fHave you ever tasted a dessert that feels like a warm summer memory? This Strawberry Rhubarb Galette is just that—a rustic fruit tart with a flaky, buttery crust and a filling that’s both sweet and tangy. It’s the kind of treat you pull together with simple pantry staples and fresh produce, yet it delivers the kind of flavor that makes people think you’ve spent hours baking.
I love how this galette celebrates the best of rhubarb season, combining the tart edge of rhubarb with the juicy sweetness of strawberries in the most irresistible way. Whether you’re serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, it’s a homemade galette that never fails to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something incredibly comforting about a Strawberry Rhubarb Galette—it’s rustic, unfussy, and bursting with fresh, seasonal flavor. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just dipping your toes into homemade desserts, this galette is wonderfully approachable and delivers impressive results with minimal effort.
Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your summer dessert lineup:
- No pie pan required. This free-form tart is baked right on a sheet pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Naturally sweet and tangy. The combination of juicy strawberries and tart rhubarb strikes the perfect balance—no one flavor overpowers the other.
- Flaky, golden crust. Thanks to a simple, buttery dough, every bite melts in your mouth and holds up beautifully to the fruit filling.
- Make-ahead friendly. Prep the dough in advance or even freeze a finished galette for a rainy-day treat.
- Versatile for every occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard brunch, bringing dessert to a summer cookout, or enjoying a quiet evening on the patio, this galette feels just right.
Ingredients for Strawberry Rhubarb Galette
One of the best things about this Strawberry Rhubarb Galette is that it uses simple, familiar ingredients to create something truly special. Before you begin, make sure you’ve got everything prepped and ready—it makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 2 cups rhubarb, sliced into ½-inch pieces
- ½ cup granulated sugar – balances the tartness of the rhubarb
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – helps thicken the filling as it bakes
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – brightens the flavor and enhances the fruit
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – adds depth and warmth to the fruit
For the Galette Dough:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – for a hint of sweetness in the crust
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed – the key to a flaky crust
- ¼ cup ice water, plus more as needed
Assembly:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) – gives the crust that golden, glossy finish
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional) – adds a lovely crunch on top
Ingredient Tips:
- Use very cold butter when making the dough. This helps create steam pockets that give your galette its signature flaky texture.
- If your strawberries are very sweet, feel free to reduce the sugar slightly.
- Frozen fruit can be used in a pinch, just thaw and drain well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- Want to make this ahead? You can store the dough in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or keep it in the freezer for as long as 1 month.
How To Make Strawberry Rhubarb Galette
Making a Strawberry Rhubarb Galette is simpler than you might think—no fancy pans, no tricky techniques, just good old-fashioned baking with a rustic twist. Think of it like a laid-back pie that still delivers a beautiful, flaky crust and a juicy, fruit-filled center. Here’s how to bring it all together:
1. Make the Galette Dough
Start here if you’re making the crust from scratch (and trust me, it’s worth it).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Drizzle in the ice water a tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just comes together—don’t overwork it.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour. (This rest period helps develop flavor and keeps the crust tender.)
Pro Tip: If your kitchen is warm, pop the bowl and ingredients in the fridge for 10 minutes before starting.
2. Prepare the Filling
While the dough chills, make the fruit filling.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and rhubarb with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Toss gently to coat, then let it sit for about 10–15 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and draws out excess juice.
3. Roll Out the Dough
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a rough 12-inch circle (no need for perfection—rustic is the goal).
- Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Assemble the Galette
- Spoon the fruit filling into the center of the dough, leaving about a 2-inch border.
- Fold the edges over the filling, pleating the dough as you go. It doesn’t have to look perfect—those uneven folds are part of the charm.
- Brush the crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar if using.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the galette for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Let it cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Substitutions & Variations
One of the reasons I love a Strawberry Rhubarb Galette is how flexible it is. Whether you’re working with what you have in the fridge or adapting for dietary needs, this recipe invites creativity without compromising flavor. Here’s how you can make it your own:
➤ Fruit Swaps
If rhubarb isn’t in season or you want to mix things up:
- Peaches or nectarines add a juicy, sweet bite that pairs well with strawberries.
- Blueberries or raspberries can balance out the tartness of rhubarb or stand alone beautifully.
- Apples or pears sliced thinly work well for a fall-inspired version.
Tip: Stick to fruits with a similar water content to avoid a soggy crust. Add a touch more cornstarch if using extra-juicy fruit.
➤ Crust Alternatives
Don’t want to make dough from scratch? No problem.
- Store-bought pie crust works great in a pinch and saves time.
- For a heartier option, try a whole wheat flour crust—it adds a nutty depth.
- Gluten-free flour blends can be used to make the galette accessible to everyone.
➤ Flavor Boosters
Add a little twist with these optional upgrades:
- A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or cardamom in the fruit filling for warm, aromatic notes.
- A drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the baked galette for extra shine and sweetness.
- Mix in a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to brighten up the filling.
➤ Make It Vegan
This galette is easy to adapt for a plant-based diet:
- Swap the butter with vegan butter or solid coconut oil.
