Delicious Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars
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Introduction
Are you looking for a dessert that perfectly balances tangy and sweet flavors, with a touch of warmth and heartiness? This oatmeal rhubarb bars recipe is just what you need! Combining a crumbly, buttery oatmeal base with the unique tartness of rhubarb filling, these bars are a delectable treat for any occasion. Perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a delightful dessert, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends.
Enjoy the perfect blend of flavors in a quick no-fuss treat.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Here’s what you will need to make these delicious oatmeal rhubarb bars:
Oats – Use rolled oats for the best texture and flavor in your oatmeal base.
Sugar – Sweeten both the filling and the oatmeal crust with granulated sugar.
Butter – Ensure you have melted butter to create the crumbly topping.
Flour – All-purpose flour will be your go-to for this recipe.
Rhubarb – Fresh or frozen rhubarb will work for this recipe; chop it into small, manageable pieces.
Cornstarch – This helps thicken the rhubarb filling.
Vanilla – A hint of vanilla elevates the flavor profile in the dish.
Full-flavored ingredients make for a tempting treat.
Prep Time
Preparing these bars is quick and simple. Begin by preheating your oven to the required temperature and gathering all ingredients. Take approximately 15 minutes to assemble your mixture and have it ready for baking.
Efficiency meets flavor in this easy prep process.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is approximately 35 minutes, during which the oats bake to a crisp, golden perfection. Total time for this recipe sums up to around 50 minutes, including preparation time. Serve this recipe and yield around 12 tasty bars, perfect for sharing or indulging solo.
Bake your way to moments of pure happiness with these simple steps!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Make sure all your ingredients are measured and ready before beginning. This will streamline the process.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a square baking pan (8×8 inches recommended) with parchment paper and leave some overhang to make lifting the bars out easier after baking.
Step 3: Make the Oatmeal Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir together until evenly mixed. Add melted butter and stir well until the mixture resembles moist crumbs.
Step 4: Press the Oatmeal Mixture into the Pan
Take two-thirds of the oat mixture and firmly press it into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even base layer.
Step 5: Prepare the Rhubarb Filling
Wash and dice the rhubarb into small, bite-sized pieces. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and optional vanilla extract. Mix well until the rhubarb is evenly coated.
Step 6: Spread the Filling
Evenly distribute the rhubarb mixture over the pressed oatmeal base in the baking pan.
Step 7: Add the Crumb Topping
Take the remaining one-third of the oat mixture and sprinkle it evenly over the rhubarb layer. Lightly press it down with your hands for better adhesion.
Step 8: Bake the Bars
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling at the edges.
Step 9: Cool Completely
Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This might take about 1–2 hours.
Step 10: Cut and Serve
Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cooled bars out of the pan. Transfer them to a cutting board and cut into squares or bars before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Oats Type
Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Quick oats may work but will produce a different texture.
Note 2: Flour Substitutes
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour if needed.
Note 3: Rhubarb Freshness
Fresh rhubarb works best for this recipe. If using frozen rhubarb, thaw it completely and drain the excess liquid before mixing with the other ingredients.
Note 4: Sweetness Level
Adjust the amount of sugar in the filling depending on your personal taste and the tartness of your rhubarb.
Note 5: Storage
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving.
Note 6: Serving Suggestions
These bars pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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Cook Techniques
How to Prepare the Rhubarb Filling
To create a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness in your oatmeal rhubarb bars, ensure the rhubarb is diced evenly. Cook it with sugar until it becomes tender and juicy, creating a flavorful filling.
Creating the Oatmeal Crust and Topping
For the crust and topping, mix oats, flour, and sugar together. Add melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly, ensuring the texture creates a crunchy base and topping for the bars.
Layering the Crust and Filling
Press half of the oatmeal mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking pan to form the crust. Spread the rhubarb filling evenly, then sprinkle the remaining oatmeal mixture on top for the perfect layered effect.
Baking the Bars
Bake the assembled bars in a preheated oven until the top is golden-brown and the filling is bubbling slightly. The moderate heat ensures the crust bakes evenly while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Cooling Before Cutting
Once baked, let the bars cool completely before cutting them into squares. Cooling helps the bars set, ensuring clean, straight cuts and well-structured servings.
FAQ
Can I use frozen rhubarb instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb. Be sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess liquid before cooking it for the filling.
What type of oats should I use?
It is best to use old-fashioned rolled oats for texture. Avoid quick oats as they may result in a softer crust and topping.
Can I substitute butter with a non-dairy alternative?
Yes, you can use a non-dairy butter substitute to make this recipe suitable for a vegan diet without compromising the texture or flavor.
How should I store the oatmeal rhubarb bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I add other fruits to the filling?
Yes, you can mix rhubarb with strawberries, apples, or raspberries for added sweetness and flavor variety. Adjust the sugar level according to the fruit’s sweetness.
Conclusion
The oatmeal rhubarb bars recipe is a delightful combination of wholesome ingredients and tangy rhubarb flavors, making it an excellent treat for any occasion. Its simplicity and balance of textures ensure it’s a crowd-pleaser while also being versatile for different dietary preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast snack or as a sweet indulgence, these bars are sure to leave you smiling with every bite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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Incorporate chunks of cooked rhubarb into homemade granola for a tangy breakfast boost.
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Pair rhubarb with juicy peaches for a summery cobbler dessert that’s both tart and sweet.
