Strawberry Jello Pie

(Classic No-Bake, Glossy, Slice-Clean Finish)

Strawberry Jello Pie is a structured gelatin-set dessert built on three components:

1. Crisp crust
2. Stabilized strawberry gelatin filling
3. Fresh strawberry suspension

When properly executed, it slices cleanly, holds its shape at room temperature for short periods, and delivers balanced sweetness with fresh berry brightness.

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Yield

1 standard 9-inch pie (8 slices)

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Ingredients

Crust (Choose One)

Graham Cracker Crust

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 6 tbsp melted butter
• 2 tbsp sugar

OR

• 1 pre-made 9-inch crust

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Filling

• 1 (3 oz) box strawberry gelatin (such as Jell-O)
• 1 cup boiling water
• ½ cup cold water
• 1 lb fresh strawberries (hulled, halved or sliced)

Optional (for added stability):

• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• ¼ cup sugar (if berries are tart)

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Method

1. Prepare Crust

If making from scratch:

1. Combine crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
2. Press firmly into pie dish.
3. Bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes.
4. Cool completely.

Chilling crust before filling improves structure.

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2. Prepare Gelatin Base

Dissolve gelatin completely in 1 cup boiling water.
Stir for 1–2 minutes to fully hydrate granules.

Add cold water and stir.

Let mixture cool until slightly thickened but not set (about 15–20 minutes at room temp).

Target consistency: syrupy—not watery.

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3. Assemble

Arrange strawberries evenly in cooled crust.

Pour partially thickened gelatin over berries.

Refrigerate 3–4 hours until fully set.

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Optional: Thickened “Glaze-Style” Version (More Stable)

For cleaner slicing and reduced weeping:

1. Combine gelatin powder + sugar + cornstarch in saucepan.
2. Add boiling water.
3. Simmer 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Cool slightly before pouring over berries.

This method creates a bakery-style glossy finish.

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Texture & Structure Notes

Issue	Cause	Fix
Filling runny	Poured too soon	Let gelatin thicken slightly
Cloudy appearance	Overstirred while cooling	Stir gently
Weeping liquid	Overripe berries	Use firm strawberries
Crust soggy	Warm gelatin added	Ensure crust fully cool

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Flavor Enhancements

• Add 1 tsp lemon zest to brighten flavor
• Replace ¼ cup water with strawberry puree
• Add layer of sweetened cream cheese under berries

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Make It Creamy (Strawberries & Cream Version)

Spread mixture of:

• 8 oz cream cheese
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla

onto crust before adding strawberries.

Chill 20 minutes, then proceed with gelatin layer.

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Storage

Refrigerate up to 3 days.

Best texture within 48 hours.

Do not freeze (gelatin texture degrades).

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Nutritional Estimate (Per Slice)

Approximate:

• 220–280 calories
• 8–12g fat
• 35–40g carbs
• 2–3g protein

Varies by crust type.

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Professional Finish

• Brush berries lightly with warm jelly before gelatin pour for extra shine
• Garnish with whipped cream
• Chill pie plate before slicing for cleaner cuts
• Wipe knife between slices

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Technical Summary

Successful strawberry Jello pie requires:

1. Proper gelatin hydration
2. Controlled cooling before pouring
3. Firm, fresh strawberries
4. Adequate chill time

The result is a glossy, vibrant dessert with clean structure and bright berry flavor—ideal for spring gatherings, potlucks, and Easter tables.

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