Old-Fashioned Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

Update : April 30, 2026

Why Make This Recipe

Old-Fashioned Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp is a delightful dessert that celebrates the perfect balance of sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also brings comfort and nostalgia with every bite. Ideal for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners, this crisp offers a crunchy topping that complements the juicy fruit filling beautifully. It’s a great way to enjoy seasonal produce and create a dish that everyone will love.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (Use ripe strawberries for best flavor.)
2 cups rhubarb, chopped into 1-inch pieces (Ensure rhubarb is fresh to avoid bitterness.)
1 cup granulated sugar (Adjust based on tartness of rhubarb.)
2 tablespoons cornstarch (For thickening the filling.)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances flavor.)
1 teaspoon lemon juice (Adds acidity and brightness.)
1 cup rolled oats (Old-fashioned oats recommended for texture.)
1 cup all-purpose flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour.)
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (Adds moisture and flavor.)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (For added warmth in flavor.)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (Chilled butter can also be used for a crumblier topping.)

Directions:

Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and chopped rhubarb. Add the granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix well until the fruit is evenly coated. Pour this mixture into a greased baking dish.
Baking:
- In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle this topping over the fruit mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

Serve your crisp warm, possibly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. This adds a creamy element that perfectly complements the warm, fruity filling. Consider serving it in individual bowls for a more personal touch at gatherings.

How to Store Old-Fashioned Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

To store leftover crisp, let it cool completely and then cover it with plastic wrap or tin foil. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Just ensure it is well-covered, and it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Tips to Make Old-Fashioned Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
If your rhubarb is very tart, you might want to adjust the sugar to your taste.
For a crispier topping, consider using chilled butter instead of melted butter.
Add some chopped nuts to the topping for extra crunch and flavor.

Variation

Feel free to mix in other seasonal fruits such as blueberries or peaches to give your crumble a twist. You can also experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries and rhubarb?
- Yes, you can use frozen fruit. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mixing.
Is it possible to make this crisp gluten-free?
- Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and the crisp will still turn out delicious.
Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the filling and topping separately and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just mix and bake when you’re ready to serve!