When the first signs of spring appear, my kitchen transforms into a hub of vibrant flavors. This season, with its abundant fresh produce, inspires me to experiment with delightful desserts. One such gem that has captured my heart is these Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese frosting. The moment I take a bite, I’m transported to sunny afternoons enjoying homemade treats—an ideal balance of sweet and tangy that dances on the palate.
With a buttery, oat-crusted base, each bar is topped with a luscious layer of glossy rhubarb filling, completed by a creamy cream cheese topping that brings everything together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re looking to impress friends at a spring gathering or treat yourself during a cozy coffee break, these bars offer a nostalgic flavor that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Let’s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe and savor the essence of spring!
Why will you love these Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese?
Delightful Flavor Combination: The sweet and tangy notes of rhubarb create a perfect balance that tantalizes the taste buds.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these bars come together seamlessly—even for novice bakers.
Versatile Options: Feel free to add strawberries or other fruit for a twist on the delightful filling.
Perfect for Spring Gatherings: Whether for brunch or afternoon tea, these bars are a showstopper that will have guests asking for seconds.
Make Ahead Appeal: Chill them for a couple of hours, and they’re ready to serve, making entertaining effortless.
These Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese create a moment of joy that embodies the spirit of spring!
Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese Ingredients
For the Crust
• Flour – Provides structure for the crust; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; can replace with granulated sugar for a lighter taste.
• Oats – Contributes to a chewy texture; rolled oats can work just as well as quick oats.
• Melted Butter – Binds the crust together; coconut oil serves as a great dairy-free alternative.
For the Rhubarb Filling
• Chopped Rhubarb – The star of the dish, providing a tangy punch; use fresh or thawed frozen rhubarb.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling; honey can be a natural alternative for a unique twist.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the mixture for a perfect consistency; arrowroot starch serves as a good substitute.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; consider almond extract for a delightful variation.
For the Cream Cheese Topping
• Cream Cheese – The creamy base for the frosting; Neufchâtel cheese can offer a lighter texture.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the topping; a sugar alternative can be used for a lower-sugar version.
These Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese offer a delightful spring indulgence that’s not only enjoyable to eat but fun to make!
How to Make Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese
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Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting, line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.
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Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, oats, and melted butter. Mix until the ingredients resemble coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
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Cook the Rhubarb Layer: In a medium saucepan, mix chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and a splash of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Spread the Filling: Carefully pour the warm rhubarb filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
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Bake Again: Bake the assembled bars in the oven for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the filling to set. You’ll know it’s ready when it appears slightly firm to the touch.
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Make the Cream Cheese Topping: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
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Assemble and Chill: After the baking tray has cooled to room temperature, gently spread the cream cheese mixture over the rhubarb layer. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
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Slice and Serve: Once fully chilled, use a sharp knife to slice the bars into squares. Clean the knife blade between cuts to ensure neat edges.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for a decadent twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese
Room Temperature: Keep the bars at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, they should be refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store the rhubarb bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps preserve the creamy cream cheese layer and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer them at room temperature, simply let them sit out for about 30 minutes before serving.
What to Serve with Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese?
Delightfully refreshing and indulgent, these bars open the door to a world of pairing possibilities that elevate your spring dessert experience.
- Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds vibrant, juicy sweetness to balance the rhubarb’s tartness.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream brings creaminess that complements the tangy cream cheese topping perfectly.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over your rhubarb bars, creating a luscious blend of flavors.
- Coffee or Tea: Brewed coffees or a fragrant herbal tea enhance the dessert experience, providing warmth and contrast to each refreshing bite.
- Mint Sprigs: Garnishing with fresh mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing flavor, making each serving visually appealing and inviting.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Elevating the bars further, a drizzle of melted chocolate creates an indulgent touch that pairs beautifully with rhubarb’s tangy profile.
These pairings transform your Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese from a simple dessert to a memorable dining experience, perfect for sharing with loved ones!
Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese Variations
Get ready to make these rhubarb bars your own—with these delightful twists, the possibilities are endless!
