Rhubarb Bars
Introduction
Rhubarb bars are a fantastic dessert option that strikes the perfect balance between tart and sweet. These bars not only highlight the vibrant flavor of rhubarb but also provide a delightful buttery crust to complement it. Whether you’re looking for a treat to serve at family gatherings, special occasions, or simply a sweet addition to your day, this recipe from Gift of Hospitality showcases how easy it is to make a crowd-pleasing dessert.
Recipe and More
This rhubarb bars recipe is a sure way to impress your guests and liven up your dessert table. It’s an easy-to-make dessert using simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, with rhubarb as the shining star. The pairing of the crust with the creamy rhubarb center is guaranteed to be a hit for anyone who loves unique and flavorful treats.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
The recipe uses the following ingredients:
– Fresh rhubarb
– Granulated sugar
– Unsalted butter
– All-purpose flour
– Eggs
– Vanilla extract
– Baking powder
– Salt
With these essential items, you’ll be able to create a dessert that’s as deliciously tart as it is sweet.
Prep Time
Preparing rhubarb bars doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. The prep time is minimal, making it ideal for busy days when you’d still like to bake something special. Start by washing and slicing the rhubarb before assembling the ingredients for the crust and filling.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time ensures that all the flavors meld together perfectly while the crust achieves a crisp and golden base. Altogether, the total time is short and manageable, fitting seamlessly into your schedule without requiring extended periods of effort. This recipe produces a yield perfect for sharing with family or friends or keeping on hand as an indulgent treat for yourself.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 13×9 inch baking dish and grease it lightly or line it with parchment paper to prevent the bars from sticking.
Prepare the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Add 1 cup of softened unsalted butter to the mixture and blend it using a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it reaches all corners. Bake the crust for 15 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly.
Mix the Filling
In another large bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix until smooth. Add 4 cups of diced rhubarb to the mixture and stir until the rhubarb is evenly coated.
Add the Filling to the Crust
Pour the rhubarb filling evenly over the baked crust. Smooth out the top with a spatula to ensure it spreads out evenly over the crust.
Bake the Rhubarb Bars
Place the baking dish back into the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes, or until the filling is set and does not jiggle significantly when you gently shake the pan. Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan.
Cut and Serve
Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles of your desired size. Serve the bars at room temperature. Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
Substituting Frozen Rhubarb
If using frozen rhubarb instead of fresh, thaw it completely and drain off any excess liquid to avoid a soggy filling.
Make-Ahead Tips
The bars can be baked a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the rhubarb bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Adding a Topping
For extra flavor, you can sprinkle powdered sugar over the bars before serving or serve them with a dollop of whipped cream.
Adjusting Sweetness
If your rhubarb is particularly tart, consider increasing the sugar slightly in the filling mixture to balance the taste.
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Cook Techniques
Preparing the rhubarb
Be sure to dice the rhubarb into small, even pieces. This will help it cook evenly in the filling and ensure a consistent texture throughout the bars.
Layering the crust and filling
After making the crust mixture, press it firmly into the pan to form an even layer. Once baked, pour the rhubarb filling over the crust carefully to avoid disrupting the base.
Baking tips
Keep an eye on the bars during the baking process. The filling should set properly without overcooking or becoming too brown around the edges.
FAQ
Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?
Yes, frozen rhubarb can be used. Just make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the filling mixture.
Can I substitute rhubarb for another fruit?
While rhubarb is unique in flavor, you can substitute it with fruits like strawberries, but it may alter the overall taste and sweetness of the recipe.
How do I store these rhubarb bars?
Once the rhubarb bars have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for several days.
Can these bars be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze rhubarb bars. Wrap them tightly and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
What type of pan should I use?
An 8×8 inch square baking pan is ideal for this recipe. Be sure to grease the pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Conclusion
These rhubarb bars are a delightful mix of sweet and tart flavors, offering a perfect dessert for any occasion. Their simplicity and balanced taste make them a favorite for rhubarb lovers and a great way to showcase this unique ingredient. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or indulging at home, these bars are sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp
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