7 Reasons Why This Fresh Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Is the Best Dessert Recipe

When summer arrives, it brings with it the perfect opportunity to indulge in fresh, seasonal fruits, and few combinations are as beloved as strawberry rhubarb pie. The tartness of rhubarb paired with the sweetness of strawberries creates a flavor profile that’s refreshing, balanced, and completely irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned pie maker or a beginner, this strawberry rhubarb pie recipe is the ultimate dessert to showcase the best of spring and summer.

Not only is this pie visually stunning with its rich, ruby-red filling, but it also captures the essence of summer in every bite. It’s the perfect dessert for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even just a casual evening treat. With a buttery, flaky crust and a filling that’s both sweet and tangy, this rhubarb pie is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

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Why You’ll Love This Fresh Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

There are so many reasons why this fresh strawberry rhubarb pie should be your go-to dessert for the summer months:

• The balance of sweet and tart: The tangy rhubarb balances perfectly with the sweet strawberries, creating a filling that is neither too sweet nor too sour.
• Seasonal and fresh ingredients: With fresh strawberries and rhubarb, this pie uses ingredients at their peak, bringing natural flavor to the dessert.
• Simple yet sophisticated: The flavor combination may be classic, but the pie is elevated by a buttery, flaky crust that melts in your mouth with every bite.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or bringing a dessert to a potluck, this rhubarb pie will be a showstopper.

For those who are looking for more rhubarb desserts to try, you can check out this Rhubarb Crumble recipe, which brings a unique twist to the classic flavors of rhubarb!

Ingredients for Fresh Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Recipe:

For the pie crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup ice water

For the filling:

• 3 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar (adjust to taste depending on sweetness of fruit)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a warm touch)

For the top:

• 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces (to dot on top of the filling)
• 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing on the crust)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling on top)

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful, balanced filling with a perfectly crispy crust. Using rhubarb recipes pie is a great way to enjoy the flavors of rhubarb in a dessert, and the strawberries add a natural sweetness that complements the rhubarb’s tartness.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Perfect Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

To make this strawberry rhubarb pie filling come to life, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials:

• Pie dish (9-inch is ideal)
• Rolling pin (if making your own pie crust)
• Mixing bowls (for combining filling ingredients)
• Pastry cutter or food processor (to make the pie crust)
• Sharp knife (to chop rhubarb and strawberries)
• Basting brush (for applying milk to the top of the crust)

With these basic tools, you’ll be able to make a beautifully crafted rhubarb desserts pie that everyone will rave about.

How to Make Fresh Strawberry Rhubarb Pie (Step-by-Step)

Making fresh strawberry rhubarb pie from scratch is easier than you might think. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar for the crust. Cut the chilled butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Slowly add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb, sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon (if using). Stir gently to combine. Let the filling sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the sugar to draw out the juices from the fruit.

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Step 3: Roll Out the Crust

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a circle that fits your 9-inch pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough into the pie dish, pressing gently into the bottom and up the sides.

Roll out the second disc of dough and cut it into strips for a lattice top, or simply use the whole disc to cover the pie and make slits for venting.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour the prepared filling into the bottom crust, then dot the top of the filling with small pieces of butter. Cover with the lattice strips, or place the whole dough circle on top and cut slits in it to allow steam to escape during baking. Crimp the edges of the crust to seal it and brush the top with milk, then sprinkle with sugar for a golden, shiny finish.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Place the pie in the oven and bake for 45-50 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 to prevent burning.

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Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and the flavors to meld together. Serve your fresh strawberry rhubarb pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.

Why This Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is a Must-Try Rhubarb Dessert

This rhubarb pie is a crowd favorite for many reasons:

• The tart and sweet combo: The tanginess of rhubarb balances beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries, creating a perfect harmony of flavors that are familiar yet exciting.
• Fresh, seasonal ingredients: By using fresh rhubarb and strawberries, this pie highlights the natural flavors of these beloved fruits, making it the ideal dessert for spring and summer.
• A classic that’s easy to love: Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this strawberry rhubarb pie recipe is simple to follow and always delivers delicious results.

For more rhubarb desserts recipes, check out this Rhubarb Crisp, which offers another way to enjoy rhubarb in a sweet, easy-to-make dessert.

Creative Variations for Your Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

While this strawberry rhubarb pie is perfect on its own, here are some variations you can try:

• Add other fruits: Experiment with mixing in other fruits like blueberries, blackberries, or even apples for a twist on the classic strawberry rhubarb recipes.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and a gluten-free crust for a version of this dessert that’s accessible to everyone.
• Top with streusel: Instead of a traditional top crust, try a buttery streusel topping to add extra crunch and sweetness.

These creative variations make this pie even more versatile and allow you to customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs.

How to Store and Serve Fresh Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

To keep your strawberry rhubarb pie filling fresh and delicious:

• Storing: Cover the pie and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pie is best served within the first couple of days, but it will still taste great even after a few days of refrigeration.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, just add an extra 15-20 minutes of baking time.
• Serving: This pie is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled. It pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a scoop of sorbet for a refreshing contrast.

Pair This Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with Other Delicious Rhubarb Desserts

If you love this rhubarb pie, here are a few more rhubarb desserts to try:

• Rhubarb Strawberry Crumble – A warm and comforting dessert perfect for any time of year.
• Strawberry Rhubarb Jam – Preserve the flavors of rhubarb and strawberries to enjoy all year long.
• Rhubarb Lemon Bars – A tart and sweet dessert that’s perfect for spring and summer.

These pie filling recipes are great companions to your fresh strawberry rhubarb pie and will allow you to explore more ways to enjoy this incredible fruit.

Why Rhubarb is the Secret Ingredient to Perfect Pie

Rhubarb is often considered the unsung hero in many desserts, and it’s no surprise it’s such a popular addition to pies. Its tartness balances the sweetness of other ingredients, such as strawberries, while providing a refreshing and slightly tangy flavor that makes desserts like pies truly special. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients like fiber and vitamin C, making it a beneficial addition to your sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

To ensure your strawberry rhubarb pie turns out perfectly:

• Don’t over-sweeten: Rhubarb naturally adds a tangy flavor, so you may not need as much sugar as you think. Adjust the sugar to suit your taste and the sweetness of your fruit.
• Avoid a soggy crust: If your filling is too watery, cook it down a bit before adding it to the crust to avoid sogginess.
• Let it cool: Don’t skip the cooling time! Let the pie cool completely so the filling sets properly, preventing a runny mess when slicing.

The Health Benefits of Rhubarb and Strawberries in Your Pie

While strawberry rhubarb pie is undeniably delicious, it also offers some nutritional benefits:

• Strawberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, supporting immune health and digestion.
• Rhubarb is packed with fiber, vitamin K, and various antioxidants, offering potential anti-inflammatory benefits.

So, while enjoying this dessert, you’re also nourishing your body with vitamins and antioxidants!

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FAQs About Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Can I use frozen rhubarb?
Yes! Frozen rhubarb works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the filling.

Can I use a pre-made pie crust?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a pre-made pie crust is a great option. Just be sure to bake it according to package instructions before filling.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the pie the day before and store it in the refrigerator. It will taste just as good the next day!

Final Thoughts: A Classic Pie Recipe for Every Occasion

This Fresh Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is the perfect dessert for summer, combining the sweetness of strawberries and the tangy kick of rhubarb. With its easy-to-follow recipe and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or simply craving a slice of pie, this dessert is guaranteed to impress.

Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. Be sure to subscribe to our blog for more rhubarb desserts, pie recipes, and other delicious treats!

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