and flavor to the crust, fresh strawberries provide juicy sweetness and vibrant color, and the gelatin glaze holds everything together with a beautiful shine and subtle tartness.
- 2 cups crushed pretzels: Adds salty crunch that contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries.
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans: Brings a rich, nutty depth that enhances the crust’s flavor.
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crust ingredients while lending a luscious buttery taste.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Balances the saltiness in the crust with just a touch of sweetness.
- 6 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and halved): The star of the show—juicy, bright, and bursting with natural flavor.
- 1 cup water: Creates the base for the strawberry glaze, helping to dissolve the sugar and cornstarch.
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens the glaze for a perfect finishing touch.
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the glaze to the perfect consistency so it holds the strawberries in place.
- 1 (3 oz) box strawberry gelatin (like Jell-O): Gives the glaze a glossy finish and a vibrant strawberry flavor boost.
- Whipped cream for topping (optional): Adds creamy richness if you want to take this pie to the next level.
How to Make Fresh Strawberry Pie with Pretzel Pecan Crust Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Pretzel Pecan Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix together the crushed pretzels, finely chopped pecans, melted butter, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. This delightful blend forms a crust that’s crunchy and full of flavor. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to create an even layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until it turns golden and fragrant, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely—cooling is essential to keep that crust crisp under the juicy strawberry topping.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Glaze
While your crust is cooling, it’s time to whip up the luscious glaze. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of the fresh strawberries, water, 1 cup sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid lumps, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the pan from heat, stir in the strawberry gelatin until it dissolves completely, then let the glaze cool for 10 to 15 minutes to prevent melting your crust when poured.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Lay out the remaining fresh strawberry halves evenly across the cooled crust. This not only makes the pie look stunning but ensures every slice delivers fresh strawberry goodness. Gently pour the slightly cooled glaze over the strawberries, coating them without washing them away. Pop the pie into the fridge for at least 4 hours until the glaze has set beautifully, giving you that perfect slice every time.
Step 4: Optional Whipped Cream Topping
Just before serving, add a dollop of whipped cream on each slice to bring a creamy contrast to the sweet and tangy fruit and crunchy crust. It’s a little something extra that makes this pie feel even more special.
How to Serve Fresh Strawberry Pie with Pretzel Pecan Crust Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh mint leaves or a light sprinkle of powdered sugar can elevate your pie’s presentation and flavor. The cool mint adds a refreshing note that complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the saltiness of the crust perfectly.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a small glass of sparkling lemonade. Both options offer a delightful temperature and texture contrast, perfect for summer desserts enjoyed outdoors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in mini tart pans or clear cups layered with extra fresh strawberries and whipped cream for charming, bite-sized versions. You can also drizzle a little dark chocolate over the top for an unexpectedly delicious finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once assembled and chilled, cover the pie with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps fresh for up to 3 days. The crust remains delightfully crunchy, while the filling stays fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
This pie is best enjoyed fresh and chilled rather than frozen, as freezing can alter the texture of both the strawberries and the crust. To save time, you can freeze the prepared crust separately for up to 1 month and thaw it before adding the strawberries and glaze.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake fruit pie, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, enjoy it cold straight from the fridge for that fresh, summery feeling.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries provide the best texture and appearance for this pie, especially since the berries are showcased whole. Frozen strawberries tend to release more water and become mushy, which can make the crust soggy and the filling watery.
Is it necessary to bake the pretzel crust?
Baking the crust helps it hold together firmly and crisps the nuts and pretzels just enough to enhance their flavor. While you could skip baking, the texture won’t be as satisfying or sturdy when slicing the pie.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pretzels to make the crust, and double-check your gelatin brand to ensure it’s gluten-free as well. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How do I make the strawberry glaze less sweet?
If you prefer a tarter glaze, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice when cooking the glaze. It brightens the flavor and balances the sweetness without overpowering the natural strawberry taste.
Can I use other berries instead of strawberries?
You can certainly experiment with fresh raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries, but keep in mind that the strawberry gelatin gives the glaze its signature flavor. Swapping the fruit might change the taste and color, so you may want to adjust the gelatin accordingly or use unflavored gelatin with fresh berry juice.
Final Thoughts
This Fresh Strawberry Pie with Pretzel Pecan Crust Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together an unexpected combination of textures and flavors in one irresistibly fresh dessert. Every bite is a delightful dance of crunchy, sweet, salty, and juicy goodness that feels like a celebration of summer. I can’t wait for you to make this pie for your next gathering — it’s sure to become a beloved favorite for you and everyone you share it with!
Print
Fresh Strawberry Pie with Pretzel Pecan Crust Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Fresh Strawberry Pie with Pretzel Pecan Crust perfectly balances sweet, salty, and fruity flavors. Juicy fresh strawberries coated in a glossy, homemade strawberry gelatin glaze rest on a buttery, crunchy crust made from crushed pretzels and toasted pecans. This refreshing, no-bake dessert with a baked crust is ideal for spring and summer gatherings, delivering a delightful mix of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Filling and Glaze
- 6 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 (3 oz) box strawberry gelatin (such as Jell-O)
Topping (Optional)
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine crushed pretzels, finely chopped pecans, melted unsalted butter, and ¼ cup granulated sugar. Mix until well blended.
- Form and bake crust: Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form an even crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and allow to cool completely before filling.
- Make the glaze: While the crust cools, place 2 cups of fresh strawberries into a medium saucepan along with 1 cup water, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 3 tablespoons cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture boils and thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add gelatin to glaze: Remove the glaze from heat and immediately stir in the strawberry gelatin powder until thoroughly dissolved. Let this glaze mixture cool for 10 to 15 minutes to thicken slightly but remain pourable.
- Assemble the pie: Arrange the remaining fresh strawberries evenly in the cooled pretzel crust. Pour the cooled strawberry gelatin glaze evenly over the strawberries, ensuring they are well coated and the glaze fills the gaps.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, allowing the glaze to fully set and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally top with whipped cream to add extra richness and creaminess to each slice.
Notes
- For a more tart flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the glaze before cooling.
- Use ripe but firm strawberries for the best texture and appearance.
- The crust can be baked a day ahead and stored tightly covered to save time on the day of serving.
