Strawberry Custard Pie with Flaky Crust

This Strawberry Custard Pie is the perfect blend of silky, vanilla-infused custard and juicy fresh strawberries, all wrapped in a golden, flaky pie crust. It’s a refreshing dessert that bridges the warmth of homemade baking with the brightness of spring and summer fruit. Whether served warm or chilled, this pie is a slice of comfort that’s perfect for any occasion—from brunch to backyard BBQs.

Ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 4–5 tbsp ice water

(Or use a store-bought 9-inch pie crust for convenience.)

For the Custard Filling:

• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved or quartered
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:
   • In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly.
   • Gradually add ice water until the dough forms. Roll into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
   • Roll out the dough and press it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges. Pre-bake (blind bake) at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
2. Make the Custard:
   • In a saucepan, whisk together milk, cream, sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, vanilla, and salt.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened (about 6–8 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Strawberries:
   • Toss strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
4. Assemble the Pie:
   • Pour custard into the pre-baked crust.
   • Gently stir in the strawberries or layer them on top, pressing slightly into the custard.
5. Top and Bake:
   • (Optional) Add a top crust or cut-out dough shapes for decoration.
   • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is set.
6. Cool & Serve:
   • Let the pie cool completely before slicing. Chill for at least 2 hours for cleaner cuts.
   • Serve plain or with a dollop of whipped cream.

This Strawberry Custard Pie combines luscious textures and bright flavors in every bite. The smooth vanilla custard contrasts beautifully with sweet-tart strawberries, and the buttery crust adds the perfect crunch. Whether you’re enjoying it as a springtime treat or a festive finish to a summer meal, this pie is sure to become a seasonal favorite. Don’t forget to save a slice for yourself—it disappears fast!