Copycat Big Boy Strawberry Pie Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

This delightful strawberry pie is a perfect dessert for any occasion. It's easy to make and full of fresh, vibrant flavors. The recipe is designed to serve 8 people, with a refreshing, sweet filling that is set to create an irresistible treat. Let's get started!

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh strawberries
• 1 frozen pie crust, baked according to package directions
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 cup lemon-lime soda
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 (3 ounce) package strawberry-flavored gelatin
• Whipped cream, for serving

Directions

1. Wash, dry, and remove the stems from the strawberries. Arrange the strawberries with the tips facing up in the prepared pie crust. If necessary, cut larger strawberries in half to ensure they fit evenly. The strawberries should form a high mound inside the crust.
2. In a saucepan, combine cornstarch and sugar. Add lemon-lime soda and water, whisking until the ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking frequently. Bring it to a boil and continue stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the strawberry-flavored gelatin until it fully dissolves.
5. Allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes. Once cooled, carefully pour the gelled mixture over the strawberries in the pie crust, making sure to cover them evenly.
6. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is fully set.
7. Once set, slice the pie and serve chilled. Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for the perfect finishing touch.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	381
Total Fat	13g (17%)
Saturated Fat	5g (23%)
Cholesterol	6mg (2%)
Sodium	236mg (10%)
Total Carbohydrates	64g (23%)
Dietary Fiber	3g (11%)
Total Sugars	37g
Protein	4g (8%)
Vitamin C	51mg (57%)
Calcium	33mg (3%)
Iron	1mg (8%)
Potassium	189mg (4%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amounts are based on available nutrient data.

The Story Behind the Copycat Big Boy Strawberry Pie

The Copycat Big Boy Strawberry Pie traces its origins to the iconic Big Boy restaurant chain in the United States, famous for its hearty burgers and nostalgic American diner experience. Introduced as a seasonal dessert, this strawberry pie became an instant favorite due to its bright, fruity flavor and visually appealing presentation. Its creation aimed to provide a light, refreshing complement to the rich, savory meals that diners enjoyed at Big Boy.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

While the classic Big Boy Strawberry Pie is primarily associated with the Midwest, variations of strawberry pies appear throughout the United States. In some regions, local fruits are added alongside strawberries, or different types of gelatin are used to create a firmer or softer texture. The Midwest version is distinguished by its use of fresh, plump strawberries layered in a pre-baked crust and set in a slightly sweet gelatin mixture, a signature element that preserves the fruit's natural flavor.

How It Differs from Similar Desserts

Strawberry pie can easily be confused with strawberry tarts, cheesecakes, or trifles. Unlike a tart, which uses a delicate pastry shell and often has a custard base, the Big Boy version relies on a simple pie crust that is sturdy enough to hold the fruit and gelatin without collapsing. Compared to strawberry cheesecake, this pie is lighter, with no cream cheese layer, and its gelatin topping gives it a glossy, translucent finish that distinguishes it from other strawberry desserts.

Where It Is Commonly Served

This pie is most often enjoyed in casual dining settings, particularly at diners, cafes, and family-friendly restaurants. It also appears at seasonal gatherings, summer potlucks, and community fairs, where fresh strawberries are abundant. Due to its visual appeal, the pie is often served chilled and topped with a dollop of whipped cream, making it a favorite for both children and adults alike.

Fun and Interesting Facts

• The strawberry gelatin in the pie was originally designed to preserve the fruit longer while keeping it visually appealing.
• The dish became a cultural icon in American diner cuisine, inspiring copycat recipes across the country.
• Despite its simplicity, the combination of soda, sugar, and gelatin creates a unique texture that is firm enough to slice yet melts in the mouth.
• Strawberry pies, including this one, often feature in pie-eating contests and summer food festivals, celebrating their nostalgic and refreshing taste.
• Many home cooks consider this pie a summer staple because it requires no baking beyond the crust, making it a quick and impressive dessert option.

FAQ about Copycat Big Boy Strawberry Pie Recipe

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