Rhubarb Strawberry Pie

By Ashley

October 5, 2024

3 min read

Rhubarb Strawberry Pie

Baking a classic Rhubarb Strawberry Pie is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of spring and summer. This timeless dessert combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of strawberries, creating a harmonious blend that is both refreshing and comforting. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through the process of making a perfect Rhubarb Strawberry Pie that will impress your family and friends.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for the Crust

To start, you’ll need the following ingredients for the pie crust:

2 ¹⁄₂ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
¹⁄₄ to ¹⁄₂ cup ice-cold water

Ingredients for the Filling

For the filling, gather these ingredients:

4 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup granulated sugar
¹⁄₄ cup cornstarch
¹⁄₂ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¹⁄₄ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions for the Crust

Begin by preparing the pie crust. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Gradually add the ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together. You may not need all the water, so add it sparingly. Once the dough is formed, divide it into two equal pieces, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Instructions for the Filling

While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb, sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Mix well to ensure the fruit is evenly coated with the sugar and spices.

Set the bowl aside and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to release from the fruit.

Assembling the Pie

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one of the chilled dough pieces to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press the dough into the dish, making sure to cover the bottom and sides evenly. Trim any excess dough from the edges.

Spoon the rhubarb and strawberry filling into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Roll out the second piece of dough and place it over the filling. Crimp the edges to seal the pie, and cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Brush the top of the pie with a beaten egg or a bit of milk for a golden crust, and sprinkle with a bit of sugar if desired.

Baking the Pie

Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield.

Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to slice.

🍴 Note: For a more rustic look, you can use a lattice crust instead of a solid top crust. Simply roll out the second piece of dough and cut it into strips before weaving them over the filling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Rhubarb Strawberry Pie warm or at room temperature, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. The combination of the tart rhubarb and sweet strawberries makes this pie a perfect dessert for any occasion.

If you have leftovers, store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the oven or microwave before serving.

For a fun twist, try adding a streusel topping to your pie. Mix together 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup cold butter, and a pinch of cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture over the filling before adding the top crust.

You can also experiment with different fruit combinations. While rhubarb and strawberries are a classic pairing, you can substitute or add other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or apples for a unique flavor profile.

For a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

If you prefer a no-bake option, you can make a Rhubarb Strawberry Pie using a graham cracker crust and a gelatin-based filling. This version is quicker to prepare and can be a refreshing alternative during warmer months.

To make a no-bake version, crush graham crackers and mix with melted butter to form the crust. In a separate bowl, combine rhubarb and strawberry puree with gelatin, sugar, and a bit of water. Heat the mixture until the gelatin dissolves, then pour it over the crust and refrigerate until set.

For a healthier option, reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and use whole wheat flour for the crust. You can also add a bit of honey or maple syrup to enhance the natural sweetness of the fruits.

If you're short on time, you can use a store-bought pie crust instead of making your own. This will save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on preparing the filling and assembling the pie.

For a more decorative touch, use a cookie cutter to create shapes from the leftover dough and place them on top of the pie before baking. You can also brush the top crust with a bit of milk and sprinkle it with coarse sugar for added texture and sweetness.

To ensure your pie has a beautiful golden crust, brush the top with a beaten egg or a bit of milk before baking. This will give the crust a shiny, appetizing finish.

If you're making the pie ahead of time, you can prepare the crust and filling separately and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble. This can be done up to a day in advance, making it easier to manage your time on the day of baking.

For a more traditional look, use a pie bird or a decorative pie dish to shape your pie. This can add a charming touch to your dessert and make it stand out at any gathering.

If you're looking to impress your guests, consider serving your Rhubarb Strawberry Pie with a side of fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This will add a touch of elegance to your presentation and enhance the overall dining experience.

For a fun activity, involve your family or friends in the baking process. Making a Rhubarb Strawberry Pie together can be a great way to spend quality time and create lasting memories.

If you're new to baking, don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect. With practice and patience, you'll soon be able to create a delicious Rhubarb Strawberry Pie that everyone will love.

For a unique twist, try adding a layer of cream cheese or custard between the crust and the filling. This will add a rich, creamy texture to your pie and complement the tart and sweet flavors of the fruit.

If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different spices and flavorings. Adding a pinch of cardamom, ginger, or vanilla extract can enhance the flavor profile of your pie and make it truly one-of-a-kind.

For a festive touch, decorate your pie with edible flowers or fresh herbs. This will add a pop of color and a touch of natural beauty to your dessert.

If you're hosting a large gathering, consider making multiple pies to ensure there's enough for everyone. You can also prepare individual-sized pies or tartlets for a more personalized touch.

For a healthier option, use a low-sugar or sugar-free pie crust and reduce the amount of sugar in the filling. You can also substitute some of the fruit with apples or pears for added fiber and nutrients.

If you're looking to save time, prepare the filling and crust the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This will make the assembly process quicker and easier on the day of baking.

For a more rustic look, use a lattice crust instead of a solid top crust. Simply roll out the second piece of dough and cut it into strips before weaving them over the filling.

If you're short on time, use a store-bought pie crust instead of making your own. This will save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on preparing the filling and assembling the pie.