Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Recipe:
Celebrate Summer's Sweet-Tart Classic
Every year on June 9th, pie lovers across the country celebrate one of the most beloved desserts of early summer: National Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Day.
With its perfect balance of sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb, this classic pie has been bringing families together around kitchen tables, picnic blankets, and holiday gatherings for generations. It's a dessert that feels like sunshine, backyard gardens, and summer memories all wrapped into a flaky golden crust.
Whether you're an experienced baker or simply looking for a delicious seasonal treat, Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is one of those recipes that never goes out of style.
So grab your rolling pin and let's celebrate one of summer's most iconic desserts.
Why Strawberry and Rhubarb Are the Perfect Pair
Strawberries are naturally sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
Rhubarb, on the other hand, is famously tart.
Together, they create one of the most balanced flavor combinations in baking.
The strawberries soften rhubarb's sharp tang, while the rhubarb keeps the filling from becoming overly sweet. The result is a pie that's bright, refreshing, and incredibly satisfying.
It's no wonder this combination has remained a favorite for generations.
Meet the Rhubarb Plant
Despite often being used in desserts, rhubarb isn't actually a fruit.
It's a vegetable.
Here are a few fascinating facts about this unique plant:
Rhubarb Is a Perennial
Once planted, rhubarb returns year after year, making it a favorite among home gardeners.
Only the Stalks Are Edible
The red and green stalks are used in recipes, but the leaves should never be eaten because they contain high levels of oxalic acid.
It Loves Cooler Climates
Rhubarb thrives in northern growing regions and is often harvested throughout spring and early summer.
More Than Just Pie
While pie may be its most famous use, rhubarb also works beautifully in:
jams
crisps
cobblers
sauces
muffins
Classic Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Recipe
Ingredients
Filling
3 cups chopped rhubarb
3 cups sliced strawberries
1 cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
Crust
1 double pie crust (top and bottom)
1 beaten egg
1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional)
🍴 Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to:
425°F (220°C)
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
rhubarb
strawberries
sugar
flour
cornstarch
lemon juice
vanilla
salt
Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Place the bottom crust into a 9-inch pie plate.
Pour the filling into the crust and spread evenly.
Cover with the top crust.
Seal and crimp the edges.
Cut several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Brush the crust with beaten egg.
Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
This creates a beautiful golden finish and adds a touch of sparkle.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for:
20 minutes at 425°F
Then reduce the temperature to:
350°F (175°C)
Continue baking for an additional 35–40 minutes until the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing.
This helps the filling set properly and prevents it from becoming runny.
Delicious Variations to Try
One of the best things about Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is how easily it can be customized.
Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble Pie
Skip the top crust entirely.
Instead, top the filling with:
¾ cup flour
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup oats
½ cup butter
Bake until golden and crisp.
The crumble topping adds wonderful texture and extra sweetness.
Strawberry Rhubarb Lattice Pie
Create a woven lattice top crust for a beautiful bakery-style presentation.
It's easier than it looks and always impresses guests.
Berry Boost Pie
Add:
½ cup blueberries
or
½ cup raspberries
for an extra layer of berry flavor.
Citrus Twist
Add:
orange zest
or
a splash of orange juice
to brighten the filling even more.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is wonderful on its own, but a few simple additions make it even better.
Try serving it with:
vanilla ice cream
whipped cream
fresh strawberries
a drizzle of caramel sauce
The contrast between warm pie and cold ice cream is hard to beat.
A Taste of Summer Travel
One of the joys of travel is discovering seasonal foods and regional specialties.
Throughout many farming communities across North America, rhubarb season is a celebrated part of spring and early summer.
Local farmers markets often feature:
fresh rhubarb
homemade pies
preserves
baked goods
Exploring these markets can be one of the most rewarding experiences for food-loving travelers.
Whether you're wandering through a charming small-town festival, visiting a countryside bakery, or enjoying a summer road trip, you'll often find strawberry rhubarb pie waiting nearby.
Celebrate the Season
National Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Day is the perfect excuse to slow down, bake something special, and enjoy one of summer's most iconic desserts.
It's a reminder that some of life's sweetest moments come from simple traditions shared with family and friends.
So grab some fresh strawberries, pick up a few stalks of rhubarb, and celebrate the flavors of the season.
Because great food creates memories—and sometimes those memories inspire your next adventure.
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Happy National Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Day!
