Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

The Classic Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is a timeless dessert that beautifully combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the tartness of fresh rhubarb, all encased in a flaky, buttery crust. The lattice top not only adds a decorative touch but also allows the vibrant filling to peek through, inviting you to indulge in its delightful flavors. This pie is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, offering a nostalgic taste that evokes memories of family picnics and warm, sunny days. Whether served on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Pie Crust:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

  • 6-8 tablespoons cold water

• Filling:

  • 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved

  • 2 ½ cups fresh rhubarb, chopped into ½-inch pieces

  • 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

  • ¼ cup cornstarch

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

• Egg Wash:

  • 1 egg

  • 1 tablespoon water

• Optional:

  • Turbinado sugar for sprinkling

Directions:

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:

   • In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.

   • Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a large bowl, combine strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss until the fruit is evenly coated.

3. Assemble the Pie:

   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

   • Roll out one dough disc on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Fit it into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming excess dough to leave a ½-inch overhang.

   • Pour the filling into the crust and dot with butter pieces.

   • Roll out the second dough disc and place over the filling, or cut into strips to create a lattice pattern. Seal and crimp the edges.

   • Brush the top crust with egg wash and sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.

4. Bake the Pie:

   • Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 20 minutes.

   • Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 40-50 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

   • Allow the pie to cool for at least 3-4 hours to set the filling before serving.

Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 8 servings

The Ultimate Guide to Strawberry Rhubarb Pie: A Classic Dessert with a Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is a timeless dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb, all wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust. This pie has been a favorite in many households, especially during the spring and summer months when both strawberries and rhubarb are at their peak. Whether you are a seasoned baker or trying your hand at homemade pies for the first time, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this classic treat.

The History of Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

The origins of Strawberry Rhubarb Pie date back to the early 19th century when rhubarb was first introduced to North America from Europe and Asia. While rhubarb was often used in savory dishes in earlier times, its tartness made it a perfect companion for sweet fruits like strawberries. Over time, bakers began pairing these two ingredients, leading to the creation of this delicious pie.

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie became particularly popular in the United States and Canada, where rhubarb thrived in cooler climates. It was commonly baked in rural kitchens and enjoyed as a staple dessert during spring and early summer, especially when fresh produce was abundant.

Why Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is So Popular

One of the reasons Strawberry Rhubarb Pie remains a beloved dessert is its incredible flavor contrast. The natural tartness of rhubarb is mellowed by the juicy sweetness of ripe strawberries, creating a perfectly balanced filling. The addition of sugar and vanilla enhances the flavor, making every bite delightful.

Moreover, the combination of strawberries and rhubarb creates a stunning color contrast. The deep red hue of the filling, visible through a beautifully latticed crust, makes it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Tips for Making the Perfect Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

1. Choose Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients

Using fresh, ripe strawberries and crisp rhubarb will significantly impact the final taste of your pie. If fresh rhubarb is unavailable, frozen rhubarb can be used, but be sure to drain excess liquid after thawing.

2. The Importance of a Good Pie Crust

A well-made pie crust is just as important as the filling. For the best results, use a homemade pie crust made with high-quality butter or shortening to achieve a flaky texture. Keep the butter cold and handle the dough minimally to prevent it from becoming tough.

3. Prevent a Soggy Crust

Since strawberries and rhubarb release a lot of liquid during baking, it’s crucial to use the right thickener, such as cornstarch, to help set the filling. You can also blind bake the bottom crust for a few minutes before adding the filling to prevent sogginess.

4. Achieve the Perfect Sweet-Tart Balance

Rhubarb is naturally tart, so adjusting the sugar levels to balance the flavor is essential. If you prefer a less tart pie, increase the amount of sugar slightly. For a more tangy bite, keep the sugar moderate and allow the rhubarb’s natural flavors to shine.

5. Let the Pie Rest Before Serving

Once baked, the pie needs time to cool and set. Cutting into the pie too soon can result in a runny filling. Let it rest for at least 3-4 hours before slicing to allow the juices to thicken properly.

Variations of Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

While the classic Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is delightful on its own, there are several ways to customize it to suit different preferences.

• Crumble Topping: Instead of a traditional pie crust topping, add a streusel topping made from butter, flour, oats, and brown sugar for extra texture and sweetness.
• Almond or Vanilla Extract: Enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of almond or vanilla extract to the filling.
• Citrus Twist: A little bit of orange or lemon zest can brighten up the filling and add a refreshing citrus note.
• Mixed Berry Addition: Adding raspberries or blueberries along with strawberries can create an even more complex fruit filling.
• Gluten-Free or Vegan Options: Use a gluten-free pie crust or swap out butter for a vegan alternative to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is delicious on its own, but it can be elevated even further with simple serving suggestions:

• Classic Pairing: Serve a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds lightness and enhances the pie’s sweetness.
• Powdered Sugar Dusting: For a simple yet elegant touch, lightly dust the top with powdered sugar before serving.

Storage and Leftovers

If you have leftover pie, store it properly to maintain its freshness:

• Room Temperature: Keep the pie covered at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
• Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, covering with foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
• Freezing: For long-term storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

Conclusion:

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is a classic dessert that continues to be a favorite among pie lovers. Its perfect combination of sweet and tart flavors, coupled with a buttery, flaky crust, makes it a treat worth baking. Whether you enjoy it as a nostalgic comfort food or a showstopping dessert for gatherings, this pie is sure to bring joy to anyone who takes a bite. With the right ingredients, techniques, and a little bit of patience, you can create a perfect homemade Strawberry Rhubarb Pie that will impress your family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the best fruit pies of all time!