Delightful Rhubarb Bars Recipe: A Sweet and Tangy Treat

Rhubarb bars are a delicious dessert that perfectly balances the tartness of rhubarb with a sweet, buttery crust. These bars are not only easy to make but also make for a fantastic treat during spring and summer when rhubarb is in season. In this article, we’ll walk you through a simple yet delectable rhubarb bar recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Rhubarb Bars Recipe

1. Tart and Sweet: The combination of tart rhubarb and sweet filling creates a delightful flavor profile.
2. Easy to Prepare: With a straightforward recipe, these bars come together quickly, making them perfect for any occasion.
3. Versatile: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat!

Ingredients for Rhubarb Bars

To make a 9×13-inch pan of rhubarb bars, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 2 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped into small pieces
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Rhubarb Bars

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and mix until crumbly. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
3. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
4. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb, sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well to coat the rhubarb evenly. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and then fold them into the rhubarb mixture until just combined.
5. Combine and Bake: Pour the rhubarb filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are golden.
6. Cool and Slice: Allow the rhubarb bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles and dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Rhubarb Bars

• Use Fresh Rhubarb: For the best flavor, use fresh rhubarb in this recipe. If using frozen rhubarb, make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
• Add Flavor: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for an extra layer of warmth.
• Store Properly: Store leftover rhubarb bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I substitute other fruits for rhubarb? Yes! You can use fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. Adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the fruit.

2. What’s the best way to chop rhubarb? Wash the rhubarb stalks thoroughly, trim the ends, and slice them into small, uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking.

3. Can I make these bars ahead of time? Absolutely! Rhubarb bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Conclusion

These delightful rhubarb bars offer a perfect blend of tart and sweet flavors, making them a fantastic dessert for any occasion. With a simple recipe and easily accessible ingredients, you can enjoy the taste of fresh rhubarb in a delicious bar form. Bake a batch today, and savor the joy of this delightful treat!