Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

A fail-proof Strawberry Rhubarb Pie that’s sweet, tangy, and loaded with family-tested tricks to keep the crust crisp and the filling thick every time. This dessert is perfect for church potlucks, family dinners, or when you just need a slice of summer goodness. Its balance of flavors and textures makes it a delightful treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – This recipe simplifies the pie-making process, ensuring success even for beginners.
• Bursting with Flavor – The combination of strawberries and rhubarb creates a unique sweet-tart flavor profile that is irresistible.
• Versatile Serving Options – Serve warm with ice cream or chilled as a refreshing dessert at gatherings.
• Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday meal or a casual get-together, this pie fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious preparation of your Strawberry Rhubarb Pie, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie pan
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie pan – Essential for shaping and holding your pie, ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowls – Useful for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Rolling pin – Helps roll out the dough evenly for a perfect crust.
• Sharp knife – Important for accurately cutting fruits and trimming dough.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Strawberry Rhubarb Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Filling

• 3 cups strawberries (- Hulled and halved)
• 2 cups rhubarb (- Chopped into ½-inch pieces)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (- Or adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup brown sugar (- Light or dark)
• 3½ tbsp. cornstarch (- Or tapioca for thickening)
• 1 tbsp. lemon juice (- Fresh)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (- Or strawberry extract for variation)

For the Crust

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp. sugar
• 1 cup butter (- Cold, cubed)
• 6–8 tbsp. ice water (- As needed)

For Topping (Optional)

• 2 tbsp. butter (- For dotting filling)
• 2 tbsp. cream (- Optional, for brushing crust)
• 2 tbsp. coarse sugar (- Optional, for topping crust)

How to Make Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Filling

1. Wash and hull the strawberries. Cut rhubarb into ½-inch pieces.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine strawberries, rhubarb, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
3. Let this mixture sit for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 2: Make the Pie Crust

1. In another bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or fork to blend until crumbly.
3. Gradually add ice water until dough forms. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Roll one disk of dough into a circle large enough to fit your pie pan.
2. Fit the rolled dough into the pie pan and leave an overhang around edges.
3. Pour in the fruit filling and dot with butter.

Step 4: Top and Bake

1. Roll out another disk of dough to cover your pie or create a lattice top.
2. Trim excess dough from edges; crimp if desired and cut steam vents on top.
3. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes before reducing the temperature to 375°F (190°C) for an additional 35–45 minutes until bubbly.

Step 5: Cool Before Serving

Allow your Strawberry Rhubarb Pie to cool uncovered for at least 2 hours before slicing. Enjoy!

How to Serve Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your pie experience.

A La Mode

• Serve warm slices topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that balances the pie’s tartness.

With Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture and complements the tangy flavors of the filling beautifully.

Fresh Berries on Top

• Garnish each slice with fresh strawberries or raspberries for added color and an extra burst of fruit flavor.

Chilled Slices

• For a refreshing twist, chill the pie in the refrigerator before serving. This makes for a cool dessert perfect for summer days.

Pair with Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy your pie alongside a cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee. The warmth of the beverages enhances the pie’s flavors.

How to Perfect Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Creating the perfect Strawberry Rhubarb Pie involves attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are some tricks to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh strawberries and rhubarb provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid frozen fruit if possible for optimal taste.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your filling before baking; you can modify the sugar depending on how sweet or tart your fruit is.
• Chill Your Dough: Keeping your pie crust ingredients cold helps achieve a flaky texture. Chill both the dough and butter before preparing.
• Thicken Properly: Use cornstarch or tapioca to thicken your filling. This prevents it from becoming runny after baking.
• Crimp Edges Well: A good crimp on the crust edges not only looks appealing but also helps seal in flavors during baking.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Pairing side dishes with Strawberry Rhubarb Pie can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Salad with Citrus Dressing: A light salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the pie.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses provides a savory contrast to the sweet and tangy pie.
3. Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy yogurt can be enjoyed alongside slices, offering a tangy yet smooth complement.
4. Roasted Nuts: Crunchy roasted nuts add texture and are perfect for snacking between bites of pie.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits enhances the overall fruity theme of your dessert.
6. Scones: Light and flaky scones make for an excellent accompaniment, especially if served with clotted cream or jam.
7. Peach Crisp: For those who love desserts, pairing another baked treat like peach crisp can create a comforting dessert spread.
8. Crackers with Honey: Simple crackers drizzled with honey provide an easy, sweet snack that pairs well after enjoying pie slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Strawberry Rhubarb Pie can seem simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the perfect pie.

• Bold phrase: Not letting the filling rest. Skipping this step can lead to a watery filling. Let the fruit sit with sugar and cornstarch for at least 30 minutes.
• Bold phrase: Overworking the dough. This can make your crust tough rather than flaky. Mix until just combined and handle it gently.
• Bold phrase: Using warm butter in the crust. Warm butter doesn’t provide the desired flakiness. Always use cold, cubed butter for best results.
• Bold phrase: Skipping the steam vents. Without steam vents, your pie may overflow or become soggy. Always cut slits in the top crust before baking.
• Bold phrase: Not cooling the pie properly. Cutting into a hot pie can ruin its structure. Allow it to cool uncovered for at least 2 hours before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep covered with plastic wrap or foil if not using a container.

Freezing Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

• Bold phrase: Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold phrase: Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking often.
• Bold phrase: Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat until warm, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Rhubarb Pie that might help you.

What is Strawberry Rhubarb Pie?

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is a delicious dessert that combines sweet strawberries with tangy rhubarb in a flaky crust, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

How do I thicken my Strawberry Rhubarb Pie filling?

Using cornstarch or tapioca helps thicken the filling effectively. Make sure to mix it well with the fruit and let it sit before baking.

Can I use frozen strawberries or rhubarb?

Yes! Just ensure that you thaw them thoroughly and drain excess moisture before adding them to your pie filling.

How do I prevent my crust from getting soggy?

To keep your crust crisp, consider pre-baking it slightly and using a thickening agent like cornstarch in your filling.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is not only sweet and tangy but also versatile enough for any occasion! You can customize it with different fruits or spices, making it perfect for family gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!