
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb, you’re in for a treat. This Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp Recipe will guide you through the steps to create a delicious and balanced dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth. With fresh ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be able to whip up this delightful treat in no time.
Ingredients:
Let’s start by listing the ingredients you’ll need for this mouthwatering dessert:
Ingredients | Amount |
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Sliced strawberries | 3 cups |
Sliced rhubarb | 3 cups |
Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup |
Cornstarch | 1/4 cup |
Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
Rolled oats | 1 cup |
Packed brown sugar | 1 cup |
Salt | 1/2 tsp |
Unsalted butter, melted | 1/2 cup |
Instructions:
Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making this delicious Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp:
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- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Fruit Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sliced rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mix well, ensuring that the fruit is evenly coated.
- Prepare the Crumb Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and salt. Mix thoroughly, then add the melted butter and stir until the mixture forms small clumps.
- Layer the Fruit Mixture: Pour the fruit mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add the Crumb Topping: Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the top of the fruit, making sure to cover it completely.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the crisp in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown, and the fruit is bubbling.
- Cool Before Serving: Remove the crisp from the oven and allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Why Strawberry and Rhubarb Work So Well Together
Strawberries and rhubarb are a classic combination for a reason. The naturally sweet flavor of strawberries perfectly balances rhubarb’s tartness. According to the USDA, both fruits are rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Rhubarb, despite being used as a fruit in desserts, is botanically a vegetable and contains important compounds such as calcium and vitamin K.
By combining these two ingredients, you create a naturally flavorful base that doesn’t require excessive added sugar, making this crisp a more wholesome option compared to other desserts.
Ingredients for Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this fruity and crunchy treat:
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Sliced strawberries | 3 cups |
Sliced rhubarb | 3 cups |
Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup |
Cornstarch | 1/4 cup |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
Rolled oats | 1 cup |
Packed brown sugar | 1 cup |
Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Unsalted butter, melted | 1/2 cup |
Tip: Choose fresh, organic strawberries and rhubarb when possible to maximize nutrient content and flavor.
How to Make Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp (Step-by-Step Instructions)
This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready by the time your crisp is assembled. Preheating ensures even baking from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Fruit Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
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3 cups sliced strawberries
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3 cups sliced rhubarb
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3/4 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 cup cornstarch
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Stir well until the fruit is fully coated. The cornstarch helps thicken the juices as they cook, creating a luscious fruit base.
Nutrition Note: According to MyPlate.gov, adding fruits like strawberries to your diet supports overall health and immune function.
Step 3: Prepare the Crumble Topping
In another bowl, mix:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 cup rolled oats
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1 cup packed brown sugar
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1/2 teaspoon salt
Then stir in:
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1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
Combine until the mixture becomes crumbly but moist. This will form the golden topping that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
Health Tip: Using oats adds heart-healthy fiber. You can also substitute whole wheat flour or reduce the sugar slightly for a lighter version.
Step 4: Assemble the Crisp
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the fruit mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the fruit, making sure it covers the entire surface.
Step 5: Bake
Place the dish on the center rack of your oven. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit juices are bubbling around the edges.
Pro Tip: If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 6: Let It Cool
Once baked, remove the crisp from the oven and allow it to cool for 10–15 minutes. This resting time helps the filling thicken and makes it easier to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience with:
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A scoop of vanilla ice cream
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A dollop of whipped cream
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A drizzle of Greek yogurt for a protein-rich topping
Make it vegan: Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine.
Storage and Reheating Tips
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through.
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Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 30–45 seconds or re-crisp in the oven for best texture.
Customization Ideas
This recipe is versatile. Here are some ways to tailor it to your taste or dietary needs:
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Add chopped nuts (like pecans or almonds) to the crumble for extra crunch and nutrition.
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Use coconut sugar or maple syrup as a more natural sweetener.
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Make it gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats and replacing the flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
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Boost the fruit content with chopped apples or blueberries for added variety.
Nutritional Profile (Estimated Per Serving)
Based on 12 servings; actual values may vary:
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Calories: ~280–320
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Total Fat: ~12g
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Carbohydrates: ~45g
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Fiber: ~3g
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Sugars: ~25g
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Protein: ~3g
This dessert offers fiber and antioxidants, especially from strawberries and oats. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Final Thoughts: A Simple, Crowd-Pleasing Dessert
This Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp offers the best of homemade baking—comfort, flavor, and freshness—all in an easy-to-follow format. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a weekend treat, this dessert delivers nostalgic taste with a health-conscious twist.
Use it as a base recipe, and feel free to make it your own with fresh market produce, seasonal twists, or diet-friendly substitutions. It’s proof that simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can result in a truly satisfying dessert.