Strawberry Rhubarb Heart Crisp

Name: Strawberry Rhubarb Heart Crisp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 cups rhubarb, chopped; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup butter, melted; 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Homemade Dessert Recipes

I absolutely adore the vibrant combination of strawberries and rhubarb in this heart crisp. The tartness of rhubarb melds beautifully with the sweetness of strawberries, creating a deliciously balanced dessert. When I first made this dish, I was amazed by how easy it was to prepare yet how impressive the result looked and tasted. Baking it until bubbly creates a crispy topping that complements the juicy fruit underneath. It's perfect for a cozy evening or a delightful gathering with friends and family.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T15:49:28.316Z

When I first decided to create this Strawberry Rhubarb Heart Crisp, I was looking for a dessert that would highlight seasonal fruits. The unique tartness of rhubarb combined with strawberries creates a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. I experimented with various ratios and finally found the sweet spot that balanced both fruits perfectly.

While prepping, I discovered that tossing the fruit with a bit of cornstarch prevents the filling from becoming too runny. This small step made a huge difference in the final texture, resulting in a crisp that not only looks inviting but also holds its shape beautifully when served.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect blend of tart rhubarb and sweet strawberries
Crispy topping that contrasts wonderfully with the warm fruit
A simple yet impressive dessert that is sure to wow guests

      

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Selecting the right strawberries and rhubarb is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your Strawberry Rhubarb Heart Crisp. Look for strawberries that are bright red and fragrant, as these will provide natural sweetness and juiciness to the filling. For rhubarb, choose stalks that are firm and vibrant. Avoid any that appear dull or limp, as they may not have the right tartness or texture needed for this dessert.

The balance of sweetness and tartness is key in this recipe. If you prefer your crisp slightly sweeter, you can adjust the sugar content up to one cup. Additionally, if you're unable to find fresh rhubarb, frozen rhubarb can be used; just remember to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mixing it with the strawberries to avoid a soggy filling.

Technique Tips for the Perfect Crisp

When combining the crisp topping, make sure the butter is fully melted but not hot, as this can lead to an overly greasy texture. Mix the rolled oats, flour, and sugars before adding butter to ensure an even distribution of the dry ingredients. The final mixture should be crumbly and somewhat resembling wet sand, which will create a delightful crunchy texture once baked.

For the perfect bake, keep an eye on the crisp towards the end of the baking time. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil for the last few minutes. This will prevent the topping from burning while still allowing the fruit to bubble enticingly beneath.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make the delicious Strawberry Rhubarb Heart Crisp.

Filling:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 cups rhubarb, chopped
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Crisp Topping:

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delightful Strawberry Rhubarb Heart Crisp.

Prepare the Fruit Filling

In a large bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir gently until the fruit is well coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

Make the Crisp Topping

In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until crumbly. Evenly spread the topping over the fruit filling.

Bake the Crisp

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider mixing in some chopped nuts into the crisp topping before baking.

Storage and Reheating

After baking, allow your Strawberry Rhubarb Heart Crisp to cool completely before storing it. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer individual portions into airtight containers. It refrigerates well for up to four days, making it a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings.

To reheat, simply place individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, just until warmed through. The topping may lose some of its initial crispiness but will still be deliciously comforting alongside the warm, bubbling fruit.

Delicious Variations

This heart crisp is versatile; try adding a twist by incorporating other fruits like apples or blueberries, which can complement the existing flavors. For a touch of warmth and spice, you might include a pinch of nutmeg or ginger in the topping for added complexity.

To make the dish gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it's one that can be used 1:1. You can also replace the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option—just melt it before mixing it into the dry ingredients to maintain the right texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen fruit?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries and rhubarb. Just ensure to thaw them and drain excess moisture before mixing with sugar.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

→ What can I serve with the crisp?

This dessert pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a dollop of yogurt.