Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Name: Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 cups strawberries (hulled and sliced); 2 cups rhubarb (chopped); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade); 1 tbsp butter (cut into small pieces); 1 egg (for egg wash)

Indulge in a slice of summer with this delightful strawberry rhubarb pie. Combining the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the tangy flavor of fresh rhubarb, this pie creates a perfect harmony of tastes that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled for a refreshing treat, this pie is sure to impress your family and friends at any gathering.

Ingredients

2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 cups rhubarb, chopped
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 tsp salt
1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
1 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces
1 egg (for egg wash)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 220 calories, 5g fat, 38g carbohydrates, 2g protein, and 3g dietary fiber. This nutritional information is based on a standard slice of pie.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a large bowl, combine the strawberries and rhubarb.
Add sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and salt to the fruit mixture.
Toss until the fruit is well-coated and let it sit for 10 minutes.
Roll out your pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
Pour the fruit mixture into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
Cover with a second pie crust or create a lattice top.
Brush the top crust with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes.

Alternative Ingredients

If you want to lighten the pie, you can substitute the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust instead of regular flour-based crust.

Serving and Pairings

This strawberry rhubarb pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Serve it warm or at room temperature alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap. It can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This pie can also be frozen for up to three months; just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic before freezing.

Cooking Mistakes

Not allowing the filling to rest can lead to a runny pie.
Overcooking the crust can result in a burnt bottom.
Using too much cornstarch can make the filling overly thick.
Forgetting to vent the top crust can cause it to bubble over.
Using unripe fruit can lead to a less flavorful pie.

Helpful Tips

Make sure to use fresh, ripe strawberries and rhubarb for the best flavor.
Chill your pie crust before rolling it out to prevent it from shrinking.
For added flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg in the filling.
Let the pie cool completely before slicing for cleaner pieces.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries and rhubarb?

Yes, you can use frozen fruits, but make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before adding them to the filling to avoid a soggy pie.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the vents.

Can I make the pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What can I do with leftover pie filling?

Leftover filling can be used as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or pancakes.

How should I serve the pie?

Serve the pie warm or cold, and consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for extra indulgence.

Conclusion

Strawberry rhubarb pie is a timeless dessert that beautifully balances sweet and tart flavors. With its flaky crust and vibrant filling, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results that will surely impress.