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Strawberry Swirl: Mix chopped strawberries into the rhubarb filling for a sweeter and visually stunning layer. The vibrant color will enhance the appeal of your dessert!
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Nutty Crust: Add finely chopped walnuts or almonds to the crust mixture for an extra crunch. This nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the tartness of the rhubarb.
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Coconut Bliss: Substitute half of the butter with coconut oil and sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the cream cheese frosting for a tropical twist. It creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.
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Zesty Lemon: Add a teaspoon of lemon juice and zest to the rhubarb filling for a zesty kick. The bright citrus notes complement the tanginess of the rhubarb perfectly.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Finish your bars with a rich chocolate drizzle on the cream cheese topping for a decadent touch. This combination of flavors will surely impress any chocolate lover!
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Spicy Ginger: Incorporate a teaspoon of ground ginger into your rhubarb filling for warmth and spice. It adds layers of flavor that are simply irresistible!
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Maple Sweetener: Replace granulated sugar in the rhubarb filling with pure maple syrup for a distinct flavor. This natural sweetener adds earthy tones that enhance the dessert.
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Herbed Infusion: Infuse the filling with a hint of fresh basil or mint, finely chopped, for a refreshing herbal note. This unexpected twist will surprise and delight your guests!
Expert Tips for Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese
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Choose Fresh Rhubarb: The flavor of your bars largely depends on the rhubarb’s freshness. Look for firm, vibrant stalks for the best flavor.
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Mind the Moisture: If using frozen rhubarb, be sure to thaw and drain it well. Excess moisture can make your filling runny, affecting the texture.
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Flavor Boost: Adding a dash of lemon zest to the cream cheese topping elevates the overall flavor of your rhubarb bars with cream cheese, making them more vibrant.
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Cutting Tips: For cleanly sliced bars, use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts. This will keep the beautiful layers defined and appealing.
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Chill Well: Let the bars chill for at least 2 hours after adding the cream cheese topping. This allows the flavors to develop and makes slicing easier.
Make Ahead Options
These Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delightful desserts without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the crust and rhubarb filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the crust, cool it, and store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. For the rhubarb filling, cook it as directed, then let it cool before refrigerating in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, spread the cream cheese topping over the firmed-up rhubarb layer and chill for a couple of hours. Rest assured, these bars will be just as scrumptious, saving you time for all of life’s delicious moments!
Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best rhubarb?
Absolutely! When choosing rhubarb, look for firm stalks with a rich color (ideally deep pink or greenish pink). Avoid any that has dark spots or is limp, as these signs indicate age or poor quality. Fresh rhubarb should be crisp and free from any wilted leaves.
How should I store leftover rhubarb bars?
Very straightforward! Store your rhubarb bars with cream cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before wrapping them to prevent moisture buildup, which could impact the texture of the delicious creamy topping.
Can I freeze rhubarb bars with cream cheese?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap individual bars securely in plastic wrap, followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for the best taste and texture.
What can I do if my rhubarb filling is too runny?
No worries! If your filling turns out too runny, it might have excess moisture from frozen rhubarb or not enough cornstarch. To fix this, you can try cooking the filling a bit longer on the stovetop to allow extra liquid to evaporate. For next time, make sure to drain frozen rhubarb very well before mixing it in!
Are these rhubarb bars suitable for people with food allergies?
For sure! While the recipe contains common allergens like dairy and gluten, it can be easily adapted. Use gluten-free flour and coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version. Always double-check with guests who may have allergies, and feel free to swap out ingredients to suit their dietary needs.
How can I enhance the flavor of the cream cheese topping?
Oh, I recommend adding a zest of lemon! Just a pinch of fresh lemon zest stirred into the cream cheese will brighten the flavors significantly. You could also try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of almond extract for an extra layer of richness in your creamy topping!
Delicious Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese for Spring Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, oats, and melted butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish and bake for 15 minutes until golden brown.
- In a medium saucepan, mix chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and a splash of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until thickened, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour the warm rhubarb filling over the baked crust and spread evenly.
- Bake the bars for another 10-15 minutes until the filling is slightly firm to the touch.
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled rhubarb layer. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Slice the bars into squares and serve.