When the vibrant green stalks of rhubarb begin to appear at the market, my heart skips a beat. There’s something undeniably nostalgic about bringing this tangy delight into my kitchen. A recent Sunday afternoon found me staring at my trusty recipe book, yearning for a sweet escape from the mundane hustle of life. That’s when I remembered my favorite Rhubarb Dream Bars—a dessert that perfectly balances the tartness of fresh rhubarb with a buttery crust that melts in your mouth.
These bars are the epitome of home-baked goodness and offer a delightful twist to your dessert repertoire. With just a handful of ingredients, they’re surprisingly simple to whip up, yet they always impress guests. Picture this: a warm, golden crust cradling a luscious, pink filling that’s both sweet and slightly tangy. Each bite is a reminder of spring, making them the perfect treat for brunch, potlucks, or simply indulging after a long day. So, let’s dive into this captivating recipe and bring a slice of rhubarb heaven to your table!
Why love Rhubarb Dream Bars?
Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of tart rhubarb and sweet filling creates a deliciously unique dessert experience.
Comforting Texture: With a buttery, crumbly crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy rhubarb layer, every bite is a delight.
Quick Prep Time: In just over an hour, you can have these mouthwatering bars cooling on your counter, making them a great option for unexpected guests.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s brunch or a weeknight dessert, these bars will have your friends asking for the recipe!
Endless Versatility: Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy them cold for a refreshing snack.
Bring the joy of homemade goodness into your kitchen with this recipe, and don’t forget to check out our guide on using rhubarb in desserts for more inspiration!
Rhubarb Dream Bars Ingredients
For the Crust
• All-purpose flour – A staple ingredient that forms the base of your crust.
• Sugar – Provides sweetness to balance the tartness of the rhubarb.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps create a flaky texture in the crust.
For the Filling
• Large eggs – Essential for binding all the ingredients together in the filling.
• Sugar – Additional sweetness to enhance the rhubarb flavor in your Rhubarb Dream Bars.
• Flour – Helps to thicken the filling for a perfect consistency.
• Salt – A vital ingredient that elevates the overall flavor.
• Diced rhubarb – The star of the show! Adds that tangy, refreshing taste you crave.
How to Make Rhubarb Dream Bars
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Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8″ pan with parchment paper, ensuring it comes up the sides for easy removal later.
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Whirl the crust ingredients in a food processor until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes, until the crust looks pale but not browned.
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Mix the filling by whisking together the eggs, sugar, flour, and salt in a bowl for about 1 minute—no more! Gently fold in the diced rhubarb, creating a colorful blend.
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Pour the filling onto the hot crust, spreading it evenly. Continue to bake for 40-45 minutes, until the filling is set and slightly puffed.
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Cool the bars completely before lifting them out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve to eager taste testers!
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Rhubarb Dream Bars?
Pair your delightful rhubarb bars with these tasty accompaniments for a complete dessert experience that’ll leave everyone eagerly asking for more.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream softens the tartness of rhubarb, creating a heavenly duo. A scoop on the side will take your bars to the next level of indulgence.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a luxurious touch atop your bars, enhancing their flavors without overwhelming them. Consider drizzling some caramel sauce over the cream for extra flair!
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Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, offers a gentle balance to the tangy sweetness of the bars, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
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Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing, zesty lemon sorbet provides a bright contrast to the rich rhubarb, refreshing your palate after each bite of those scrumptious bars.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy berries such as strawberries or blueberries add a burst of color and sweetness, complementing the rhubarb with their own delightful flavors. Serve them on the side for a delicious explosion of freshness.
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Sparkling Water: A fizzy glass of sparkling water sprinkled with mint or citrus creates a light and refreshing drink pairing that cleanses the palate and enhances the dessert experience.
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Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of warm, rich chocolate sauce can introduce a wonderful contrast to the tart flavors of the rhubarb bars, making for an unexpectedly delightful combination. Try it, and you’ll find your taste buds dancing!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Rhubarb Dream Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a stress-free baking experience. To do this, simply follow the recipe until the crust is baked, then allow it to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating. You can also dice the rhubarb ahead of time and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy these bars, just pour the prepped filling over the crust and bake as instructed. This method keeps the bars just as delicious, making your busy weeknights feel special with homemade goodness!
