Strawberry Slab Pie

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie is as beautiful as it is delicious—bright red berries over a golden crust make a stunning presentation. The shortbread base is buttery and crisp, providing the perfect contrast to the sweet, juicy strawberry filling. Plus, it’s an easy make-ahead dessert that’s ideal for potlucks, parties, and family gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

• All-purpose flour
• Sugar
• Kosher salt
• Cold butter, cubed

For the pie:

• Strawberry Jell-O
• Sugar
• Cornstarch
• Salt
• Sprite (or another lemon-lime soda)
• Strawberries, washed and tops removed
• Whipped topping or whipped cream, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Combine flour, sugar, salt, and cold butter in a mixing bowl until crumbly.
3. Press mixture evenly into an 18×12-inch sheet pan. Prick all over with a fork.
4. Bake for 22–25 minutes, until light golden brown. Cool completely on a wire rack.
5. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together strawberry Jell-O, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and Sprite. Bring to a boil, whisking until thickened. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
6. Slice strawberries and arrange them evenly over the cooled crust.
7. Pour the cooled filling over the strawberries.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
9. Garnish with whipped topping before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 16
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 35 minutes

Variations

• Use raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries for a colorful twist.
• Add a layer of cream cheese filling between the crust and strawberries for extra richness.
• Make a chocolate shortbread crust for a more decadent base.
• Sprinkle crushed nuts over the whipped cream topping for crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This pie is best served chilled and does not require reheating. The crust will soften slightly over time, but the flavors remain fresh.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are best for texture, but thawed frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch. Drain them well before adding.

What can I use instead of Sprite?

You can substitute any lemon-lime soda or even plain water for a less sweet filling.

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake and cool the crust a day ahead, then assemble the pie later.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Make sure the crust is completely cooled before adding the strawberries and filling.

Can I make this in a smaller pan?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the baking time for the crust and reduce the filling accordingly.

Can I use a different flavor of Jell-O?

Yes, raspberry or cherry Jell-O work beautifully with strawberries.

How long does it take to set?

The filling usually sets within 2 hours in the refrigerator.

Can I serve it without whipped cream?

Yes, it’s delicious on its own, but whipped cream adds a light, creamy finish.

Will the filling be too sweet with Sprite?

Sprite does make it sweeter; for less sweetness, use club soda or water.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can make two sheet pans for larger gatherings.

Conclusion

Strawberry Slab Pie is a fresh, fruity, and delightfully simple dessert that’s perfect for summer celebrations or anytime you want a dessert that serves a crowd. With its buttery shortbread crust and vibrant strawberry topping, it’s sure to be a hit at any table.

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