Craving a burst of sweet and tart flavors? Look no further! This Strawberry-Rhubarb Pie recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. You’ll impress friends and family with fresh ingredients and an easy-to-follow method. From the flaky crust to the mouthwatering filling, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Get ready to savor this classic dessert and elevate your baking game—let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Fresh Fruits for the Filling
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
The heart of your pie lies in its fruit. I love using fresh strawberries and rhubarb. Strawberries bring sweetness, while rhubarb adds a nice tang. This mix gives your pie a great balance of flavors.
Sweetening and Thickening Agents
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
To enhance the fruit, you need sugar and cornstarch. Sugar sweetens, while cornstarch thickens the pie filling. Lemon juice adds brightness and helps balance the flavors. Vanilla gives a warm background note, and a touch of cinnamon adds depth. Salt helps all these flavors shine.
Pie Crust Options
– 1 package (14.1 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade if preferred)
– 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
For your crust, you can use store-bought or homemade. I often go for the convenience of refrigerated crusts. They save time and still taste great. Adding butter on top of the filling makes the pie richer and more flavorful.
You can find the full recipe above. Dive into creating this classic pie with these simple ingredients!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Filling
– Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
– In a bowl, mix strawberries and rhubarb. Add sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Gently toss until fruits are coated. Set aside for 15 minutes. This lets the flavors blend and juices form.
Assembling the Pie
– Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Leave some overhang.
– Pour the strawberry-rhubarb mixture into the crust. Spread it evenly. Dot the top with small pieces of butter. This adds flavor and richness.
Baking and Cooling
– Roll out the second crust. Cover the pie with it. Cut slits for steam to escape.
– Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes. Lower the heat to 350°F and bake for 30-35 minutes. Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling filling.
– Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours. This helps the filling set properly. You want nice clean slices.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Perfect Crust
To ensure a great pie crust, keep your ingredients cold. This helps the dough stay flaky. When rolling out your pie crust, use a lightly floured surface. Dust your rolling pin, too. Roll from the center outwards to keep it even. If the dough tears, just patch it back together. For a golden-brown crust, brush it with an egg wash. Mix one egg with a tablespoon of water. This adds color and shine.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost the flavor of your pie, consider adding spices. A pinch of nutmeg can add warmth. You can also use cardamom for a unique twist. Vanilla extract enhances sweetness. If you want a more tangy taste, add more lemon juice. Fresh herbs like mint can also brighten the flavor. Try pairing strawberries with basil or rhubarb with ginger. These combinations create a fun and refreshing taste.
Serving Suggestions
For the best experience, serve your pie warm or at room temperature. Warm pie brings out the flavors more. You can top it with vanilla ice cream for creaminess. Whipped cream also adds a nice touch. For a crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts on top. If you want a fancier look, dust with powdered sugar. You can even serve it with a side of yogurt for a tangy balance.
Variations
Alternative Fruit Combinations
You can mix in other fruits to change the flavor of your pie. Blueberries add a sweet touch, while peaches bring a nice softness. A mix of strawberries, rhubarb, and blueberries is delightful. You can try a 1:1:1 ratio for a balanced taste. If you want a stronger peach flavor, use 2 cups of peaches and 1 cup each of strawberries and rhubarb. This mix gives you a new twist on a classic pie.
Gluten-Free Option
If you need a gluten-free crust, you can make one using almond flour or oat flour. You can also buy pre-made gluten-free pie crusts. For thickening the filling, use cornstarch or arrowroot powder. This way, you can still enjoy a tasty pie without gluten.
Vegan Adaptations
To make this pie vegan, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. You can also use a store-bought vegan pie crust. For sweetening, maple syrup or coconut sugar works well. These swaps keep the pie delicious while meeting dietary needs. You can enjoy a classic dessert that’s friendly for everyone.
For more details on making this pie, check the Full Recipe.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your pie fresh, cool it completely after baking. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil. This keeps moisture in and prevents the crust from getting soggy. You can store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Long-Term Storage
Want to save some pie for later? You can freeze it! Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. The pie can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes to heat through.
Signs of Spoilage
Check for any off smells or changes in color. If the crust feels sticky or slimy, it may be bad. The best before date is 3 days for the fridge and 3 months for the freezer. Always trust your senses!
FAQs
How do I know when my strawberry-rhubarb pie is done?
You can tell your pie is done by looking at the crust and filling. The crust should be golden brown and crisp. The filling bubbles up through the slits in the top crust. This bubbling shows that the fruit is cooked and the juices are thick. If you see these signs, your pie is ready to enjoy!
Can I use frozen strawberries or rhubarb for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries or rhubarb. Just make sure to thaw them first. Drain any excess liquid to keep the filling from being too runny. You may want to add a bit more cornstarch to help thicken the juices. This will keep your pie from being soggy.
What are the best ways to serve strawberry-rhubarb pie?
Serving strawberry-rhubarb pie can be fun! I suggest pairing it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A scoop of ice cream adds a creamy touch to the sweet-tart pie. You can also serve it with a cup of tea or coffee. This adds warmth and makes the pie even more enjoyable.
In this blog post, I shared how to make a delicious strawberry-rhubarb pie. We covered fresh ingredients, step-by-step baking instructions, and tips for the perfect crust. I also included variations for gluten-free and vegan options, along with storage advice.
With these steps, you can bake a pie that delights everyone. Enjoy sharing this treat with family and friends. Baking this pie can be a fun adventure. Happy baking!
