This Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is the ultimate balance of sweet strawberries and tangy rhubarb, all wrapped in a flaky, golden pie crust. The vibrant red fruit filling is as stunning as it is delicious, making this pie the perfect centerpiece for your next gathering.
Not only does this pie look gorgeous, but it’s also easy to make, with simple ingredients that deliver big flavor. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate it further. Whether it’s a summer picnic, a family dinner, or a holiday treat, this Strawberry Rhubarb Pie will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
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2 cups rhubarb, chopped into 1-inch pieces
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon lemon zest
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 package of refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade, if preferred)
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1 tablespoon butter, cut into small cubes
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt. Stir until the fruit is evenly coated.
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Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
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Pour the fruit mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
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Dot the filling with butter.
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Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Trim any excess dough, then crimp the edges to seal the pie. Cut several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
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Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
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Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving to allow the filling to set.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 8 slices
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie: A Timeless Classic
Strawberry rhubarb pie has been a beloved dessert for generations, captivating both young and old with its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. This dessert is often considered the quintessential spring and summer pie, bringing together the juiciness of ripe strawberries and the sharp, tangy bite of rhubarb. The combination of these two fruits creates a unique flavor profile that’s refreshing, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a holiday feast, or simply looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with loved ones, this pie is guaranteed to steal the show.
The History of Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
The history of strawberry rhubarb pie is deeply rooted in American tradition, with the rhubarb plant itself being used in cooking for centuries. While rhubarb was initially brought to North America by European settlers, it wasn’t until the 19th century that it became a staple in American baking, particularly in pies. The combination of strawberries and rhubarb grew in popularity as it made use of the early-spring harvests of both fruits.
Interestingly, rhubarb was once considered more of a vegetable than a fruit, but over time, it became widely accepted as a fruit in culinary contexts. Strawberry rhubarb pie, in particular, became a symbol of springtime, offering a fresh and vibrant dessert after the long, cold winter months. In fact, rhubarb was often referred to as the “pie plant” because of its frequent use in pie-making. Today, strawberry rhubarb pie continues to be a crowd favorite, offering a delightful blend of nostalgia and deliciousness with every bite.
Why Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is So Special
The allure of strawberry rhubarb pie lies in its remarkable combination of flavors. The sweetness of ripe strawberries perfectly balances the tartness of rhubarb, making for a truly satisfying dessert. Rhubarb, often described as having a tart, citrus-like flavor, serves as the perfect complement to the sweetness of strawberries. This interplay between sweet and sour gives the pie a refreshing quality that other fruit pies, such as apple or peach, often lack. The contrast in flavor, along with the flaky, buttery pie crust, makes this dessert a true standout.
Moreover, strawberry rhubarb pie is incredibly versatile. It can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences and the occasion. Whether enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, chilled with a dollop of whipped cream, or served as a stand-alone treat, it is always a crowd-pleaser. The use of seasonal ingredients also makes this pie a favorite during spring and summer months when strawberries and rhubarb are in peak season.
Making Strawberry Rhubarb Pie at Home
While strawberry rhubarb pie can be purchased from bakeries or grocery stores, there’s something special about making it from scratch at home. The process of creating a homemade pie allows for personalization, ensuring that each bite is exactly to your liking. When making strawberry rhubarb pie, you can adjust the amount of sugar, lemon zest, and cornstarch to suit your taste and texture preferences.
The crust, too, plays a significant role in the overall flavor and texture of the pie. A homemade pie crust, whether buttery or flaky, adds a depth of flavor that pre-made store-bought crusts simply cannot replicate. For those who prefer convenience, using a pre-made pie crust can still result in a delicious dessert, but the homemade crust will always stand out as a true labor of love. Additionally, the process of baking the pie and allowing the sweet and tart filling to come together creates an aroma that fills the kitchen, enhancing the entire baking experience.
Customizing Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
One of the best things about making your own strawberry rhubarb pie is the ability to customize it to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter pie, you can increase the sugar content to your liking. For those who love the tangy kick of rhubarb, you can add more rhubarb and reduce the amount of strawberries. The addition of lemon zest in this recipe is optional but highly recommended, as it brightens up the flavors and brings an extra level of freshness.
Another way to customize your pie is through the crust. While a traditional pie crust is standard, you can experiment with different crusts to enhance the flavor. A graham cracker crust or a streusel topping can offer a different texture and flavor that complements the fruit filling. If you prefer a gluten-free option, gluten-free pie crusts can easily be substituted to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry rhubarb pie is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. The classic choice is to serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold, creamy texture of the ice cream balances the warm, tart pie filling beautifully. Alternatively, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch to the pie. For a more indulgent treat, serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top.
For those who prefer a chilled dessert, strawberry rhubarb pie can be refrigerated after cooling and served cold. The flavors continue to meld together as it sits, and the filling becomes slightly firmer, making it easier to slice neatly. This version is perfect for warm weather gatherings or picnics when you want a refreshing dessert to enjoy outdoors.
Health Benefits of Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
While pie is typically considered a decadent dessert, there are some health benefits to strawberry rhubarb pie, especially when it’s made with fresh, natural ingredients. Strawberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making them a great addition to any diet. They are also rich in vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health.
Rhubarb, on the other hand, is a low-calorie, high-fiber vegetable that contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, calcium, and potassium. While it is important to note that rhubarb leaves should never be consumed due to their toxicity, the stalks provide a great source of nutrients. When combined, strawberries and rhubarb create a dessert that offers some nutritional value while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
Why You Should Make Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
There are many reasons why you should consider making strawberry rhubarb pie. First and foremost, it’s a delicious and crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends. The unique combination of sweet and tart flavors makes it a refreshing alternative to more common fruit pies, such as apple or cherry. Additionally, it’s a fantastic way to celebrate the arrival of spring and summer, as both strawberries and rhubarb are in season during this time.
Making strawberry rhubarb pie from scratch also gives you full control over the ingredients, allowing you to adjust the recipe to your liking. Whether you prefer a sweeter pie or a more tart version, homemade strawberry rhubarb pie allows you to experiment and perfect the recipe. Plus, the process of making the pie from scratch is enjoyable and rewarding, and the final result is a homemade dessert that you can be proud of.
Conclusion
In conclusion, strawberry rhubarb pie is a timeless dessert that continues to captivate taste buds with its perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Its rich history, versatility, and customizable nature make it a favorite among bakers and dessert lovers alike. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a slice of homemade pie on a warm summer day, strawberry rhubarb pie is always a good choice. By making it at home, you not only get to enjoy a delicious treat but also create a memorable experience for yourself and those you share it with. So, next time you’re in the mood for a dessert that’s both sweet and tangy, look no further than this classic strawberry rhubarb pie recipe.