Name: Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 270 min
Ingredients: 1 homemade pie crust (my recipe makes 2 crusts; 1 for bottom 1 for top); 3 cups sliced rhubarb ((1/2 inch pieces)); 2.5 cups chopped strawberries; 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 Tablespoon orange juice; 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into small pieces); 1 large egg (lightly beaten with 1 Tablespoon (15ml) milk); coarse sugar (for garnish (optional))

Introduction to Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

When spring rolls around, one dessert that often comes to mind is the timeless classic: strawberry rhubarb pie. This delightful tart is a crowd-pleaser, pairing the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the unique tang of rhubarb. It's no wonder this pie has earned a special place on tables across the country.

Why Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is a classic favorite

What makes strawberry rhubarb pie a beloved favorite? For starters, it captures the essence of spring with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors. The balance of sweet and tart creates a taste explosion that keeps people coming back for seconds. Historically, rhubarb's usage dates back to ancient China, and the combination of strawberries and rhubarb has become a staple in American households, particularly in the Midwest.

Making this pie also evokes a sense of nostalgia; many people have cherished memories of baking it with friends or family in their kitchens. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed chilled as a summer treat, strawberry rhubarb pie perfectly embodies the joy of homemade baking. Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Check out my homemade pie crust to get started!

Ingredients for Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Essential ingredients for a delicious pie

Creating the perfect strawberry rhubarb pie hinges on selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. You’ll need a homemade pie crust (for that flaky goodness), 3 cups of sliced rhubarb, and 2 and ½ cups of chopped strawberries to deliver that classic tart-and-sweet blend. The sugars—a mix of brown sugar and granulated sugar—will enhance the natural flavors, while cornstarch helps to thicken the filling. A touch of salt, a splash of orange juice, and a hint of vanilla extract round out the taste profile beautifully. Finally, small bits of unsalted butter added on top promote a golden color and richness.

Tips for selecting the best strawberries and rhubarb

When shopping for strawberries and rhubarb, look for plump, vibrant strawberries without any bruises. For rhubarb, choose firm stalks with a bright color. Fresh is always best, so consider visiting local farmers' markets. Not only does this guarantee freshness, but it supports your community as well! If you’re looking for more tips on choosing seasonal produce, this guide from The Spruce Eats can be incredibly helpful.

Step-by-step Preparation of Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Making a homemade strawberry rhubarb pie is a delightful culinary adventure that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of strawberries, all enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust. Ready to get baking? Let’s dive into the step-by-step preparation of this classic dessert!

Prepare the homemade pie crust

Start by preparing your homemade pie crust. You can find my favorite pie crust recipe here. This recipe yields two crusts: one for the bottom and one for the top. Make sure to chill the dough well to ensure a perfect flakiness.

Make the strawberry rhubarb filling

In a large mixing bowl, gently stir together the sliced rhubarb, chopped strawberries, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Add a splash of orange juice and a dash of pure vanilla extract to enhance the flavors. Let this mixture sit while you prepare your crust, allowing the juices to meld together beautifully.

Preheat your oven

Next, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). This step is crucial as it gets the oven ready for our pie, ensuring an even bake that leads to that tantalizing, golden crust we all love.

Roll out the pie dough

On a floured surface, roll out one disk of your chilled pie dough until you form a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Gently place the rolled dough into a 9-inch pie dish, making sure it’s snug against the sides. Pour the strawberry rhubarb filling into the crust, discarding any excess juice from the bowl, and dot the filling with small pieces of butter.

Assemble the pie with filling and lattice top

Take the second disk of dough from the refrigerator and roll it out as well. Cut it into strips about ½ to 1 inch wide for a lovely lattice top. Weave the strips over the filling, alternating them for that classic lattice look. If weaving sounds tricky, you can simply cover it with the full circle of dough, cut slits for steam vents, and crimp the edges for a rustic feel.

Bake the pie to perfection

Before baking, brush the top crust with a mixture of beaten egg and milk for a beautiful, shiny finish. If you fancy, sprinkle some coarse sugar on top to add a bit of sparkle. Place your pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake it for 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (177°C) for another 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it; when the juices are bubbling and the crust is golden, your pie is done!

Let your strawberry rhubarb pie cool for at least three hours to allow the filling to set properly before serving. Enjoy the fresh, summery flavors and watch as your friends and family rave about your baking prowess!

Variations of Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble Pie

For those who enjoy a bit of texture in their desserts, a Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble Pie is a delightful twist on the classic. Instead of a traditional pie crust, this version features a crumbly topping made from oats, flour, and butter, creating an irresistible crunch. Simply prepare your strawberry rhubarb pie filling as usual, then sprinkle your crumble mix on top before baking. It’s a fantastic option if you’re seeking that perfect combination of sweet and tart with an added crunch.

