If you're a fan of the popular food blog Smitten Kitchen, then you've probably heard of their mouth-watering recipe for strawberry rhubarb pie bars. These delicious treats are the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, making them a crowd favorite for any occasion. So why wait? Let's dive into the recipe and learn how to make these delectable bars for ourselves.Smitten Kitchen's Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
Smitten Kitchen's Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
Before we get started, let's gather all of the necessary ingredients for this recipe. You'll need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, butter, egg, strawberries, and rhubarb. Don't forget to preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars Recipe
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars Recipe
Now that we have all of our ingredients, let's get to baking! Start by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a large mixing bowl. Cut in 1 cup of cold butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Next, beat 1 large egg and add it to the flour mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then press it into the greased baking pan, making sure it's evenly distributed.Easy Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
Easy Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
Now it's time to prepare the filling. Cut 2 cups of strawberries and 2 cups of rhubarb into small pieces and place them in a saucepan. Add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and cook over medium heat until the fruit has released its juices and becomes soft. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once the fruit has cooked down, pour it over the crust in the baking pan. It's okay if there are some chunks of fruit, as they will add texture to the bars.Best Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
Best Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
Now we're getting to the best part - the crumb topping! In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Cut in 1/2 cup of cold butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the fruit filling, making sure to cover it completely. Place the baking pan in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.Homemade Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
Homemade Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
Once the bars are done baking, let them cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before cutting them into squares. Dust with powdered sugar for a pretty finishing touch, and enjoy!Delicious Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
Delicious Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
These bars are perfect for any occasion - from summer picnics to holiday gatherings. They're also great for making ahead of time, as they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving.Simple Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
Simple Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
If you're in a time crunch, you can also make these bars with pre-made pie crust and canned fruit filling. However, we highly recommend going the homemade route for the best flavor and texture.Quick Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
Quick Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
This recipe is a classic for a reason - it's simple, delicious, and a crowd-pleaser every time. The combination of sweet strawberries and tangy rhubarb is a match made in dessert heaven.Classic Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
Classic Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
Looking to make a healthier version of these bars? You can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar. You can also use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. Now that you have the recipe for Smitten Kitchen's famous strawberry rhubarb pie bars, it's time to get baking! Trust us, these bars will be a hit with everyone who tries them. Happy baking! Healthy Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
Healthy Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
Creating a Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert: Smitten Kitchen Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Bars
The Perfect Combination of Sweet and Tangy
When it comes to dessert, there are few flavor combinations that are as beloved as strawberry and rhubarb. The sweet and juicy strawberries perfectly balance out the tangy and slightly tart rhubarb, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that is hard to resist. This classic pairing has been used in pies, crumbles, and now, in these delicious strawberry rhubarb pie bars from the popular food blog, Smitten Kitchen.
A Modern Twist on a Classic Recipe
While traditional strawberry rhubarb pie is a classic dessert, it can also be quite time-consuming to make. However, with Smitten Kitchen's recipe for strawberry rhubarb pie bars, you can enjoy all the deliciousness of the classic dessert in a much easier and more convenient form. The recipe calls for a shortbread-like crust, a layer of sweet strawberry and rhubarb filling, and a crumbly streusel topping. These bars can easily be made ahead of time and are perfect for sharing at a picnic, potluck, or any summer gathering.
Using Fresh and Seasonal Ingredients
One of the keys to making the perfect strawberry rhubarb pie bars is using fresh, ripe, and seasonal ingredients. The strawberries and rhubarb should be at their peak ripeness, as this will ensure that the filling is bursting with flavor. You can also add a touch of lemon zest to the filling for an extra pop of citrusy freshness. And for the crust and topping, using high-quality butter and flour will make all the difference in creating a buttery and crumbly texture.
A Crowd-Pleaser for All Occasions
Whether you are a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, Smitten Kitchen's strawberry rhubarb pie bars are a must-try. These bars are a crowd-pleaser, sure to impress your family and friends at any occasion. The beautiful layers of red and pink from the strawberries and rhubarb make for a stunning presentation, and the flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds. So why not give this modern twist on a classic dessert a try and add a little sweetness to your next gathering?
