Deconstructed Fresh Strawberry Pie or Mom’s Version of Strawberry Shortcake

I remember growing up and anxiously anticipating the first strawberry shortcake of the season.  Only difference in our house was that mom didn’t like shortcake.  It got soggy from the strawberries so instead of the cake, she always made pie crust.  Mom’s version always reminded me of fresh strawberry pie that had fallen apart.  It was delicious and is the memory I have of strawberry shortcake.  So now, that is what I serve my family too.

Deconstructed Fresh Strawberry Pie

2 – 3 large cartons of fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and sliced

1/3 c granulated sugar

2 T orange liqueur (optional)

1 recipe of Flakey Pie Crust, cut into strips and baked

fresh whipped cream

In a large bowl, combine the sugar and sliced strawberries.  Allow the strawberries to sit for 20 minutes so the sugar draws out the strawberry juice.  Add the orange liqueur and stir.  Taste and adjust the sugar as needed.

In a small, break some pie crust strips and place in the bottom.  Top with strawberries and fresh whipped cream.  Serve.  Tastes like summer!