This recipe for Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that make it a favorite for dessert lovers. The crumb topping adds a unique twist to the classic pie crust, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive holidays like Easter. Whether you choose fresh or frozen fruit, this pie promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This pie comes together quickly, so you can enjoy delicious homemade dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavorful Filling: The combination of strawberries and rhubarb creates a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can use fresh or frozen fruits depending on what you have on hand, making it a year-round recipe.
- Unique Topping: The crumb topping offers an exciting alternative to traditional pie crust, adding texture and flavor.
- Perfect for Occasions: This pie is ideal for holidays or gatherings, sure to impress guests and family alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the deliciousness of your Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and enhance your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Pie dish: A deep dish provides ample space for the filling, ensuring a generous serving size.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients easily, helping maintain organization in your kitchen.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving perfect flavor balance in your pie.
Ingredients
For the Crumb Topping
- 1 1/4 cups flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) melted butter (see notes)
- 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (see notes)
For the Pie Filling
- 1 9 inch frozen, deep dish pie crust
- 3 cups sliced rhubarb (1/2 inch slices)
- 3 cups quartered strawberries (see note)
- 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 vanilla
How to Make Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced rhubarb and quartered strawberries.
- Add the packed light brown sugar, granulated sugar, cornstarch, salt, orange juice, and vanilla. Stir well until coated.
Step 2: Assemble the Pie
- Pour the fruit mixture into the frozen pie crust. Spread it evenly across the bottom.
Step 3: Make the Crumb Topping
- In another bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, nutmeg, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar.
- Use a pastry cutter or fork to combine until crumbly.
Step 4: Top and Bake
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the fruit filling.
- Bake in preheated oven for about 45–50 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping warm or at room temperature. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra treat!
How to Serve Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping
Serving Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping is a delightful experience. The sweet-tangy flavors can be complemented by various pairings that enhance the overall dessert experience.
A La Mode
- Serve warm pie slices topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast to the tartness.
Whipped Cream
- Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds fluffiness and richness, perfect for balancing the pie’s flavors.
Fresh Berries
- Garnish each slice with fresh strawberries or raspberries to amplify the berry taste and add a pop of color.
Mint Leaves
- A few sprigs of fresh mint can provide a refreshing touch that complements the sweetness of the pie.
Lemon Zest
- Sprinkle some lemon zest on top for an added zing that brightens the overall flavor profile.
How to Perfect Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping
To achieve the best results with your Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh rhubarb and strawberries when in season for the best flavor.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste your fruit mixture before baking and adjust sugar levels based on your preference.
- Chill your crust: Keep your frozen pie crust chilled until you’re ready to fill it to ensure a flaky texture.
- Watch baking time: Keep an eye on the pie while it bakes; cover edges with foil if they brown too quickly.
- Cool before serving: Allow the pie to cool completely so that the filling sets properly, making it easier to slice.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping
Pairing side dishes with Strawberry Rhubarb Pie can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances tart flavors.
- Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits enhances the dessert’s fruity notes.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch offers an unexpected but delightful contrast to sweet desserts.
- Pecan Sandies: These nutty cookies provide a crunchy texture that’s enjoyable alongside pie.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage helps cleanse the palate and complements dessert nicely.
- Granola Bars: For a lighter option, serve homemade granola bars that offer crunch and sweetness without overwhelming flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping is a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using the wrong fruit ratio: Ensure you balance the sweetness of strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb. Too much of either can throw off the flavor.
- Neglecting to taste the filling: Always taste your filling before baking. Adjust the sugar if necessary to suit your taste preferences.
- Ignoring the crust preparation: A frozen pie crust needs time to thaw. Don’t skip this step, as it ensures even baking and a better texture.
- Overmixing the crumb topping: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a tough topping rather than a crumbly one.
- Baking at incorrect temperatures: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly. An oven that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your pie’s texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pie in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping
- Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat. Cover and heat for about 5-10 minutes or until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fruit for Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping?
Yes, frozen strawberries and rhubarb work well! Just be sure to adjust sugar since frozen fruits tend to release more juice.
What can I substitute for apple cider vinegar?
A splash of lemon juice can serve as a great alternative if you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand.
How do I know when my pie is done baking?
Look for a golden crumb topping and bubbling juices around the edges. The filling should be thickened, not runny.
Can I make my own pie crust instead of using a store-bought one?
Absolutely! Homemade crusts add a personal touch and flavor but require extra time.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping is both sweet and tangy, making it an irresistible dessert option any day or for special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding spices like cinnamon or swapping out fruits based on your preferences!
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping
Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet and tangy with this Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Crumb Topping. This delightful dessert features a crisp crumb topping that elevates the classic pie, making it an excellent choice for any occasion—from cozy weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Whether you opt for fresh or frozen fruit, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy your pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an unforgettable treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 deep dish frozen pie crust
- 3 cups sliced rhubarb
- 3 cups quartered strawberries
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup flour (for crumb topping)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for crumb topping)
- 1 stick melted butter (for crumb topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine rhubarb and strawberries; mix in sugars, cornstarch, orange juice, and vanilla.
- Pour the fruit mixture into the frozen pie crust.
- For the crumb topping, mix flour, brown sugar, nutmeg, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping over the fruit filling and bake for 45–50 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
