Imagine a dessert so vibrant, so bursting with fresh flavors, that it transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. Shirley Coward's Fresh Fruit Pie is not just a dessert – it's a masterpiece of color, texture, and taste that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. With a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and fresh ingredients, this pie is about to become your new go-to recipe for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant summer gatherings.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pre-baked pie crust
- 2 cups mixed fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, kiwi)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: the pre-baked pie crust, mixed fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, kiwi), sugar, cornstarch, water, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is ready for the final baking step.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and cornstarch. Stir them together until they are well mixed.
- Add the water to the saucepan and whisk the mixture until the cornstarch and sugar are fully dissolved.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it begins to thicken and bubble. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the mixture is thickened, remove it from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract, mixing well to incorporate the flavors.
- In a large bowl, gently combine the mixed fresh fruit. Make sure the fruit is washed and cut into bite-sized pieces if necessary.
- Pour the thickened mixture over the fresh fruit, carefully folding the fruit into the mixture until all the fruit is well coated.
- Pour the fruit mixture into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly to ensure a beautiful presentation.
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the filling to set slightly.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This will help the filling firm up a bit more.
- Slice the pie into 8 servings and enjoy your delicious Shirley Coward's Fresh Fruit Pie!
Tips
- Choose the Freshest Fruit: The key to an outstanding fruit pie is using the ripest, most flavorful fruits. Mix and match seasonal berries and fruits for the most vibrant results.
- Cornstarch Consistency is Crucial: When cooking the filling, stir constantly and watch for the moment it thickens. The mixture should coat the back of a spoon without being too runny or too stiff.
- Pre-Bake Your Crust: A golden, crisp crust is essential. Make sure to pre-bake your pie crust to prevent sogginess and maintain a perfect texture.
- Let It Cool Properly: Patience is key! Allowing the pie to cool for 15-20 minutes helps the filling set and makes for cleaner, more beautiful slices.
- Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature: This versatile pie tastes amazing both slightly chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect for any serving preference.
- Optional Garnish: Consider topping with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
