Rhubarb Custard Bars Recipe

Ever wondered how a dessert can mix sweetness and tartness perfectly? These Rhubarb Custard Bars are a treat. They combine a buttery crust, creamy custard, and a rich cream cheese topping. This makes them perfect for any gathering.

With 5 cups of diced rhubarb, these bars offer a vibrant contrast. They will make your taste buds happy.

These homemade custard bars are easy to make and versatile. You can use fresh or frozen rhubarb. They’re ready in about 55 minutes. The filling’s 1 1/2 cups of sugar balance the tartness, making them refreshing and satisfying.

Let’s explore how to make these delicious bars. Discover why they’re a must-have for your dessert table!

Key Takeaways

• This recipe features a total of 1 1/2 cups of sugar, creating a sweet custard filling.
• 5 cups of diced rhubarb provide a vibrant tart flavor to each bar.
• The cream cheese topping adds a rich, creamy texture with 6 ounces used.
• Each bar contains approximately 314 calories, catering to caloric needs.
• Rhubarb bars can last up to four days in the fridge when stored properly.
• This recipe allows for fruit variations, potentially increasing the fruit to 6-1/2 cups.

Introduction to Rhubarb Custard Bars

Rhubarb Custard Bars are a delightful treat. They have a buttery shortbread crust, a zesty rhubarb custard filling, and a smooth cream cheese topping. These bars are perfect for gatherings and family dinners. Their beautiful layers and vibrant flavors make them a favorite among dessert lovers.

What Are Rhubarb Custard Bars?

These bars have a rich mix of textures and flavors. A tender shortbread crust supports the tangy rhubarb custard filling. This filling highlights the unique, tart taste of rhubarb. The creamy layer on top turns traditional rhubarb into delicious rhubarb treats that impress everyone.

Making rhubarb custard bars at home lets you enjoy their sweet and tangy flavors. This creates an unforgettable taste experience.

The Appeal of Rhubarb in Desserts

The allure of rhubarb is its refreshing tartness. It pairs well with sweet ingredients, making it a favorite in many seasonal recipes. Recently, red, hothouse rhubarb has become popular, adding to its visual appeal in desserts.

With its vibrant color, tangy rhubarb bars are not only tasty but also eye-catching on the dessert table. Rhubarb’s unique flavor profile makes it a star in tangy rhubarb bars. It encourages creativity in the kitchen.

For another dessert bar that balances natural sweetness with wholesome flavors, try our Healthy & Easy Date Bar Recipe. These date bars offer a delicious alternative to the tangy sweetness of rhubarb custard bars.

Ingredients for Making Rhubarb Custard Bars

Making delicious rhubarb bars starts with the right ingredients. Each part is crucial for a tasty dessert. Let’s look at what you need for each part.

Essential Ingredients for the Crust

The crust is the base of your dessert. You’ll need:

• 1-1/4 cup (175 gm) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (35 gm) whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup (114 g) cool butter
• 1/2 cup (100 g) sugar
• 1/4 tsp (1.5 g) salt

This mix makes a crust that’s tender and crumbly. It’s perfect with the custard filling.

Key Ingredients for the Custard Filling

The custard filling makes these bars irresistible. You’ll need:

• 4 to 5 cups (approx 1-1/2 lbs / 680 g) diced fresh rhubarb
• 1-1/2 cups (300 g) sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 5 Tb (44 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp (10 ml) vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp (1.5 g) salt
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream

This mix gives a sweet tang from the rhubarb and a smooth texture from the eggs and cream.

Creating the Cream Cheese Topping

A cream cheese topping adds a rich touch to your bars. Mix:

• 8 oz. cream cheese
• 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream

This creamy layer balances the tartness of the rhubarb. It rewards your taste buds with a perfect dessert.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Rhubarb Custard Bars

Making homemade rhubarb bars is a fun task. Follow these steps to create delicious easy rhubarb custard bars. These instructions are perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.

Preparing the Shortbread Crust

First, heat your oven to 350°F. For the crust, mix:

• 8 ounces (2 sticks) of very cold butter, cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour

Blend until crumbly. Press into a 9×13 inch pan. Bake for about 15 minutes until golden.

Mixing the Custard Filling

While the crust bakes, prepare the custard. In a large bowl, mix:

• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups of sugar (or 3/4 cup of maple syrup for a twist)
• 1/2 cup of flour
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 4 cups of finely chopped rhubarb (use firm, smooth stalks)

Mix until smooth and sweet.

Assembling and Baking the Bars

After the crust is ready, add the rhubarb custard. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until set. Let cool for at least an hour before adding a cream cheese topping.

These homemade rhubarb bars are great for sharing. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days or freeze for three months!

Variations and Tips for Your Rhubarb Custard Bars

Make your rhubarb dessert unique by adding your own twist. You can change up the rhubarb squares recipe to impress everyone. Here are some ideas to make your rhubarb desserts stand out.

Fruit Combinations to Enhance Flavor

Try mixing rhubarb with other fruits for a new taste. Here are some great options:

• Strawberries: Their sweetness balances out the tartness of rhubarb.
• Apples: A classic mix that adds texture and taste.
• Blackberries: Their rich flavor makes the bars even better.
• Oranges: A splash of citrus brightens up the dessert.
• Plums: Their juicy sweetness pairs well with rhubarb.
• Raspberries: Their sharpness adds a fun contrast.

Making It Your Own: Substitutions and Add-ins

Don’t be afraid to try new things in your rhubarb squares recipe:

• For a gluten-free version, use coconut flour and oat fiber.
• Maple syrup is a great sugar substitute; use ¾ cup for 1 cup sugar.
• Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for more flavor.
• Try adding toasted nuts, like almonds or pecans, for crunch and nutrition.
• Adding a bit of rose water or orange blossom water can enhance the aroma.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have questions about rhubarb custard bars. Let’s answer some of the most common ones. This will help you enjoy these sweet and tart dessert bars even more.

Are rhubarb and custard gluten free?

If you’re gluten sensitive, you can make rhubarb custard bars gluten-free. Just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour. This way, everyone can enjoy the best rhubarb bars without worrying about gluten. So, go ahead and indulge, knowing these bars are safe for a gluten-sensitive diet!

Where did rhubarb and custard come from?

Rhubarb and custard have a long history, loved in English cuisine. They’ve been a favorite on dessert tables for years. The sweet and tart mix of rhubarb makes these desserts a hit with many cooks looking for a tasty balance.

For a more indulgent and trending dessert, try our Make the Viral Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe. Its luxurious chocolate layers provide a rich contrast to the light and creamy texture of rhubarb custard bars.

Conclusion

Rhubarb Custard Bars are a true delight, perfect for spring gatherings. They combine the best of seasonal flavors. The tangy rhubarb, creamy custard, and sweet topping make each bite a taste of happiness.

These homemade rhubarb bars are sure to please anyone. They’re easy to make and fun to prepare. You can even add different fruits or ingredients to make them your own.

So, get ready to bake and enjoy the process! Making Rhubarb Custard Bars is not just about the dessert. It’s about sharing homemade love and showing that simple ingredients can create something amazing.