Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble Recipe

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Cook Time: 75 minutes

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Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup slivered almonds
• 1 3/4 cups white sugar, divided
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
• 6 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
• 4 cups fresh rhubarb, cut into 1/2-inch slices, or frozen unsweetened sliced rhubarb
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• Sweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional)

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C).
2. For the topping: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, slivered almonds, 3/4 cup sugar, melted butter, lemon zest, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir the mixture until clumps form. Cover and refrigerate the topping while you prepare the filling.
3. For the filling: In a very large bowl, mix together the strawberries and rhubarb.
4. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 cup sugar, cornstarch, and the other 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir the mixture well, then add it to the fruit. Toss the fruit and sugar mixture together to evenly coat.
5. Transfer the fruit mixture into a 3-quart rectangular baking dish. If you're using frozen rhubarb, allow the fruit mixture to stand for 45 minutes at room temperature before proceeding.
6. Evenly cover the fruit filling with the chilled topping.
7. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the fruit is bubbly in the center and the topping turns golden. If you're using frozen fruit, the baking time may extend to about 1 1/2 hours. If the topping begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with foil and continue baking.
8. Let the crisp stand for 30 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
9. Serve warm or at room temperature. If desired, top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	388
Total Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	24mg
Sodium	183mg
Total Carbohydrates	62g
Dietary Fiber	5g
Total Sugars	41g
Protein	5g
Vitamin C	66mg
Calcium	91mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	391mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The History and Charm of Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble

The Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble is a quintessentially American dessert, cherished for its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Its roots trace back to early colonial America when settlers adapted European fruit desserts to the ingredients available in the New World. Rhubarb, originally grown for medicinal purposes, became popular as a pie and crumble filling in the 18th century due to its vibrant tartness, which pairs beautifully with sweeter fruits like strawberries.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

This dessert exhibits subtle regional differences across the United States. In New England, crumbles often feature a generous buttery oat topping, emphasizing a rustic texture. In the Midwest, almond flour or slivered almonds are incorporated into the topping, adding a delicate nuttiness that contrasts with the tangy rhubarb. Some Southern versions might lightly spice the filling with cinnamon or nutmeg, offering a warm twist to the springtime classic.

Distinguishing It From Similar Desserts

While it is often compared to pies or crisps, a crumble is unique for its loose, clumpy topping that bakes into a crunchy, golden crust rather than a firm pastry shell. Unlike crisps, which rely heavily on oats, a crumble may use a mix of flour, butter, and nuts to achieve a tender, buttery crunch. The strawberry-rhubarb pairing adds a striking balance of sweet and tart flavors, which sets it apart from other fruit-based desserts.

Typical Serving Occasions

Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble is commonly served as a dessert during spring and early summer when rhubarb and strawberries are at their peak. It is popular at family gatherings, potlucks, and seasonal celebrations like Mothers Day or Memorial Day. The dish is traditionally served warm, often accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, enhancing the contrast between the hot, bubbling filling and the cold, creamy topping.

Interesting Facts

• Rhubarb was once called "the pie plant" because it was so commonly used in desserts.
• The combination of strawberries and rhubarb became widely popular in the U.S. in the 19th century, with strawberry-rhubarb pie appearing in early cookbooks.
• Crumble toppings vary worldwide, with British crumbles often including spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, while American versions emphasize nuts and buttery textures.
• Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble has inspired modern variations using gluten-free flours, alternative sweeteners, and vegan butter to cater to dietary preferences.
• Despite its simplicity, the dish is celebrated for its ability to highlight seasonal produce, making it a symbol of fresh, home-style cooking.

FAQ about Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble Recipe

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