What’s the difference between strawberry rhubarb cobbler and crisp?

Cobbler has a biscuit or cake-like topping, while crisp uses oats and butter for a crunchy topping.

Can I use frozen fruit for strawberry rhubarb cobbler?

Yes, frozen strawberries or rhubarb work well, just add extra cornstarch to thicken the juices.

Do I need to peel rhubarb?

No, simply trim the ends. The skin softens when baked and adds color.

How can I prevent the filling from being watery?

Add cornstarch or flour to thicken the fruit mixture, especially with juicy strawberries.

Strawberry Rhubarb Cobbler – Easy, Classic Dessert Recipe 2026

Name: Strawberry Rhubarb Cobbler
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 3 cups rhubarb, chopped into ½-inch pieces; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; ½ cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)

Description

A classic strawberry rhubarb cobbler featuring sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb baked together under a soft, golden biscuit topping. This old fashioned dessert is warm, juicy, and perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy, making it a comforting spring and summer treat. Serve it fresh from the oven with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the best flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for one 9-inch baking dish):

For the Fruit Filling:

4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
3 cups rhubarb, chopped into ½-inch pieces
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

For the Cobbler Topping:

1 cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
½ cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Topping:

1 tablespoon coarse sugar for sprinkling
Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Filling

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish.

In a large bowl, combine strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt. Toss until the fruit is evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 2: Make the Cobbler Topping

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in milk and vanilla until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Assemble the Cobbler

Drop spoonfuls of the dough evenly over the fruit filling. It does not need to completely cover the fruit.

Sprinkle coarse sugar over the topping if desired.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 35–40 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbling around the edges.

Let the cobbler cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Balance the Flavor: Rhubarb is naturally tart, so adjust the sugar slightly if your strawberries are not very sweet.
Frozen Fruit Option: Frozen strawberries or rhubarb can be used, but add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch to thicken the filling.
Crisp vs Cobbler: If you prefer a crunchier topping, you can add oats and brown sugar to the topping mixture.
Storage: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Category: Dessert / Fruit Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American