Strawberry Rhubarb Cobbler: The Perfect Sweet-Tart Dessert

Strawberry rhubarb cobbler combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the tang of fresh rhubarb, all baked under a golden biscuit topping. At Recipes of Kitchen, The Gluten-Free Sweet Kitchen, I’m passionate about creating desserts that capture seasonal flavors while remaining accessible for gluten-free baking.

This cobbler is a simple, satisfying treat that works for any gathering.

Introduction to Strawberry Rhubarb Cobbler

A timeless favorite, strawberry rhubarb cobbler combines sweet berries and tangy rhubarb for the perfect spring and summer dessert.. The strawberries add sweetness while the rhubarb provides a refreshing tang, creating a balanced filling. The topping is soft yet slightly crisp, making each bite satisfying. This dessert is perfect for casual family meals or as a highlight at summer gatherings.

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What is Strawberry Rhubarb Cobbler?

Strawberry rhubarb cobbler is a baked dessert made with sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb, topped with a biscuit-like dough that bakes into a golden, tender crust. The filling is thickened so it becomes bubbly and jammy in the oven, while the topping soaks up some of the fruit juices yet stays soft and slightly crisp on the outside.

This dessert is often enjoyed in late spring and early summer, when strawberries and rhubarb are both at their peak. The contrast of flavors makes strawberry rhubarb cobbler unique, offering a perfect balance between sweetness and tang. Whether served warm from the oven or chilled from the fridge, this dessert’s versatility makes it perfect for any gathering.

Strawberry Cobbler vs. Strawberry Crisp

Feature	Strawberry Cobbler	Strawberry Crisp
Topping Texture	Soft, cake-like or biscuit-style topping	Crumbly, golden-brown oat topping
Main Ingredients	Flour, butter, sugar, sometimes milk	Oats, sugar, butter, often cinnamon
Best For	When you want a soft, doughy, comforting topping	When you prefer a crunchy, toasty finish

Quick Tip:

• Choose cobbler if you love a tender, biscuit-like topping.
• Choose crisp if you’re after a sweet, crunchy oat layer.

Choosing and Prepping Rhubarb

Peeling Rhubarb

• Young, tender rhubarb doesn’t need peeling.
• For older, thicker stalks, peel away the tough outer fibers for a smoother bite.

Cooking Before Baking

• Rhubarb doesn’t need to be pre-cooked before going into a cobbler; it will naturally soften in the oven.
• For an extra smooth texture, some bakers choose to pre-cook it briefly before adding it to the filling.

Selecting Rhubarb

• For the best flavor and eye-catching presentation, choose rhubarb stalks that are firm and richly colored.
• Avoid limp or blemished pieces.
• Both fresh and frozen rhubarb work well, but remember that frozen rhubarb can release more liquid, so you may need to adjust thickening agents.

Ingredients for the Perfect Cobbler

For the Filling

• Fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• Fresh or frozen rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Sugar to balance the tartness
• Lemon juice to brighten flavor
• Thickener such as cornstarch, tapioca starch, or arrowroot powder to help the filling set

For the Topping

• All-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend
• Baking powder for lift
• Sugar for light sweetness
• Cold butter for flakiness
• Milk or cream to bring the dough together

Best Thickener for Rhubarb
Cornstarch is the most common choice for strawberry rhubarb cobbler because it thickens well and produces a glossy finish. Tapioca starch works well for a slightly chewy texture, while arrowroot gives a clear, smooth consistency.

Step-by-Step Strawberry Rhubarb Cobbler Recipe

Ingredients

Filling

• 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 3 cups rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch (or tapioca starch)

Topping

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour or substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe celiac-friendly.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ⅓ cup sugar
• ½ cup cold butter, cubed
• ¾ cup milk or cream

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

2. Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Strawberries
• Rhubarb
• Sugar
• Lemon juice
• Cornstarch

Toss until the fruit is evenly coated, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

3. Prepare the Topping

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gently stir in the milk just until combined. You can avoid overmixing for a light, tender topping.

4. Assemble the Cobbler

Drop spoonfuls of the topping evenly over the fruit filling. It’s fine if a few gaps remain, the topping will spread as it bakes.

5. Bake

Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the filling is bubbling at the edges.

6. Cool & Serve

Allow the cobbler to cool for at least 15 minutes so the filling can set.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Style	Description	Flavor & Texture Effect
Classic Style	Serve warm cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream	Cold ice cream melts into the hot filling, creating a creamy, sweet sauce
Whipped Cream	Lightly sweetened whipped cream on top	Soft, airy finish that complements the tart-sweet fruit
Yogurt or Crème Fraîche	Greek yogurt or crème fraîche served alongside	Tangy contrast balances sweetness and adds creaminess
Garnishes	Fresh mint, powdered sugar, or sliced strawberries	Adds freshness, color, and visual appeal
Make-Ahead	Bake earlier, reheat before serving, add toppings last	Convenient, keeps flavors fresh and textures intact

Storing and Reheating Cobbler

Storing

• Cover leftover strawberry rhubarb cobbler and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• “Reheat the cobbler in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes to restore the topping’s crisp texture and prevent sogginess.
• For single servings, use the microwave in short 20-second bursts, though the topping may soften more.

Freezing Tip

• Freeze the cobbler before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish, wrapping it well, and baking straight from frozen when ready. Add extra baking time as needed.

FAQs Strawberry Rhubarb Cobbler

Conclusion

Strawberry rhubarb cobbler is a celebration of sweet and tart flavors in one comforting dessert. The juicy combination of ripe strawberries and tangy rhubarb, topped with a golden biscuit crust, makes it perfect for spring and summer gatherings. With a few simple adjustments, it can be made completely gluten-free without losing its classic texture and flavor. Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or cold the next day, this cobbler is a timeless treat worth making again and again.