Summer is the perfect time for big, tasty desserts that everyone loves. This cherry and strawberry slab pie is just that. It’s a huge rectangular pie filled with juicy fruits that will make everyone at your BBQ want more.
This pie is a mix of sweet cherries and ripe strawberries in a flaky crust. Each slice is full of flavor and easy to make. You’ll be the star of any party with this dessert.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Perfect for large summer gatherings and outdoor events
- Combines two beloved summer fruits in one delicious dessert
- Serves up to 12 people with generous portions
- Easy to transport and serve at potlucks and picnics
- Requires minimal baking skills to create an impressive dessert
What Makes This Cherry and Strawberry Slab Pie Special
Summer gatherings need amazing baked goods that bring everyone together. This Cherry and Strawberry Slab Pie is the perfect potluck dish for your next outdoor event. It’s different from round pies because of its sheet pan format.
This pie’s magic comes from its sheet pan baking. It’s not just tasty but also super practical for parties. Here’s why it’s a hit:
- Higher crust-to-filling ratio for a perfect handheld experience
- Easy to slice and serve for large groups
- Showcases beautiful seasonal fruits like cherries and strawberries
- Minimal preparation compared to multiple individual pies
Perfect for Feeding a Crowd
Your Cherry and Strawberry Slab Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a game-changer for parties. It can serve 16 to 20 people, making sure everyone gets a sweet treat. Its large size lets you relax and enjoy the party without worrying about serving.
Maximizing Your Dessert Experience
The sheet pan design means more crust in every bite. With 4 cups of pitted cherries and 4 cups of sliced strawberries, it packs a punch of summer flavor. Your guests will love the effort you put into this amazing dessert.
Essential Ingredients for Your Slab Pie
Making tasty homemade pastries begins with picking the right ingredients. Your Cherry Strawberry Slab Pie needs a mix of fresh, high-quality parts. These will turn your fruit desserts into a hit with everyone.
Fruit Ingredients
- Sweet cherries (fresh or frozen)
- Fresh strawberries
- Granulated sugar
- Lemon juice
Dry Ingredients for Filling
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch
- Salt
When making your slab pie, ingredient quality is key. Pick ripe, in-season strawberries and cherries for the best taste. Mixing fresh fruits will make your dessert truly special.
Crust Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/4 cups |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Kosher salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cold unsalted butter | 1 cup (cubed) |
Pro tip: Make sure your butter is very cold. This will help you get a flaky, soft crust. The right mix of ingredients and careful prep make a dessert that’s unforgettable.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
Making the perfect Cherry Strawberry Slab Pie needs special baking tools. Whether you’re a pro or new to baking, the right tools make a big difference. They help you create amazing homemade pastries.
Baking Pans and Sheet Sizes
Choosing the right baking pan is key for a great slab pie. You should get specific sheet pans for even baking and the best results.
- 11″ x 15″ jelly roll pan (primary baking pan)
- 13″ x 18″ sheet pan (for catching potential drips)
- Recommended rolling area: 15″ x 20″ rectangle
Essential Pastry Tools
These basic tools will help you make professional-quality baked goods easily.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Rolling Pin | Creating uniform pie crust |
| Pastry Brush | Applying egg wash or butter |
| Ruler | Ensuring precise dough dimensions |
| Pastry Wheel/Knife | Cutting clean crust edges |
Optional Equipment
These extra tools can make your pie-making even better.
- Cherry pitter (for fresh cherries)
- Food processor or stand mixer
- Digital kitchen scale
- Rubber spatula
You don’t need all these tools to make a delicious slab pie. Start with the basics and add more as you go. The most important things are passion and creativity!
Making the Perfect Pie Dough
Creating the perfect pie dough is an art that turns simple baked goods into amazing treats. Your cherry strawberry slab pie starts with a delicate, flaky crust. This crust will make your pie recipes shine at any event.
The secret to making exceptional homemade pastries is in a few key techniques. Cold ingredients are crucial for a tender, flaky pie dough. Make sure your butter and cream cheese are well-chilled.
Essential Dough Ingredients
- 6 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups cold butter, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½-⅔ cup cold water
Professional bakers know that gentle handling is key for a delicate crust. Use a food processor to mix ingredients quickly. But pulse carefully to avoid overworking the dough.
Dough Preparation Steps
- Combine flour and salt in food processor
- Add cold cream cheese and pulse
- Incorporate cold butter in two batches
- Slowly add ice water while processing
- Form into a compact disk
- Refrigerate for at least one hour
Your goal is a dough with visible butter streaks for flaky layers. Pro tip: Let the dough rest in the refrigerator to relax the gluten and ensure maximum tenderness.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | 6 cups | Provides structure |
| Cold Butter | 2 cups | Creates flakiness |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Enhances flavor |
| Ice Water | ½-⅔ cup | Binds ingredients |
With these techniques, you’ll make a pie dough that takes your slab pie from good to amazing. Remember, practice makes perfect in the world of homemade pastries!
Preparing the Fruit Filling
Making the perfect fruit filling is key for tasty desserts. Your cherry and strawberry slab pie filling will be the highlight. The right mix of ingredients turns simple pies into unforgettable treats.
