Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars Recipe

Looking for a dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors? Look no further! These Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars combine the juicy sweetness of strawberries with the tangy kick of rhubarb, all encased in a buttery, crumbly crust. Whether you're planning a summer picnic, a cozy afternoon snack, or simply craving something special, this recipe is a must-try. Follow along for the best tips, step-by-step instructions, and everything you need to make this delicious treat. Read on, and don’t miss a single detail!

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What Are Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars?

Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert made up of three layers: a buttery crust, a sweet-tangy strawberry rhubarb filling, and a crunchy crumb topping. The combination of fresh strawberries and rhubarb creates a harmony of flavors that makes each bite irresistible. While these bars are commonly enjoyed in the spring and summer, they’re so good you’ll want to make them all year long!

Ingredients List for Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s start with a list of ingredients you'll need. These ingredients are easy to find and you may already have most of them in your pantry.

For the Crust and Crumble Topping:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional for added flavor)

For the Strawberry Rhubarb Filling:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
• 2 cups fresh rhubarb, diced
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening)

Ingredient List for a Gluten-Free Variation

Want to make this recipe gluten-free? No problem! Simply swap out a few ingredients for their gluten-free counterparts.

For the Gluten-Free Crust and Crumble Topping:

• 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1 cup gluten-free oats
• 1 cup unsalted butter (or plant-based butter for dairy-free)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

The rest of the ingredients for the filling remain the same. Just make sure to check that your oats and cornstarch are labeled gluten-free!

Substitutions and Variations

Don’t have rhubarb on hand? Don’t worry—this recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some substitutions and variations to consider:

• Substitute Rhubarb: If rhubarb is out of season or unavailable, you can substitute with other tart fruits like raspberries, cranberries, or even sour cherries.
• Vegan Version: To make these bars vegan, simply replace the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and ensure that the sugar you use is vegan-friendly.
• Swap Strawberries: If strawberries aren’t your favorite, you can easily replace them with blueberries, blackberries, or peaches.
• Add Nuts: To give your crumb bars an added crunch, sprinkle some chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts into the crumble topping.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make your very own Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars? Follow these simple steps to create a delectable dessert.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper to make for easier removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust and Crumb Topping

In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter to the mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the vanilla extract and lemon zest, mixing until well incorporated.

Step 3: Form the Crust

Take about two-thirds of the crumb mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to form the crust. Set aside the remaining one-third for the crumb topping.

Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Rhubarb Filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the fruit begins to release its juices and soften. Sprinkle in the cornstarch and continue to stir until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Pour the strawberry rhubarb filling over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top of the filling, ensuring that it covers the entire surface.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

How to Cook Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

To recap, making Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars involves six main steps: preheating the oven, preparing the crust and topping, forming the base, cooking the filling, assembling the bars, and finally baking them to perfection. Be patient and allow the bars to cool before slicing, as the filling will set during this time, making them easier to cut and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Cooling the Bars: One of the most common mistakes is cutting the bars before they’ve had time to cool. The filling needs time to set properly, so let the bars cool for at least an hour before slicing.
• Overcooking the Filling: When making the strawberry rhubarb filling, don’t overcook the fruit. You want the strawberries and rhubarb to soften but not turn into mush.
• Underbaking the Crust: Make sure the crust is golden brown before taking the bars out of the oven. Underbaking will result in a soggy bottom layer.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when it comes to making your Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars irresistible. Here are some serving and presentation ideas that will impress your family and guests.

How to Serve Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars

These bars are best served slightly warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. For an afternoon snack, enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea.

Presentation Ideas for Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars

• Dust with Powdered Sugar: For a classic look, dust the top of your bars with a light coating of powdered sugar before serving.
• Garnish with Fresh Fruit: Add a pop of color by garnishing the plate with a few fresh strawberries or a sprig of mint.
• Serve in Decorative Dishes: For a party or special occasion, serve the bars on a cake stand or colorful dessert plates to make them even more enticing.

Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: These bars can be made a day in advance. Just cover and store them at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to three days.
• Freeze for Later: If you have leftovers or want to make a batch ahead of time, these bars freeze well. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Use Fresh or Frozen Fruit: If fresh strawberries and rhubarb aren’t available, you can use frozen fruit. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before using to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries and rhubarb?
A: Yes, frozen fruit works well in this recipe! Just be sure to thaw and drain the fruit thoroughly before using it to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.

Q: How should I store these bars?
A: You can store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Absolutely! Simply swap out the butter for a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter.

Q: What other fruits can I use?
A: You can replace the strawberries and rhubarb with other fruits like blueberries, peaches, raspberries, or a mix of berries.

Q: How do I know when the bars are done baking?
A: The bars are done when the crumb topping is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling. You can also check the crust to make sure it’s firm and baked through.

Conclusion

Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the sweet juiciness of strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb, all wrapped up in a buttery, crumbly crust. This recipe is simple to follow, highly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, these bars will surely become a favorite. With our step-by-step guide, substitution options, and presentation tips, you're all set to make the perfect batch. Try it out today, and enjoy this delicious treat with your loved ones!

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