Description
Deliciously tangy and sweet rhubarb bars featuring a buttery crust and a soft, fruity rhubarb filling. This easy-to-make dessert combines a crisp, pale baked crust with a smooth rhubarb custard topping, perfect for enjoying as a snack or dessert throughout the year.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter (room temperature)
Filling
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups diced rhubarb
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, extending the paper up the sides to make it easier to lift out the bars later. In a food processor, combine the crust ingredients—flour, sugar, and butter—and pulse until the mixture forms a crumbly dough. Press this evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 15 minutes, just until it sets but remains pale in color.
- Prepare the filling: While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, sugar, flour, and salt in a bowl for about 1 minute, taking care not to overmix. Gently stir in the diced rhubarb to incorporate evenly.
- Bake the rhubarb bars: Once the crust is partially baked, pour the rhubarb filling over the hot crust in the pan. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 40 to 45 minutes, until the filling is set and slightly golden around the edges.
- Cool and serve: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and cut into 16 squares. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing when making the crust.
- Do not overwhisk the filling mixture to prevent a tough texture.
- Dicing the rhubarb into small, even pieces ensures even baking and consistent texture.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American