Homemade Strawberry Pie Filling

This strawberry pie filling recipe is a quick and easy homemade fruit filling made with fresh or frozen strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch. It creates a thick, glossy, and sweet filling perfect for pies, cheesecakes, desserts, and toppings. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s a simple upgrade from store-bought versions.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Servings: 2

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

4 cups fresh or frozen strawberries sliced
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
½ cup water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional

Equipment

Medium saucepan
Whisk
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Heatproof bowl (for cooling)

Method

Prepare strawberries: Wash, hull, and slice strawberries. Set aside.
Make the base: In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and water until smooth.
Cook the mixture: Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until it becomes thick and glossy.
Add strawberries: Stir in strawberries and cook for 3–5 minutes until softened but still slightly chunky.
Finish the filling: Remove from heat, add lemon juice and vanilla, and mix well.
Cool completely: Let the strawberry pie filling recipe cool before using. It will thicken more as it rests.

Notes

For a thicker strawberry pie filling recipe, increase cornstarch slightly or simmer longer.
Frozen strawberries work well but should be thawed and drained first.
The filling thickens significantly as it cools—don’t overcook it expecting instant thickness.
You can mash some strawberries for a smoother texture or leave them whole for a chunkier filling.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 5–7 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Information (Strawberry Pie Filling Recipe)

(per serving, estimated)