Vegan Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Options

If you're looking for a vegan-friendly take on strawberry rhubarb pie, it’s easier than you might think! For the crust, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine. To replace the egg wash, simply use a splash of plant-based milk or aquafaba for a golden finish. The filling remains the same, allowing the natural flavors of strawberries and rhubarb to shine through. It's a delicious, compassionate choice that doesn't compromise on flavor! For more vegan baking tips, check out Minimalist Baker.

Cooking Tips for Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Best practices for a flaky crust

To achieve a perfectly flaky crust for your strawberry rhubarb pie, use cold ingredients. Make sure your butter and water are ice-cold before incorporating them into your dough. This helps create that desirable flakiness as the cold fat melts during baking, leaving little pockets. Roll out your dough on a floured surface and handle it as little as possible to prevent it from becoming tough. For added flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of sugar into your crust mixture!

Avoiding a soggy bottom

The last thing you want is a soggy bottom on your strawberry rhubarb pie. To prevent this, you can pre-bake your crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. Another tip is to mix cornstarch with your fruit filling—it helps absorb excess moisture! And don’t forget to discard any liquid left in the bowl after combining your fruits. This ensures all flavors come together beautifully while keeping the texture just right. For a more detailed look at pie crust techniques, check out Sally’s Baking Addiction.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Ideal Pairings for Serving

When it comes to enjoying your homemade strawberry rhubarb pie, consider serving it à la mode! A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream adds a delightful creaminess that beautifully complements the tartness of the filling. For a touch of sophistication, pair your pie with fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

How to Serve for Special Occasions

Planning a gathering? Present the strawberry rhubarb pie on a decorative pie stand and accompany it with colorful fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a vibrant display. Set up a DIY topping bar with options like crushed nuts or flavored whipped creams so guests can customize their slices. These thoughtful touches create a memorable experience, making your pie the star of the dessert table!

For more pairing ideas, check out Bon Appétit’s dessert suggestions.

Time Breakdown for Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Preparation Time
Getting your strawberry rhubarb pie ready involves about 30–40 minutes of prep work. You'll be rolling out the crust, mixing your delicious filling, and arranging your lattice top—all essential steps in crafting that perfect pie!

Baking Time
Once your pie is assembled, it’ll spend roughly 50–55 minutes in the oven. The first 20 minutes at 400°F gives it a beautiful initial bake, followed by a gentler 30–35 minutes at 350°F to bubble those fruity juices.

Total Time
From start to finish, expect to dedicate about 1 hour and 30 minutes to this delightful project. Remember, patience is key; let it cool for 3 hours for the filling to set before digging in! Want to learn more about how pie-making can become a fun and rewarding activity? Check out this comprehensive guide for pie enthusiasts!

Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Calories per serving
A slice of strawberry rhubarb pie typically contains around 250 calories. This makes it a delightful yet indulgent dessert choice for any occasion without being overly heavy.

Sugar content
Each serving has about 18 grams of sugar, blending the natural sweetness of strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb. It’s a perfect balance to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Fiber content
With approximately 2 grams of fiber per slice, this pie provides a small boost towards your daily fiber goals. Berries, like strawberries, are a good source of dietary fiber, contributing to digestion and overall health.

For more information on nutrition and healthy eating, check out the USDA's FoodData Central. It's a great resource for understanding the nutritional value of various ingredients!

FAQs about Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Can I use frozen strawberries and rhubarb?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries and rhubarb can be used in your strawberry rhubarb pie without compromising its deliciousness. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mixing them into your filling. This helps prevent your pie from becoming too watery!

What makes rhubarb tart and how to balance it?
Rhubarb's natural tartness comes from its high acidity, which can be quite pronounced. To balance this, you'll want to blend in the sweetness from the sugars in your recipe. Additionally, using a splash of citrus juice, like orange, can complement the flavors beautifully. Consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for extra depth!

How can I store leftovers effectively?
To keep your strawberry rhubarb pie fresh, let it cool completely before covering it. Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or place them in an airtight container. Stored this way, your pie will last up to five days in the refrigerator. If you plan on enjoying it later, you can also freeze it—just be sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn!

Conclusion on Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

In summary, strawberry rhubarb pie is more than just a delicious dessert; it's a delightful blend of tart and sweet that captures the essence of spring. With its flaky crust and vibrant filling, this pie is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Enjoy every bite!