Working with Fresh vs. Frozen Fruit
You have two great choices for your filling:
- Fresh Fruit: Gives the best flavor and texture
- Frozen Fruit: Is easy to use and always good quality
You’ll need 6 cups of mixed cherries and strawberries. If using frozen, thaw and drain first.
Proper Seasoning and Sweetening
Getting the flavors right is crucial. Your filling will include:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Granulated Sugar | 1 1/4 cups |
| Lemon Juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Almond Extract | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
Thickening the Filling
Cornstarch is your secret for the right filling consistency. Use 1/4 cup of cornstarch for a perfect set.
Put all ingredients in a big bowl. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes. This lets the fruit release its juices and the sugar dissolve, making a rich filling for your amazing slab pie.
Creating a Beautiful Lattice Top
Making a stunning lattice top turns your pie into a masterpiece. It’s not just about looks; it also lets steam out while baking. This makes your pie crisp and golden.
- Roll out your pie dough to about ¼ inch thick
- Cut 12-14 even strips, each 1 inch wide
- Place the first strip vertically down the pie’s center
- Lay the second strip horizontally across, making a cross
Pro tip: Use cold dough and keep strips even for a pro look. Handle it gently and keep widths consistent.
To weave your lattice:
- Fold back alternating strips
- Place new strips across the first ones
- Unfold to create a woven pattern
- Trim excess dough and crimp edges
Your lattice top will look amazing and help your pie bake evenly. It will have those perfect golden-brown lines that make your pastries special.
Baking Tips and Temperature Guide
Making perfect baked goods like our Cherry Strawberry Slab Pie needs precision and care. The right baking method can make your pie recipes amazing.
Learning to bake your slab pie right means knowing about temperature and technique. Professional bakers share tips to make your homemade pastries golden and perfectly cooked.
Ensuring Even Baking
To get consistent results with your pie recipes, follow these key baking tips:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Put the pie on the lower rack for even heat
- Use a baking stone to cook faster by about 10%
- Turn the pie halfway for even browning
Testing for Doneness
To know when your slab pie is done, watch for these signs:
- Crust Color: Golden brown edges
- Filling Temperature: It should be around 200°F (93°C) inside
- Bubble Test: The filling should bubble through steam vents
- Crust Texture: It should be crisp and flaky at the bottom
Pro tip: If the crust gets too dark, cover it with foil to stop burning. Aim for a perfectly baked slab pie that feeds up to 16 people with great taste and texture.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Your homemade pastries need the right care to stay tasty and fresh. Storing your Cherry Strawberry Slab Pie right is key. You have a few ways to keep it delicious.
For a short time, keep your pie at room temperature for up to a day. It’s best when covered. This keeps the crust crisp and the flavors bright.
- Room temperature storage: 1 day (covered)
- Refrigerator storage: Up to 3-4 days
- Freezer storage for unbaked pie: Up to 3 months
For longer storage, the fridge is your best choice. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic or foil. This stops moisture loss and keeps the crust safe. To warm up leftover slices, bake at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
| Storage Method | Duration | Recommended Technique |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 day | Cover loosely |
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Wrap tightly in plastic |
| Freezer (Unbaked) | 3 months | Wrap in multiple layers |
To freeze, wrap your pie well to avoid freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, bake from the cold state, adding extra time.
Pro tip: Always cool your pie fully before storing. This stops moisture that could make the crust soggy.
Serving Suggestions for Large Groups
Your Cherry Strawberry Slab Pie is the perfect choice for potluck dishes and family gatherings. It’s big and looks great, making it ideal for feeding up to 20 people. It’s perfect for big celebrations.
Creative Presentation Ideas
Serving this slab pie is like an art form. It can make your dessert experience even better. Here are some creative ways to present it:
- Slice the pie directly on the sheet pan for a rustic, homemade look
- Use parchment muffin liners to create individual, portable servings
- Stack slices in a decorative container for easy transport
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar
Smart Portioning Tips
When serving your slab pie at summer gatherings, follow these tips:
| Group Size | Slice Recommendation | Serving Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Small Gathering (10-15 people) | 2×3 inch slices | Serve directly from baking sheet |
| Large Party (20-30 people) | 1.5×2 inch slices | Use individual parchment liners |
Pro tip: Always have extra vanilla ice cream or whipped cream ready. It makes your slab pie even more irresistible. Everyone will want seconds!
Conclusion
Your cherry and strawberry slab pie is more than a dessert. It’s the star of summer treats that make family gatherings unforgettable. By mastering this recipe, you’ve learned a versatile baking skill that feeds many with little effort.
This pie is all about trying new things. You can mix different fruits, change the crust, or adjust the sweetness. Each slice is a story of fresh flavors and creativity, great for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks.
Baking is about sharing love and making memories. When you serve your homemade pie, you’re giving more than just a sweet treat. You’re creating bonds and memories with loved ones. So, get baking, enjoy the process, and share your passion with every delicious bite.
We hope this recipe sparks new baking ideas and adds joy to your summer gatherings. Happy baking!
