Shoney’s Strawberry Pie Recipe: Easy Homemade

Recreate the beloved taste of Shoney’s strawberry pie with this easy, homemade recipe. This recipe yields a perfect balance of sweet, juicy strawberries encased in a flaky, golden crust, a delightful dessert. The straightforward instructions mean anyone can create this classic, crowd-pleasing treat.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 7 hours 35 minutes (includes chilling time)
Servings 8
Difficulty Easy
Cuisine American

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it prioritizes simplicity without sacrificing flavor. I’ve personally made this pie countless times, and each time, it’s a hit. The secret is using fresh, ripe strawberries, which provide the best flavor and sweetness. The combination of butter and shortening in the crust creates a perfectly flaky texture that complements the juicy filling.

The cooking process is simple, but the end result is a truly impressive pie. From the first bite to making the glaze, the goal is always authentic flavor. The end result is a pie that tastes just like the restaurant’s, but fresh and homemade. You’ll be proud to serve this at any gathering!

This specific recipe ensures that the filling sets up properly, preventing a runny pie. The addition of cornstarch and a bit of lemon juice are critical for achieving the ideal consistency. The warm glaze on top adds a beautiful shine and intensifies the strawberry flavor, making it irresistible. Allrecipes.com has great tips on classic desserts.

Ingredients

This Shoney’s strawberry pie recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients to replicate the authentic taste. Careful ingredient selection is key to the deliciousness of this pie.

Ingredient Quantity Notes and Alternatives
All-purpose flour 1 1/4 cups Provides structure for the crust. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Salt 1/2 teaspoon Enhances the flavors of the crust and filling.
Unsalted butter (cold) 1/2 cup (1 stick) Adds flakiness and flavor to the crust. Make sure it’s very cold. Salted may be used but reduce added salt.
Vegetable shortening (cold) 1/4 cup Contributes to the tenderness and flakiness of the crust.
Ice water 4-6 tablespoons Binds the crust ingredients together.
Fresh strawberries 4 cups, hulled and sliced The star of the show! Use the ripest, most flavorful strawberries you can find. Frozen, thawed strawberries are a substitution.
Granulated sugar 1 cup Sweetens the filling and helps it thicken. Adjust to taste depending on the strawberries’ sweetness.
Cornstarch 1/4 cup Thickens the strawberry filling and prevents it from being runny.
Water 1/4 cup Helps to dissolve the cornstarch.
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon Adds acidity to balance the sweetness and brightens the flavors.
Red food coloring (optional) A few drops Enhances the color of the filling for visual appeal.
Strawberry preserves 1/2 cup, warmed Adds shine and intensifies the strawberry flavor to the pie. Use quality preserves.

Step-by-Step Instructions

To make the perfect Shoney’s strawberry pie, follow these easy steps. A proper technique is important for pie crust and filling consistency.

  1. Prepare the Crust

    Whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and shortening. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to incorporate until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Form into a disc, wrap, and chill.

  2. Make the Strawberry Filling

    Combine sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, lemon juice, and salt in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries soften. Add red food coloring if desired. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

  3. Assemble and Bake the Pie

    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out chilled crust to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Transfer the crust, crimp the edges, and pour in the cooled strawberry filling. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.

  4. Glaze and Cool

    Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. Brush with warmed strawberry preserves. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Chef Tips for Perfect Results

  • Use Very Cold Ingredients: Cold butter, shortening, and ice water are essential for a flaky crust. The cold fat creates steam as the pie bakes, resulting in layers.
  • Don’t Overwork the Dough: Overworking the dough develops gluten, leading to a tough crust. Mix until the dough just comes together.
  • Chill the Dough and Filling: Chilling the dough before rolling helps prevent shrinkage during baking. Cool the filling before adding it.
  • Blind Bake the Crust (Optional): For extra crispness, blind bake the crust for 15 minutes before adding the filling. This prevents a soggy bottom.
  • Vent the Pie: Cut slits or use a decorative pattern. Helps excess steam escape and prevents the filling from boiling over.
  • Quality Strawberries: Use ripe, fresh strawberries for optimal flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding these common mistakes leads to pie success. Proper technique will take your Shoney’s strawberry pie to the next level.

  • Using Warm Ingredients: Warm butter and shortening will melt, making the dough sticky and difficult to work with. Always use cold fats.
  • Overmixing the Dough: Too much mixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough crust. Mix gently.
  • Not Chilling the Dough: Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax, and the fat to firm up, contributing to flakiness. Always chill.
  • Adding Too Much Liquid: Adding too much water to the crust makes it sticky and difficult to handle. Be conservative in adding water, starting with small amounts.
  • Not Cooking the Filling Long Enough: Insufficient cooking will result in a runny filling. Ensure the filling thickens sufficiently before removing it from the heat.

