Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese

Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese are a delightful treat that perfectly marries the tartness of fresh rhubarb with the creamy sweetness of cheese. The vibrant pink and green colors make these bars visually stunning, while their balanced flavors create a heavenly combination that will impress friends and family alike. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, these bars are a wonderful addition to any occasion.

As you take a bite, you’ll experience the sweet, creamy texture accompanied by a delightful crunch from the oat crust. In this article, we’ll explore how to make these delicious bars from scratch, highlighting the key ingredients and simple steps involved in crafting this delectable dessert. Let’s dive in and create something special together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing seasonal rhubarb ensures freshness and vibrant flavor.
2. Ease of Preparation: One-pan recipe that’s simple and quick to follow.
3. Nutrition: Wholesome ingredients bring a delightful taste without overly indulgent calories.
4. Versatility: Perfect for various occasions – dessert, breakfast treat, or picnic snack.
5. Presentation: Their colorful appearance makes them a hit at gatherings.

These bars are sure to bring joy and satisfaction!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total time: 1 hour
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 45 minutes
  (Note: Times may vary.)

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese, you’ll start by selecting the right ingredients. You’ll need 2 cups chopped rhubarb, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 tbsp cornstarch, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 8 oz cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 cup melted butter, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup rolled oats, and 1/2 cup brown sugar.

Chopped Rhubarb

Rhubarb provides a tart base for the bars, balancing perfectly with sweetness.

• Prepare by washing, trimming, and chopping it finely.
• If you’re looking for an alternative, consider using frozen rhubarb, but thaw it and drain excess moisture first.
• Ensure you select bright, firm stalks to avoid bitterness.

Granulated Sugar

This ingredient sweetens the filling and crust.

• Measure out and mix with rhubarb.
• If you prefer, you can substitute with coconut sugar for a more caramel flavor.
• Be careful not to use too much, as overly sweet bars may lose that delightful tartness.

Cornstarch

Cornstarch thickens the rhubarb filling.

• Combine it with sugar before adding to rhubarb.
• If you’re looking for an alternative, arrowroot powder works similarly well.
• Ensure to mix it thoroughly to avoid lumps in the filling.

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese adds richness and creaminess to the bars.

• Soften before mixing for a smooth filling.
• If you’re looking for an alternative, Neufchâtel cheese can reduce fat content while maintaining flavor.
• Use full-fat for the best creamy texture.

Melted Butter

Butter gives moisture and flavor to the crust.

• Soften or melt butter before measuring and combine with oats and flour.
• If you’re looking for an alternative, coconut oil adds a different, but delicious flavor.
• Avoid using margarine, as it may affect texture.

All-Purpose Flour

This ingredient forms the base of your crust.

• Measure carefully to ensure a sturdy structure.
• If you’re looking for an alternative, gluten-free flour can be used, but be aware of different textures.
• Sift before use to avoid clumps.

Rolled Oats

Oats create a hearty crust.

• Use regular rolled oats and mix with flour and sugar.
• If you’re looking for an alternative, almond flour can add a nutty flavor.
• Ensure oats are not instant, as they need to maintain their shape.

Brown Sugar

Brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle molasses taste.

• Mix it well into your crust mixture.
• If you’re looking for an alternative, maple sugar can also work well.
• Keep it tightly sealed to prevent it from hardening.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This easy one-pan recipe allows you to whip up delightful rhubarb bars without too much fuss. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a large bowl, mix 1 cup melted butter, 1 cup rolled oats, 1 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/2 cup brown sugar until it resembles a crumbly texture. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch pan. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3: Make the Filling

While the crust is baking, combine 2 cups chopped rhubarb, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in a bowl. Stir until the rhubarb is coated evenly.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another bowl, blend 8 oz cream cheese with 1 cup powdered sugar until smooth. This adds a deliciously creamy layer to your bars.

Step 5: Layer the Ingredients

After the crust has baked, spread the cream cheese mixture over the warm crust evenly. Top with the rhubarb mixture, ensuring an even distribution over the cream cheese.

Step 6: Bake Again

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender and bubbly, and the top is slightly golden.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely. Cut into squares when set. This cooling step is crucial for the bars to hold their shape!

How to Serve

1. Presentation: Dust with extra powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
2. Accompaniments: Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra delight.
3. Portions: Slice into small squares for dessert or larger pieces for a satisfying snack.
4. Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing lemonade.

These serving tips will elevate your bars even further!

Additional Tips

• Enhance flavor by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the rhubarb mix.
• Customize the filling by including a handful of strawberries for added sweetness.
• Serve warm for a comforting dessert, or chilled for a refreshing treat!

Recipe Variations

1. Berry Bliss: Add mixed berries, such as blueberries or strawberries, for a fruity twist.
2. Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
3. Zesty Lime: Add lime zest to the cream cheese mixture for a citrusy flavor burst.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Cut into squares and freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Special Equipment

1. 9×13-inch baking pan
2. Mixing bowls
3. Whisk
4. Measuring cups and spoons
5. Cutting board
6. Sharp knife

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen rhubarb instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen rhubarb works well. Just thaw and drain excess moisture before using.

2. Is this recipe healthy?
These bars can be a healthier dessert option, made from fresh ingredients and reduced sugar if desired.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.

4. How can I customize the flavor?
Feel free to experiment with different fruits or spices to create your unique version!

5. What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch pan?
You can use a smaller pan, but adjust baking time and check for doneness consistently.

Conclusion

Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese are a delightful dessert that showcases seasonal produce while being easy to prepare and visually appealing. Their perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors makes them ideal for any gathering, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. Give this delightful recipe a try and impress your loved ones—it’s a treat everyone will enjoy!

Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese

A delightful dessert that perfectly combines the tartness of fresh rhubarb with the creamy sweetness of cheese, making it a visually stunning and delicious treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 12 pieces

Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients

  

Crust Ingredients

• 1 cup melted butter Soften or melt before measuring.
• 1 cup rolled oats Use regular rolled oats.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour Sift before use to avoid clumps.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar Keep tightly sealed to prevent hardening.

Filling Ingredients

• 2 cups chopped rhubarb Bright, firm stalks avoid bitterness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar Substitute with coconut sugar for a caramel flavor.
• 2 tbsp cornstarch Mix thoroughly to avoid lumps.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 8 oz cream cheese Soften for a smooth filling.
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, mix together melted butter, rolled oats, all-purpose flour, and brown sugar until crumbly.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking pan and bake for 15 minutes.

Making the Filling

• Combine the chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Stir until evenly coated.
• In another bowl, blend cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth.

Assembling and Baking

• Spread the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust evenly, then top with the rhubarb mixture.
• Return to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the rhubarb is tender and bubbly.

Cooling and Serving

• Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Notes

Dust with extra powdered sugar before serving. Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Keyword Cream Cheese Dessert, Easy Dessert, Rhubarb Bars, Seasonal Recipe, Summer Treat