This homemade Rhubarb Crumble Pie is a delightful summer dessert that brings together the tartness of fresh rhubarb and the sweetness of a crumbly topping. Perfect for picnics, family gatherings, or simply a sweet treat at home, this pie stands out with its vibrant flavors and easy preparation. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, you’ll find joy in crafting this classic dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is easy enough for anyone to tackle.
- Deliciously Tart and Sweet: The combination of fresh rhubarb and sugary crumble creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with ice cream or cold as a refreshing treat.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for summer barbecues, birthdays, or just because!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Rhubarb Crumble Pie, gather your essential tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pie plate
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Pastry cutter or fork
Importance of Each Tool
- Pie plate: Provides the right shape and depth for your pie to hold all that delicious filling.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients; having multiple sizes helps manage different components.
- Pastry cutter or fork: Ideal for cutting butter into dry ingredients to create that perfect crumble texture.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- 1 single pie crust
For the Filling
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour (divided)
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar (+ 1 tablespoon, divided)
- 5 cups chopped fresh rhubarb
- 1 lemon (zest only, optional)
For the Crumble Topping
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅓ cup cold butter
How to Make Rhubarb Crumble Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F. This ensures that your pie bakes evenly throughout.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Line a pie plate with a single pie crust and crimp the edges.
- In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of flour and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
- Sprinkle this mixture on the bottom of the crust to prevent sogginess.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb, ⅔ cup of sugar, remaining flour, and optional lemon zest.
- Gently stir until well combined before pouring into the prepared pie crust.
Step 4: Prepare the Crumble Topping
- In a medium bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, white sugar, and ground cinnamon.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle this crumble topping evenly over the rhubarb filling.
Step 5: Bake
Place the pie on the bottom rack of your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F.
Step 6: Adjust Temperature
Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and continue baking for an additional 45 minutes or until filling is bubbly and topping is golden brown.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Allow your Rhubarb Crumble Pie to cool completely before serving to let flavors meld beautifully.
Now enjoy this delightful dessert with friends and family!
How to Serve Rhubarb Crumble Pie
Serving rhubarb crumble pie can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious treat:
A La Mode
- Serve a slice of warm rhubarb crumble pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
With Whipped Cream
- Top the pie with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy addition that complements the tartness of the rhubarb.
Accompanied by Custard
- Drizzle warm vanilla custard over each slice for a rich and creamy pairing that enhances the flavors.
On a Dessert Platter
- Cut the pie into small slices and arrange them on a platter, paired with fresh strawberries or raspberries for color and freshness.
With Tea or Coffee
- Serve slices alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat, perfect for gatherings or quiet moments.
How to Perfect Rhubarb Crumble Pie
Making the best rhubarb crumble pie involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out perfectly:
Use Fresh Rhubarb: Fresh rhubarb has the best flavor and texture. Avoid using frozen rhubarb as it may release too much moisture during baking.
Balance Sweetness: Adjust the sugar based on your taste and the tartness of the rhubarb. Taste the filling before baking to find your ideal sweetness.
Chill Your Butter: Keeping your butter cold helps create that perfect crumbly topping when mixed with flour and sugar.
Don’t Skip Pre-Baking: Pre-baking at a high temperature helps set the crust and prevents it from becoming soggy due to the rhubarb filling.
Best Side Dishes for Rhubarb Crumble Pie
Pairing side dishes with your rhubarb crumble pie can enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:
Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice; its creamy sweetness balances the tartness of the pie beautifully.
Fresh Berries: Raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries add freshness and vibrant color that complement the pie’s flavors.
Creamy Custard: Warm vanilla custard provides a rich contrast that enhances every bite of your dessert.
Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a sweet touch that works well with the tangy rhubarb filling.
Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well, offering savory notes against the sweet-tart pie.
Coffee or Herbal Tea: A warm beverage rounds out the meal, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or quiet evenings at home.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a rhubarb crumble pie, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using the wrong type of rhubarb: Not all rhubarb is created equal. Make sure to use fresh, bright stalks for the best flavor and texture.
- Skipping the lemon zest: Lemon zest enhances the flavors of rhubarb. Don’t skip this optional ingredient as it adds brightness and complexity.
- Overmixing the crumble topping: Mixing too much can lead to a dense topping. Only mix until the butter is incorporated and the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Not letting it cool before serving: Serving immediately can result in a runny filling. Allow the pie to cool completely for better slicing and presentation.
- Baking at incorrect temperatures: Be sure to follow the baking temperatures closely. Starting high helps set the crust, while lowering it ensures even cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep it covered with plastic wrap or foil if you don’t have a container.
Freezing Rhubarb Crumble Pie
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
- Consider slicing before freezing for easier individual servings later.
Reheating Rhubarb Crumble Pie
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making rhubarb crumble pie.
What is Rhubarb Crumble Pie?
Rhubarb crumble pie is a delightful dessert made with fresh rhubarb, sugar, and topped with a crumbly mixture that bakes into a golden layer.
How do I know when my Rhubarb Crumble Pie is done?
The pie is done when the filling bubbles up and the topping turns golden brown. A toothpick inserted should come out clean from the filling.
Can I use frozen rhubarb for this pie?
Yes, frozen rhubarb can be used but make sure it’s thawed and excess moisture is drained before mixing it with sugar.
What can I serve with Rhubarb Crumble Pie?
This pie pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added sweetness and creaminess.
Final Thoughts
This homemade rhubarb crumble pie is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different spices or fruits like strawberries. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Rhubarb Crumble Pie
Indulge in the delightful flavors of homemade Rhubarb Crumble Pie, a quintessential summer dessert that beautifully balances the tartness of fresh rhubarb with a sweet, buttery crumble topping. This pie is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion—whether it’s family gatherings, picnics, or a simple treat at home. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoy it chilled on a hot day. With its vibrant colors and comforting taste, this classic dessert is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 single pie crust
- 5 cups chopped fresh rhubarb
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour (divided)
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar (+ 1 tablespoon, divided)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (for the crumble)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for the crumble)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅓ cup cold butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Line a pie plate with the pie crust; crimp edges and sprinkle bottom with a mix of 1 tablespoon flour and 1 tablespoon sugar.
- In a large bowl, combine rhubarb, remaining sugar, remaining flour, and optional lemon zest. Pour into crust.
- For the crumble topping, mix flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon; cut in cold butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over filling.
- Bake on the bottom rack for 15 minutes at 425°F. Reduce temperature to 350°F; bake an additional 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Cool completely before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
