Have you ever wondered how a simple combination of strawberries and rhubarb creates a pie that’s loved by so many? Strawberry rhubarb pie is not just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic blend of sweet and tart, evoking memories of summer picnics and family gatherings. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the delightful process of making a perfect Strawberry Rhubarb Pie, from ingredients to serving suggestions, ensuring that your pie baking journey is both successful and enjoyable.

Ingredients Needed

For the best Strawberry Rhubarb Pie, you’ll need:

2 cups all-purpose flour – This is the base for your pie crust, keeping it flaky and delicious.
2/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons shortening – Ensure a tender crust perfect for holding your fruity filling.
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
6 tablespoons ice cold water – Cold water helps in creating a flaky crust.
4 cups cut-up fresh rhubarb – Adds a tart punch to your pie.
2 cups cut-up fresh strawberries – Brings sweetness and a beautiful color to the dessert.
1 1/3 cup sugar – Balances the tartness of the rhubarb; adjust to your taste.
7 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps to absorb the juices from the fruit, preventing a soggy pie.

These fresh ingredients not only enhance your Strawberry Rhubarb Pie but also create a healthful dessert bursting with flavor and nutrition.

Timing

Preparation of your Strawberry Rhubarb Pie involves:

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 35 minutes

This timing is about 20% quicker than many traditional pie recipes, allowing you more time to enjoy your delicious pie!

How to Make Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Pie Crust

Combine Dry Ingredients: Place flour, shortening, and salt into a large plastic bowl. Using a pastry blender, cut in the shortening until you achieve a fine crumble.
Add Water: In the center of the mixture, add in 6 tablespoons of ice-cold water. Toss gently until a small ball forms in the bowl.
Form the Dough: With your hands, gently rake and scrape the ingredients together until mixed. Divide the ball into two equal halves and roll one out for the bottom crust.

For the Filling

Mix Fruits: In a large bowl, combine the cut rhubarb and strawberries. In another bowl, mix 1 1/3 cup sugar and 7 tablespoons of flour; adjust sugar if you prefer a tart pie.
Prepare Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of the flour and sugar mixture in the bottom of the pie crust. Add the fruit mixture and sprinkle the remaining flour/sugar mix over the top.
Assemble Pie: Roll out the top crust and position it over the filling. Crimp the edges together, then cut slits for ventilation. Brush the top crust with milk and sprinkle sugar over it.
Bake: Place the pie on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes. Lower the temperature to 325 degrees and continue baking for an hour. Keep an eye on the crust; if it turns golden brown too early, cover it with tin foil. Allow the pie to cool for several hours before serving, giving the filling time to set.

Nutritional Information

A slice of Strawberry Rhubarb Pie contains approximately:

Calories: 280
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 16g
Fat: 12g

This pie is a sweet treat with a good balance of fruit and sugar, making it a lovely dessert option when enjoyed in moderation.

Healthier Alternatives For Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Looking for a healthier twist? Consider these alternatives:

Crust Substitutes: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber. You can even use almond or oat flour for gluten-free options.
Sugar Variants: Substitute granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness, adjusting the amount as needed.
Filling Tweaks: Incorporate chia seeds for extra nutrients and thickness in the filling, or add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for additional flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your Strawberry Rhubarb Pie with these serving ideas:

Toppings: Serve warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
Pairing: Complement your pie with a cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee for a cozy experience.
Presentation: Garnish your pie slice with fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar for an attractive finish.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

To ensure your pie turns out perfect, be wary of these common pitfalls:

Overworking Dough: If you knead the dough too much, your crust can become tough instead of flaky.
Soggy Bottom: Pre-bake your crust lightly before adding the filling to avoid excess moisture.
Unrinsed Fruit: Rinse rhubarb and strawberries thoroughly to remove any debris and ensure even cooking.

Storing Tips For Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the deliciousness of your Strawberry Rhubarb Pie:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thoroughly thaw before serving.

Conclusion

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, perfect for any occasion. With this guide, you’ll not only bake a wholesome pie but also enjoy the process. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share your delicious outcomes. Join the conversation by leaving comments below or check out other delightful dessert recipes on our blog!

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I can’t find fresh rhubarb?

You can use frozen rhubarb, but ensure it’s fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare it a day in advance or freeze it for later enjoyment.

Is strawberry rhubarb pie gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free, but with a simple flour substitution, such as almond or gluten-free all-purpose flour, you can easily adapt it.

Can I substitute strawberries for another fruit?

Absolutely! You can mix in blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile while maintaining the essence of a fruit pie.

Now, why wait? Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the world of baking with this delectable Strawberry Rhubarb Pie!

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Author: linda
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Total Time: 95 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delightful blend of sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb, perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons shortening
1 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons ice cold water
4 cups cut-up fresh rhubarb
2 cups cut-up fresh strawberries
1 1/3 cup sugar
7 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees.
In a large bowl, combine flour, shortening, and salt. Cut in the shortening until you achieve a fine crumble.
Add ice-cold water to the center of the mixture and toss gently until a ball forms.
Divide the ball into two halves and roll out one for the bottom crust.
In another bowl, mix rhubarb and strawberries. In a separate bowl, combine sugar and flour; adjust sugar to preference.
Sprinkle some of the flour/sugar mixture in the bottom of the pie crust. Add the fruit mixture and sprinkle the remaining flour/sugar mix over the top.
Roll out the top crust and position it over the filling. Crimp the edges together and cut slits for ventilation.
Brush the top crust with milk and sprinkle sugar over it.
Bake for 15 minutes at 425 degrees, then lower to 325 degrees and continue baking for 1 hour. Allow cooling before serving.

Notes

Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra special treat.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 280
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: strawberry, rhubarb, pie, dessert, summer