Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp: A Seasonal Delight

Strawberry rhubarb crisp is the perfect dessert for the early spring months when both strawberries and rhubarb are in season. The combination of sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb, topped with a buttery, oat-based crumble, creates a delicious contrast of flavors and textures. This dessert is incredibly simple to prepare yet impressive enough to serve for any occasion. Best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, strawberry rhubarb crisp is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients

For 6 servings:

• 500 g strawberries, hulled and halved
• 300 g rhubarb, chopped
• 100 g oats
• 100 g butter, softened
• 100 g flour
• 100 g brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Preparation

Preparing the Fruit Filling

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberries, rhubarb, and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine.
3. Transfer the fruit mixture to a greased 9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Making the Crumble Topping

1. In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Add the softened butter and rub it in with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the fruit mixture in the baking dish.

Baking the Crisp

1. Bake the crisp in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.

Serving

Remove the crisp from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Tips and Variations

• Use different fruits: You can substitute the strawberries and rhubarb with other seasonal fruits such as blueberries, peaches, or apples.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free for a gluten-free version of this crisp.
• Add nuts: For added texture, consider adding chopped almonds or pecans to the crumble topping.

FAQ

Can I make the crisp ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crisp a day in advance. Simply assemble the fruit and topping, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, take it out of the fridge and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Can I use frozen fruit?

Yes, frozen strawberries and rhubarb will work well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before assembling the crisp.

How do I store leftover crisp?

Store leftover crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes before serving.

Conclusion

Strawberry rhubarb crisp is a comforting, easy-to-make dessert that showcases the best of spring's produce. Whether you're enjoying it as a cozy family treat or serving it at a dinner party, this dessert will delight your guests with its irresistible combination of sweet and tart flavors. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it's a perfect recipe for those new to baking or seasoned pros alike.