Variations and Substitutions

Adapt the recipe to your preferences. These flavor variations enhance this simple recipe.

Ingredient Substitution Impact on Flavor
All-purpose flour Gluten-free flour blend Similar texture, but slight changes in flakiness.
Unsalted butter Salted butter (reduce added salt) or vegan butter Slightly different flavor profile, consider adjusting salt.
Vegetable shortening More butter Crust may be less flaky, but richer in flavor.
Granulated sugar Honey or maple syrup (in filling) Adds a subtly different sweetness and flavor note. Reduce liquid.
Lemon juice Lime juice or orange juice Alters the citrusy notes of the filling.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This classic dessert pairs beautifully with several complements. Here are ideal occasions to serve this pie.

  • À la Mode: Serve a slice of Shoney’s strawberry pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream contrasts the warm pie.
  • With Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream enhances the lightness and fresh fruit flavors. Make it from scratch for the best texture.
  • For a Summer Picnic: Pack individual slices for a refreshing treat. The pie is wonderful served chilled and is ideal for warm weather gatherings.
  • Celebrations: This pie is a perfect dessert after a family gathering.
  • Casual Dinner Parties: Serve it as a delightful end to a casual dinner. Impress your guests with your homemade dessert skills.

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage ensures the pie stays fresh. Here’s how to preserve your homemade pie.

Method Duration Instructions
Refrigerator Up to 3 days Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
Freezer (whole pie) Up to 2 months Wrap the baked, cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Freezer (individual slices) Up to 1 month Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Reheating (if desired) Very brief Gently warm individual slices in the microwave (15-30 seconds) or oven (350°F/175°C for a few minutes). Handle the glaze carefully.

Nutritional Information

Nutritional information is for one serving. Approximate values.

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 350
Protein 3g
Fat 15g
Carbohydrates 55g
Fiber 3g
Sugar 35g
Sodium 200mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen ones. Thaw the frozen strawberries completely before slicing and using them in the filling. You might need to add a bit more cornstarch to the filling to account for the extra liquid released by the thawed berries. Ensure the filling has a good consistency.

How do I know when the pie is done?

The pie is done when the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling. The crust should be evenly baked. To be certain, you can also insert a toothpick into the center of the pie. If it comes out clean, the pie is likely done, particularly if the crust is browning too quickly.

My filling is too runny. What went wrong?

A runny filling may be due to insufficient cooking time, or not enough cornstarch. Make sure the filling has thickened to the desired consistency while cooking. If the filling is still too runny, you can try refrigerating the pie for a longer period to allow it to set further. Ensure you used the correct amount of cornstarch.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can absolutely make this pie ahead of time. Bake the pie, and allow it to cool completely, then refrigerate. The flavors meld making it perfect for meal prepping. The pie stores well when properly covered.

How do I serve the pie like Shoney’s?

Traditionally, Shoney’s strawberry pie is served chilled, with a glaze on top. Simply slice and serve immediately. You can serve it plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream, if you want to be extra.

This easy Shoney’s strawberry pie recipe brings the classic taste home. With the right ingredients and care, you can make a pie that delights. This pie is perfect for any occasion.

Enjoy the sweet, juicy, and irresistible flavor of this homemade strawberry pie!

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Shoney's Strawberry Pie Recipe: Easy Homemade

Shoney’s Strawberry Pie Recipe: Easy Homemade


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  • Author: Samantha Jones
  • Total Time: 455
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Recreate the beloved taste of Shoney’s strawberry pie with this easy, homemade recipe. Sweet, juicy strawberries in a flaky, golden crust make for a delightful American dessert, perfect for any gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold
1/4 cup vegetable shortening, cold
46 tablespoons ice water
3 to 3 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for glaze)


Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
Add cold butter and shortening, and cut into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
Divide dough in half, shape into discs, and chill for at least 1 hour.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press into the bottom and up the sides.
Place sliced strawberries in a bowl, add 1/4 cup sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Toss to coat and let sit for about 10 minutes.
Pour strawberry mixture into the pie crust and dot with tablespoons of water to help steam the filling as it cooks.
Roll out the second disc of dough for the top crust. Cover the pie filling and crimp the edges to seal. Cut slits in the top for steam to escape.
Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before baking.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pie for 50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
While the pie is baking, mix 1 tablespoon of cold water with the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar, then brush this glaze over the top of the pie once it’s out of the oven and slightly cooled.
Cool completely before serving.

Notes

Use ripe, fresh strawberries for best flavor.
For a gluten-free crust, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
If the dough becomes too sticky, chill it for a few minutes before rolling out.
For a crumb crusted version, skip the top crust and sprinkle the filling with a streusel-type topping made from flour, sugar, and butter.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 45
  • Cook Time: 50
  • Category: DESSERTS
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 35g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 66g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

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