Rhubarb Dream Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these bars because they perfectly capture the essence of spring with the fresh, tangy rhubarb and buttery shortbread crust. The custard-like filling is just the right mix of sweet and tart, while the shortbread provides a comforting, crumbly base. It’s the ideal dessert for anyone who loves the tartness of rhubarb paired with a rich, smooth texture. Plus, the recipe is simple and comes together relatively quickly, making it perfect for a last-minute treat or a make-ahead dessert for gatherings.

Ingredients

Crust:

• 2 cups (256 g) all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup (85 g) powdered sugar

• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Filling:

(Hint: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and powdered sugar.

3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients and cut it in with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust.

5. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden brown. Set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

For the Filling:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of finely chopped rhubarb, 2 large eggs, 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, and ¼ teaspoon salt.

2. Pour the rhubarb mixture over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.

3. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden on top.

4. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12-16 bars, depending on the size you cut them. Prep time is around 10-15 minutes, and baking time takes about 45-50 minutes (15-18 minutes for the crust and 30-35 minutes for the filling). Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to make sure the filling sets properly.

Variations

These Rhubarb Dream Bars are versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste:

• You can mix in a handful of strawberries with the rhubarb for a classic rhubarb-strawberry combination that balances the tartness of the rhubarb.

• If you prefer a thicker filling, you can increase the amount of rhubarb in the filling.

• For a little extra sweetness, try drizzling a light glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the top of the cooled bars.

Storage/Reheating

Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. If you have leftover bars, they can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen rhubarb for these bars?

Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb in place of fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain the rhubarb before using it in the filling to prevent excess moisture from making the bars too runny.

Can I use a different crust for these bars?

You can substitute the shortbread crust with a graham cracker crust or even an oat-based crust, depending on your preference. The shortbread gives a buttery texture, but these alternatives will still be delicious.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made a day in advance. They actually get better as they sit, allowing the flavors to develop. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer shelf life.

Can I use other fruit in place of rhubarb?

If you don’t have rhubarb or it’s out of season, you can try using other fruits like blueberries or blackberries for a different twist. Just note that the filling will be sweeter without the tartness of rhubarb.

How do I know when the filling is set?

The filling should be firm and slightly golden around the edges. If you insert a toothpick into the center, it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. If it’s still jiggly, let it bake for a few more minutes.

Conclusion

These Rhubarb Dream Bars are the ultimate spring treat, with a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. The buttery shortbread crust provides a solid foundation for the creamy, custard-like rhubarb filling, making every bite deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re bringing them to a potluck, enjoying them at home, or just craving a seasonal dessert, these bars are sure to be a hit.