Begin by mixing the sugar, cornstarch, and water in a medium-sized saucepan. Stir it well to ensure everything is combined. This mixture will become the syrup that enhances the strawberries' flavor.
Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and cook while stirring constantly. You'll notice the mixture gradually thickening. The key here is to keep stirring until it's fully thickened, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Pay attention to the color and texture; it should be glossy and smooth.
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the strawberry jello. Mix thoroughly until the jello is completely dissolved, creating a vibrant, sweet syrup that will coat the strawberries beautifully.
Now, take your mixture and refrigerate it for about 15 minutes or until slightly cooled. This step is crucial because you want the syrup to be at a perfect temperature when it meets the strawberries. The cooling process allows the flavors to meld together.
While the filling is cooling, prepare your strawberries. Wash them thoroughly, hull, and cut them in half. The fresh strawberries should be bright and firm, which will ensure a delightful texture in your pie.
Once the syrup is cooled, arrange the strawberries in the baked pie shell. You can be creative here; arrange them in circles or layer them for a more artistic presentation.
After arranging the strawberries, pour the jello mixture over the top, ensuring every strawberry is covered. This step is essential as it will help the pie set beautifully and keep the strawberries vibrant.
Now place the pie in the refrigerator and allow it to chill until it’s fully set. This usually takes about 2 to 4 hours, but for best results, leave it overnight.
When ready to serve, slice your Strawberry Pie with a sharp knife for clean cuts. Serve it chilled, and if desired, top with whipped cream for an extra decadent treat!
