There’s something about strawberries that takes me back to summers with my grandma, barefoot in her backyard, eating fresh berries out of a chipped enamel bowl. We’d sit on a creaky old porch swing while she told stories and I giggled at the juice running down my chin. So when I say this Easy Strawberry Slab Pie is special, I mean it tugs at the warmest corners of my heart.
But here’s the kicker—it’s easy. Like, really easy. We’re talking pantry staples, store-bought pie crust, and no fussy techniques. This is the kind of recipe that shows up for potlucks, birthday parties, and Sunday suppers alike. And it never—ever—fails to disappear fast.
Why You’ll Love This Slab Pie (Besides the Obvious)
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It’s BIG – Feeds a crowd without fussing over multiple pies. One pan, done.
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Bright & Fresh – Juicy strawberries layered with a glossy, citrusy glaze that lets the fruit shine.
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Retro Vibes, Modern Ease – That jello-glaze combo is a throwback in the best way.
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Kid-Approved – From the soda-sweetened filling to the whipped cream on top.
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Prep-Friendly – Make it ahead and chill until you’re ready to serve. Zero stress.
Let’s Talk Ingredients (Because They’re Simple & Smart)
Here’s everything you need to bring this strawberry beauty to life:
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Refrigerated Pie Crust – We’re using a standard 11 oz. package with two crusts. No shame in the shortcut—it bakes up golden and crisp, and nobody will guess it’s not homemade.
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Fresh Strawberries (32 oz.) – Hulled and sliced. Go for firm, ripe berries—nothing mushy.
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Lemon-Lime Soda (2½ cups) – Yep, you read that right. We use Sprite to bring a gentle citrus fizz that balances the sweetness. 7UP works, too.
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Strawberry Jello (6 oz.) – Gives that signature glossy sheen and berry-kissed flavor.
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Sugar (1¼ cups) – Just enough to sweeten the glaze without overpowering the fruit.
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Cornstarch (⅓ cup) – Helps the glaze thicken into that dreamy, sliceable texture.
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Lemon Juice (1 tbsp) – Adds brightness and keeps everything from tasting too sweet.
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Whipped Topping or Whipped Cream (for garnish) – A little dollop makes it feel complete.
Step-by-Step: Your Pie Journey Starts Here
1. Crust First, Always
Preheat your oven to 450°F. Take both crusts from the package and lay them on a lightly floured surface. Stack one on top of the other and roll them out to about 12×17 inches (we want it to fit a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan or baking sheet).
Gently transfer the crust to your pan. Tuck in any overhang and crimp the edges however you like—rustic is charming here. Use a fork to poke holes all over the bottom and sides to prevent puffing.
Bake for 9–11 minutes, until golden and just starting to crisp. Set it aside to cool.
2. Cook Up That Strawberry Glaze
In a large saucepan over medium heat, whisk together your dry ingredients: strawberry jello, sugar, and cornstarch.
Slowly pour in the Sprite and lemon juice, whisking as you go. Bring it to a boil, stirring gently, until it thickens. This usually takes about 5–8 minutes.
Take it off the heat and let it cool for 10–15 minutes. You want it pourable but not piping hot.
3. Assembly Time!
Once the crust is cooled and the glaze is warm (not hot), layer your sliced strawberries evenly over the crust. Pour that luscious strawberry glaze right over the berries. Gently tap the pan on the counter to help it settle into all the nooks.
Pop the whole pan into the fridge for at least 2 hours to set. Don’t rush it—this step’s non-negotiable if you want clean slices.
Fun Twists & Variations (Because Why Not?)
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Mixed Berry Madness: Swap half the strawberries for raspberries or blueberries.
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Boozy Glaze: Stir in a splash of Grand Marnier or strawberry liqueur after cooking the glaze.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Once the pie is chilled, drizzle melted white or dark chocolate across the top.
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Mini Slabs: Use smaller quarter-sheet pans and divide the crust to make two different versions—perfect for indecisive folks.
