Today, we’re discussing a fool-proof recipe for Rhubarb Dream Bars that will leave you with a satisfied heart and a sense of accomplishment. Are you on a lookout for a delicious summer dessert recipe that hits the sweet spot while still being tangy enough to refresh your taste buds? Well, look no further because we have got you covered.
Not only are these bars easy to make, they are loved at every summer BBQ, picnic, and potluck we serve these at. I always bring home an empty pan. That is always a satisfying feeling as a home cook.
Even better is when our family and friends ask for the recipe! Then you know it is a great recipe to have in your recipe box.
We make this at least once a year in the early summer when the red stalks start to show up in my garden.
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Simple Recipe Ingredients
One great thing about this recipe is that it’s quite adaptable. You can switch out rhubarb with your favorite fruit to change up the flavor profile. Blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, peaches, and raspberries would all be perfect in this recipe. You can also add sliced almonds or chopped pecans for added crunch.
Here are the simple ingredients for this delicious treat.
Sugar: Granulated sugar provides sweetness to the crust and Fruit filling. You can substitute it with an equal amount of alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar, powdered sugar, or brown sugar for a slightly different flavor profile.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the standard flour used in baking. If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor to the crust and streusel topping. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use plant-based butter or margarine as a substitute.
Rhubarb: Rhubarb is the star ingredient in these bars, providing a tangy and tart flavor. If fresh is not available, you can use frozen. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before using.
Egg: This helps bind everything together for a tasty filling.
Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the bars. You can substitute it with other flavor extracts like almond or maple if desired.
When making substitutions, keep in mind that the taste and texture of the final result may vary slightly from the original recipe. It’s always a good idea to experiment and find what works best for your taste preferences and dietary needs.
It doesn’t get easier or tastier than this straightforward Rhubarb Dream Bars recipe. Baking these sweet, tangy, and creamy bars couldn’t be easier, with only a few ingredients and simple instructions. Whether it’s a lazy afternoon at home or a summer backyard gathering, these bars are always a crowd-pleaser.
How to Make Rhubarb Dream Bars
Soften the butter: Ensure that the butter is softened at room temperature or even melted before incorporating it into the crust mixture. It makes it easier to mix and form the crust.
Spread the crust mixture evenly: When pressing the crust mixture into the baking dish, make sure it’s spread evenly to create a uniform base for the bars. Use the back of a spoon, the bottom of a measuring cup, or your hands to press it down firmly.
Dice the rhubarb uniformly: When dicing the fresh rhubarb, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the bars.
Bake until golden brown: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake. They should turn a light golden brown color, indicating they are fully cooked and ready to be removed from the oven. The baking time may vary slightly, so use the suggested cook time as a guide and adjust accordingly.
Recipe Tips for Success
Here are some recipe success tips to ensure your Easy Rhubarb Dream Bars turn out perfect every time:
Properly measure your ingredients: Use measuring cups and spoons to measure the flour, sugar, butter, tart rhubarb, and other ingredients. Don’t guess how much you are adding as this can change the outcome.
Allow the bars to cool completely: Let the bars cool completely in the baking dish before cutting them into squares. This will help them set and hold their shape better, ensuring neat and tidy bars.
Storing Leftover Dessert Bars
If you have any leftover bars, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them to extend their shelf life. Before serving any refrigerated bars, allow them to come to room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating delicious and impressive Rhubarb Bars that everyone will love.
Best Rhubarb Recipes
There are so many ways this vegetable can be made. Yes, it is a vegetable, but we use it like a fruit. Here are our favorite rhubarb recipes.
Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
Rhubarb Cake with Buttery Cream Sauce
Crustless Rhubarb Custard Pie a very popular recipe
Easy Rhubarb Dream Bars Recipe
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Kitchen Essentials
Ingredients
- 1 ½ Cups All Purpose Flour
- ¾ Cups Butter softened or melted
- 8 Tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- 3 Cups Rhubarb Finely chopped
- 2 Large Eggs beaten
- ¼ Cup All Purpose Flour
- 1 Cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 Tablespoon Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a small bowl, mix together flour, sugar, and butter until fully incorporated. A food processor works too, but I personally prefer mixing by hand. Once mixed, press the mixture into a 9 X 9-inch baking pan – but don’t worry, an 8 X 10-inch pan will work just fine too. Bake for 10 minutes until it’s lightly browned and crispy.
- While the crust is baking, mix rhubarb, flour, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Once the crust is done, spoon the fruit mixture onto it. Bake for another 30 minutes until the fruit is lightly browned and set.
- The final step is the sweetest – serve warm or cold with whipping cream or vanilla ice cream. Yum!
Your Own Private Notes
Notes
Pro Tips
Properly measure your ingredients: Use measuring cups and spoons to measure the flour, sugar, butter, tart rhubarb, and other ingredients. Don’t guess how much you are adding as this can change the outcome. Allow the bars to cool completely: Let the bars cool completely in the baking dish before cutting them into squares. This will help them set and hold their shape better, ensuring neat and tidy bars. Instead of cutting bars straight in the pan, line the baking pan with parchment paper before adding the crust. This way, you can easily remove the entire dessert at once and cut it into perfect squares. How cool is that? Give it a try!Nutrition
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You can find Victoria crocheting, quilting, and creating recipes. She has cooked in restaurants for over 20 years, including many larger parties. She learned to crochet when she was just 11 years old and has been crocheting ever since; over 50 years now. Over 40 years ago, she loved her first class in sewing and continues to hone her skills in quilting. Many have enjoyed the handmade gifts over the years. In her professional career, she has worked in management in a wide variety of businesses including higher education as a dean of a division. All the while attending college part-time to achieve her doctorate in higher education with an emphasis in e-learning.