Old-Fashioned Rhubarb Pie Recipe

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Old-Fashioned Rhubarb Pie Recipe

Rhubarb pie is a beloved classic that has been enjoyed for generations. Known for its perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, this pie is a staple of spring and early summer. Rhubarb, often called the “pie plant,” is a unique vegetable that is treated like a fruit in desserts. This old-fashioned rhubarb pie recipe is simple, delicious, and nostalgic, making it the perfect addition to your baking repertoire.

History of Rhubarb Pie

Rhubarb has been cultivated for thousands of years, originally used for medicinal purposes in China before making its way to Europe and North America. By the 18th century, rhubarb became a popular ingredient in pies, jams, and desserts. Early American settlers embraced rhubarb as a reliable, hardy plant that could be used in sweet treats even before summer fruits were available. Today, rhubarb pie remains a cherished tradition in many households, particularly in the Midwest and New England.

Benefits of Rhubarb

Rhubarb is not just delicious; it also has numerous health benefits, including:

✔️ Rich in Antioxidants – Helps fight free radicals and reduces inflammation.
✔️ High in Fiber – Supports digestive health.
✔️ Low in Calories – Makes for a guilt-free dessert option.
✔️ Good Source of Vitamin K – Essential for bone health and blood clotting.
✔️ Aids Digestion – Promotes gut health and regularity.

Ingredients

For the Pie Filling:

  • 4 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

For the Crust:

  • 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

For the Streusel Topping:

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roll out your pie dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Crimp the edges for a decorative touch and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Rhubarb Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb and sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the rhubarb to release some of its juices.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, sour cream, and flour until smooth.
  3. Pour this mixture over the rhubarb and stir to coat evenly.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

  1. Pour the rhubarb filling into the prepared pie crust. Spread it out evenly.

Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping

  1. In a small bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly.
  2. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the rhubarb filling.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

  1. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes at 400°F.
  2. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the streusel topping is golden brown.
  3. If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

  1. Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the filling set properly.
  2. Serve warm or chilled, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)

  • Calories: 320
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 35g

Pie Lovers and Traditions

Rhubarb pie has dedicated fans across the world, especially in areas where rhubarb thrives. Many Midwestern families have passed down rhubarb pie recipes for generations, often served at family reunions, picnics, and county fairs. In the UK, rhubarb pie is often paired with custard, while in America, it’s commonly enjoyed with ice cream. Some people love adding strawberries to balance the tartness, creating the classic Strawberry Rhubarb Pie.

Conclusion

Old-fashioned rhubarb pie is a timeless dessert that brings comfort and nostalgia to every bite. With its crisp crust, creamy tart filling, and crunchy streusel topping, this pie is a true masterpiece of flavors and textures. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or simply to enjoy a slice with your morning coffee, this rhubarb pie is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Try this recipe and start your own rhubarb pie tradition!

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