Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is a classic dessert that brings together the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. With a flaky crust and a juicy filling, this pie is a delightful treat for any occasion, whether it's a summer picnic or a cozy winter evening.
The key to this pie is the balance between the strawberries and rhubarb. The natural sweetness of the strawberries complements the tartness of rhubarb, creating a harmonious filling. The granulated sugar adds necessary sweetness to counter the tartness, while all-purpose flour thickens the filling as it bakes. A hint of ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth, and a dash of salt enhances all the flavors. A splash of lemon juice brightens everything up, and unsalted butter enriches the filling, making it luscious and satisfying.
This pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more indulgent experience, serve it slightly warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese for a unique twist.
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your pie will bake evenly. Next, grab a large bowl and combine your sliced strawberries, chopped rhubarb, sugar, flour, cinnamon, salt, and lemon juice. Stir them together until the fruit is well-coated. Set that aside for a moment.
Roll out one of your pie crusts and gently place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Pour in your fruit mixture, spreading it out evenly. Dot the top of the fruit with small cubes of butter. This will melt as the pie bakes, adding richness to the filling.
Now, roll out the second pie crust and lay it over the filling. You’ll want to crimp the edges to seal everything inside. Don’t forget to cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape, which helps prevent a soggy pie.
Brush the top crust with a beaten egg to give it a golden finish. Sprinkle some coarse sugar over that for a bit of sparkle and extra sweetness. Place your pie in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 45 minutes, or until you see a golden crust and bubbling filling.
Once baked, let the pie cool before serving. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice and serve.