Expert Tips for Rhubarb Dream Bars
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Choose Fresh Rhubarb: Ensure your rhubarb is fresh and vibrant. Wilted stalks can lead to a less flavorful filling.
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Don’t Overmix: When whisking the filling, mix just until combined. Overmixing can introduce air and alter the texture of your Rhubarb Dream Bars.
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Watch the Oven Timing: Keep an eye on baking time—if your filling looks set and slightly puffed before 45 minutes, check for doneness to prevent overcooking.
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Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set for cleaner, more beautiful squares.
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Personalize Your Bars: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for an extra layer of flavor in your Rhubarb Dream Bars!
How to Store and Freeze Rhubarb Dream Bars
Room Temperature: Keep your Rhubarb Dream Bars at room temperature for up to 3 days, covered lightly with foil or wax paper to maintain their moisture.
Fridge: Store in the fridge for up to 1 week. Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and protect them from absorbing other aromas.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Cut the bars into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in the oven at 300°F for about 10-15 minutes for that freshly baked taste.
Rhubarb Dream Bars Variations
Feel free to customize these delightful bars to suit your taste or dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously inclusive treat. It’s an easy swap that keeps the texture intact.
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Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use coconut oil in place of butter for a plant-based option. The result will still be surprisingly rich and delightful.
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Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar to your preference—use honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener alternative. It adds a unique flavor twist that’s equally satisfying.
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Diced Fruit: Add 1 cup of strawberries or peaches along with the rhubarb to brighten up the flavors and add a luscious texture that complements the tanginess.
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Coconut Flakes: Stir in 1/2 cup of unsweetened coconut flakes into the filling for an added texture and tropical flair that pairs beautifully with rhubarb’s tartness.
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Cinnamon Spice: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for a warm, comforting aroma that elevates the entire dish, making it perfect for cozy gatherings.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent finish, melt chocolate and drizzle over the cooled bars. The rich chocolate pairs seamlessly with the tartness of the rhubarb.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or finely grated fresh ginger to the filling for an unexpected heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet and tart flavors.
Rhubarb Dream Bars Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting rhubarb?
Absolutely! When choosing rhubarb, look for firm, vibrant stalks that are deep pink or green, avoiding any that have dark spots or are wilted. The more vibrant the color, the more flavorful your bars will be!
How should I store leftover Rhubarb Dream Bars?
You can keep your Rhubarb Dream Bars at room temperature for up to 3 days when covered lightly with foil or wax paper. For longer storage, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week to maintain their freshness.
Can I freeze Rhubarb Dream Bars?
Yes, you can! To freeze, cut the bars into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them gently in the oven for that delicious freshly-baked taste.
What if my filling doesn’t set properly?
No worries! If your filling doesn’t seem to set during baking, it may just need a few extra minutes in the oven. Check for doneness by gently shaking the pan—if the center wobbles slightly but the edges are set, you’re good to go. Remember to allow the bars to cool completely after baking, as they will firm up as they cool.
Are Rhubarb Dream Bars safe for pets or do they contain common allergens?
Very! Rhubarb is safe for folks, but it’s not recommended for pets, particularly dogs or cats due to potential toxicity in their systems. As for allergens, this recipe contains wheat (gluten) and dairy, so be cautious if you have allergies to these ingredients. If you’re looking for a wheat-free option, consider substituting with a gluten-free flour blend!
Rhubarb Dream Bars: Sweet Treat for Home Cooks Everywhere
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8" pan with parchment paper, ensuring it comes up the sides for easy removal later.
- Whirl the crust ingredients in a food processor until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes, until the crust looks pale but not browned.
- Mix the filling by whisking together the eggs, sugar, flour, and salt in a bowl for about 1 minute—no more! Gently fold in the diced rhubarb, creating a colorful blend.
- Pour the filling onto the hot crust, spreading it evenly. Continue to bake for 40-45 minutes, until the filling is set and slightly puffed.
- Cool the bars completely before lifting them out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve to eager taste testers!
