Name: Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups strawberries (quartered); 2 cups rhubarb (cleaned, ends trimmed, cut into 1/2-inch pieces); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/8 teaspoon coarse salt; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup packed brown sugar; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping); 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/8 teaspoon coarse salt (for topping); 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cut into small pieces); Ice cream or whipped cream (for serving)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Have you ever wondered why some desserts evoke warm memories while others fade from taste? The answer often lies in the right combination of flavors and textures. Strawberry rhubarb crumble is a classic dish that combines the sweet and tart flavors of strawberries and rhubarb, creating a mouthwatering experience. This post will guide you through making a delicious strawberry rhubarb crumble that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also impress your friends and family.

Ingredients Needed

To whip up this classic strawberry rhubarb crumble, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cups strawberries (quartered): These juicy red gems add natural sweetness and color.
2 cups rhubarb (cleaned, ends trimmed, cut into 1/2-inch pieces): Tangy and tart, rhubarb brings a unique flavor profile.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: This is essential for balancing the tartness of the rhubarb.
1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling, making it perfectly gooey.
1/8 teaspoon coarse salt: Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base of your crumble topping.
1/3 cup packed brown sugar: Adds moistness and a nice caramel flavor to the topping.
3 tablespoons granulated sugar: For sprinkling on top for extra sweetness.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Provides warm notes, enhancing the overall dessert.
1/8 teaspoon coarse salt: A pinch to balance the flavors in the crumble topping.
6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cut into small pieces): Creates that perfect, crumbly texture.
Ice cream or whipped cream: A delightful accompaniment to serve atop your crumble.

Timing

The preparation for this delightful dish takes approximately 20 minutes, with the cooking time around 45 minutes, totaling just 65 minutes. That’s about 20% less time than other dessert recipes, making this a quicker option for your guests!

How to Make Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F with the rack in the middle position. While the oven warms up, take a moment to coat a 9×9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures an easy release after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruit Filling

In a large bowl, toss together the quartered strawberries and cut rhubarb with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Make sure everything is mixed well and coated evenly. Once combined, pour this fruit mixture into your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Create the Crumble Topping

For the crumble, take a medium bowl and mix together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Work in the cold unsalted butter pieces with your hands until large, moist clumps form. This tactile process is crucial for achieving the ideal crumble texture. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the strawberry-rhubarb mixture.

Step 4: Bake

Place the dish on a foil-lined baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly and tender underneath.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

After baking, allow the crumble to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This small wait allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve warm with a generous scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream—pure bliss!

Nutritional Information

For a standard serving of strawberry rhubarb crumble (1/8 of the dish), you can expect approximately:

Calories: 230
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 100mg
Total Carbohydrates: 36g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 18g
Protein: 2g

This nutritional profile highlights just how indulgent this dessert can be, making it a treat to savor occasionally.

Healthier Alternatives for Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble

If you’re looking to make this dessert healthier without sacrificing flavor, consider these alternatives:

Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose to increase fiber content.
Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey. These alternatives can provide a lower glycemic index.
Use olive oil or coconut oil instead of butter for a healthier fat profile.
Add oats to the crumble topping for added fiber and texture.
Incorporate chia seeds for a boost of omega-3 fatty acids.

Serving Suggestions

While scrumptious on its own, here are some creative ways to serve your strawberry rhubarb crumble:

Serve it in individual ramekins for a charming presentation.
Pair it with a side of vanilla yogurt for a delicious breakfast option.
Top with toasted almonds or pistachios for added crunch and flair.
Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for an elegant finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your strawberry rhubarb crumble turns out perfectly, watch out for these pitfalls:

Using overripe strawberries: This can make the filling too watery. Choose firm, ripe strawberries for the best texture.
Not letting it cool: Serving immediately can cause everything to fall apart. 10-15 minutes of cooling is essential.
Skipping the cornstarch: This thickening agent is critical for a non-runny filling.
Overmixing the crumble: This can lead to a dense topping. Treat it gently.

Storing Tips for Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble

If you have leftovers (or if you’re prepping ahead), follow these storage tips:

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheat in the oven to retain the crispness of the crumble—350 degrees F for about 20 minutes.

Conclusion

Strawberry rhubarb crumble is not only a delightful dessert but also a simple yet elegant recipe that you can master with ease. With its irresistible combination of sweet and tart flavors, it’s bound to bring joy to any table. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your feedback or explore similar posts for more culinary inspiration!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make strawberry rhubarb crumble vegan?

Replace the butter with a vegan butter substitute and swap honey for maple syrup.

Can I use frozen fruit?

Yes! Just ensure you thaw and drain excess liquid from the fruit to maintain the right texture.

What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F for best results, maintaining the crumble’s texture.

Can I mix other fruits into the crumble?

Absolutely! Apples, blackberries, or even peaches can be delicious additions to the filling.

With this comprehensive guide, your adventure into the world of strawberry rhubarb crumble is just a few steps away. Happy baking!