- Use a splash of plant-based milk in place of the egg wash (it still gives a nice golden crust).
- Double-check your sugar if you’re strict about refined sugar sources.
Storage & Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers (which honestly, isn’t all that common with this Strawberry Rhubarb Galette), you’ll want to store and reheat them properly to keep that flaky crust and juicy filling as fresh as possible.
How to Store
- Room Temperature: Let the galette cool completely, then loosely cover with foil or parchment and keep on the counter for up to 1 day.
- Refrigerator: For longer storage, place in an airtight container or wrap well and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Want to freeze it? Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month.
Tip: If freezing, skip toppings like whipped cream until ready to serve for best texture.
How to Reheat
To maintain the crust’s crispness and bring back that fresh-baked feel:
- Oven (Best Method): Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the galette on a baking sheet and warm for about 10–12 minutes, or until heated through.
- Toaster Oven: Perfect for reheating a single slice—just a few minutes at medium heat.
- Microwave (Quick Fix): Use only if you’re in a hurry. Heat a slice for 15–20 seconds, but note that the crust may soften.
What to Serve with Strawberry Rhubarb Galette
The beauty of a Strawberry Rhubarb Galette is that it pairs effortlessly with a wide range of accompaniments, elevating every bite into a memorable dessert experience. Here are some thoughtful serving ideas to bring out the best in your galette:
- Classic Pairings:
- A generous scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creamy contrast to the warm, flaky crust.
- A dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the sweet and tangy flavors perfectly.
- Beverage Match-Ups:
- Enjoy a cup of rich, freshly brewed coffee or a light tea for a balanced, comforting treat.
- A glass of chilled rosé wine or a sparkling prosecco can make your galette feel extra celebratory.
- Additional Toppings:
- Drizzle with a bit of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness and shine.
- A sprinkle of cinnamon or a few scattered fresh mint leaves can provide a pleasant aromatic lift.
- Seasonal Flair:
- In the summer, try pairing it with seasonal fruit salads or a light citrus sorbet to keep the dessert refreshing.
- For a twist, warm the galette slightly and serve it with a drizzle of lemon curd for an extra zesty kick
More Summer Dessert Recipes You’ll Love
Once you’ve had a slice of this Strawberry Rhubarb Galette, it’s hard not to crave more fresh and fruity desserts that capture the spirit of summer. Whether you’re looking for something quick to whip up for a picnic or a crowd-pleasing treat for your next barbecue, these recipes are just as simple, seasonal, and satisfying.
Berry-Inspired Favorites
- Mixed Berry Crisp – Bursting with blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries, this easy crisp is topped with a golden oat crumble that’s irresistible with a scoop of ice cream.
- Strawberry Shortcake – Layers of flaky biscuits, sweet strawberries, and freshly whipped cream make this classic dessert a perennial favorite.
Stone Fruit Treats
- Peach Cobbler – Juicy peaches tucked under a buttery biscuit topping. It’s comforting, cozy, and always a hit at summer potlucks.
- Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream – Caramelized on the grill and served warm, this is a quick yet elegant way to enjoy ripe peaches.
Citrus & Creamy Delights
- Lemon Bars – Tangy, sweet, and set atop a shortbread crust—these are perfect for citrus lovers.
- No-Bake Cheesecake Cups – A cool, creamy dessert layered with fresh fruit and graham cracker crumbs—great for when it’s too hot to turn on the oven.
FAQs About Strawberry Rhubarb Galette
Have questions before you dive in? You’re not alone! Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about making a Strawberry Rhubarb Galette, so you can bake with confidence and ease.
What are the Strawberry Rhubarb Galette made of?
A traditional Strawberry Rhubarb Galette is made with a buttery, flaky crust and a filling of fresh strawberries, sliced rhubarb, sugar, lemon juice, and a bit of cornstarch to thicken the juices as it bakes. The ingredients are simple, but they come together to create a perfectly balanced, sweet-and-tart dessert.
Is Strawberry Rhubarb Galette good?
Absolutely! This galette is a rustic summer dessert that hits all the right notes—flaky crust, juicy fruit, and just enough sweetness to let the natural flavors shine. It’s a lighter, more casual alternative to pie, and it’s especially great for those who love a little tartness in their sweets. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream, and you’ll understand why it’s a seasonal favorite.
What are the three types of Strawberry Rhubarb Galette?
While the core idea stays the same, there are a few fun variations you can try:
- Classic Galette – The original version with strawberries, rhubarb, and a homemade crust.
- Mini Galettes – Personal-sized versions that are perfect for individual servings or parties.
- Gluten-Free or Vegan Galette – Made with alternative flours or dairy-free butter to suit different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Each version offers its own charm, and all three are equally delicious.
What do you need for Strawberry Rhubarb Galette?
You’ll need a few basic pantry staples and some fresh produce:
- Flour, butter, sugar, and salt for the crust
- Strawberries and rhubarb for the filling
- Lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cornstarch to balance and thicken
- Egg wash and optional coarse sugar for that golden finish