Old Fashioned Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

There’s something undeniably special about the aroma of a warm, bubbling dessert wafting from the oven. Old Fashioned Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp captures this essence of pure comfort, wrapping you in a cozy embrace with each delicious bite. This dish rejuvenates fond memories of family gatherings, where homemade desserts take center stage. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an invitation to slow down and savor the simple pleasures in life.

At the heart of this delightful crisp lies a beautifully balanced combination of flavors. The sweetness of 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced, harmonizes perfectly with the tartness of 2 cups of chopped rhubarb. Toss them together with 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, bringing brightness to the mix. The topping is heavenly too, featuring 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter. A dash of 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of 1/4 teaspoon of salt rounds it all off. Together, these ingredients create an irresistible medley that is both sweet and slightly tangy, reminiscent of childhood summers spent picking strawberries.

Preparing this crisp is an enjoyable and straightforward task. You start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine your strawberry-rhubarb mixture in a bowl, then spread it into an even layer in your baking dish. Next, prepare the crumbly topping in a separate bowl, simply mixing the dry ingredients with melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle it over the delightful fruit mixture, and bake in the oven for 40-45 minutes. The result? A golden brown topping and bubbling fruit—heavenly!

Whether you are looking for the perfect dessert for chilly nights or a standout dish to take to a potluck, this Old Fashioned Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp is sure to brighten up your table. It’s a crowd-pleaser and a comforting dessert that will evoke smiles from everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

• Quick: All it takes is a few simple steps to create this delightful dessert.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have many of these ingredients in your pantry.
• Comfort Food: It’s a warm and satisfying dessert perfect for cozy dinners.
• Versatile: Great as a side dish or a stand-alone dessert.
• Nostalgic: Brings back childhood memories of homemade goodness.

Strawberry and Rhubarb Tips

When selecting your strawberries and rhubarb, freshness is key. Choose strawberries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant; avoid any that are bruised or soft. Similarly, for rhubarb, look for stalks that are crisp and vibrant. If the leaves are present, make sure they are bright and not wilted or discolored. Fresh ingredients yield the best flavor and texture in your crisp.

Options for Substitutions

• Oats: Use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version.
• Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
• Butter: Coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute can be used for a vegan option.
• Flour: Whole wheat flour can replace all-purpose flour for a healthier twist.
• Cinnamon: Try nutmeg or allspice for a different spice profile.
• Lemon Juice: Lime juice can offer a zesty, tropical touch.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

One common pitfall is overcooking the crisp. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking. You want the top to be golden brown but not burnt. If you mistakenly add too much sugar, the filling can become overly sweet. It’s best to taste your fruit mixture before baking.

Another common error is not allowing the crisp to cool slightly before serving. If you dive in too soon, the filling may be too hot and runny. Let it rest for a bit to set. Make sure the topping is evenly distributed over the fruit; this ensures that every bite has that perfect crunch.

What to Serve With Old Fashioned Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp?

This Old Fashioned Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp pairs wonderfully with several accompaniments. Consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the warm crisp. A dollop of whipped cream can add a luscious touch as well. For a lighter option, serve it alongside Greek yogurt for a delicious contrast in flavors. Lastly, a cup of hot tea or coffee can round out a perfect dessert experience.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to freeze the crisp, it can last in the freezer for about 3-4 months. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or pop it in the microwave for a few minutes, ensuring it’s heated through.

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: About 8

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
Calories: 1200-1400
Protein: 10-15 grams
Fat: 50-60 grams
Carbohydrates: 180-200 grams

Ingredients

• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare your baking dish by greasing it lightly or using a non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruit Mixture

In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of strawberries, 2 cups of rhubarb, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Mix well to ensure the fruit is coated. Spread this delightful mixture evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Combine the Topping Ingredients

In another mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir the ingredients together until they become crumbly.

Step 4: Assemble the Crisp

Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the fruit mixture in the baking dish. Make sure it covers the top completely for the best texture.

Step 5: Bake the Crisp

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Check for a golden brown topping and bubbling fruit.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the crisp from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This lets the filling set up a bit, making it easier to serve.

In summary, Old Fashioned Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp combines ease of preparation with delightful flavors that evoke nostalgia. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experiences or feedback. Explore other similar recipes on the blog for more delicious culinary adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this crisp ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the fruit filling and crumble topping separately and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake. This makes it easy to whip up a warm dessert quickly.

Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen strawberries and rhubarb can be used. Simply thaw them and drain any excess moisture before mixing them with sugar and lemon juice.

How do I get a crunchy topping?

To achieve a nice crunchy topping, ensure you mix the oats and flour with enough butter. Additionally, baking it until golden brown helps enhance that crispy texture.

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