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

Scale

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

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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.