Rhubarb Custard Bars
Rhubarb Custard Bars are a delicious and charming dessert that brings the gentle tartness of rhubarb together with a creamy custard filling. The crispy crust perfectly complements the gooey center, creating a delightful bite that is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic treat or something to impress your guests, these bars are the ultimate comfort food. They are easy to prepare, making them perfect for family gatherings or casual afternoons at home. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe so you can whip up your own batch of these delightful bars!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best things about Rhubarb Custard Bars is how simple they are to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dessert that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. The balance of sweet and tart makes these bars a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both adults and children alike. Plus, they can be baked in advance and stored, making them a convenient option for unexpected visitors or a quick treat after dinner. Get ready to enjoy a slice of nostalgia with every bite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The cornerstone of the crust, providing a satisfying, crisp texture.
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed: This adds richness and a flaky quality, making the crust melt in your mouth.
- 2 tbsp sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the crust’s richness.
- 2 large eggs: Providing structure to the filling and a beautiful golden hue.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetening the tart rhubarb while allowing its flavor to shine.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the filling for a custard-like consistency.
- 1/4 tsp salt: A pinch enhances the flavors, ensuring a well-rounded taste.
- 2 cups chopped rhubarb: The star of the show! Juicy, vibrant, and tart, adding a bright note.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking. A hot oven will create the perfect environment for a golden-brown crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cold, cubed butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This will form the base of your bars.
Step 3: Press and Bake
Transfer the crumbly mixture into a greased 8×8-inch pan. Press it firmly into an even layer. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 12–15 minutes or until it’s lightly golden. Keep an eye on it; we don’t want it to become too brown.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In another bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until smooth and well combined. This creates a rich custard base that will cradle the rhubarb.
Step 5: Fold in the Rhubarb
Gently fold in 2 cups of chopped rhubarb into the custard mixture. The vibrant pink and green pieces will add a fresh, tangy flavor to the filling.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake Again
Pour the rhubarb filling over the hot baked crust, spreading it evenly. Bake the entire dish for an additional 35–40 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the Rhubarb Custard Bars cool completely in the pan. Once cool, slice them into squares or bars. For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
To enhance your Rhubarb Custard Bars, consider the following tips:
- Use Fresh Rhubarb: Fresh rhubarb gives the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure it’s thawed and drained.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you find rhubarb too tart, add an extra tablespoon of sugar in the filling.
- Add Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of vanilla can elevate the flavors in the custard, making it even more decadent.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These Rhubarb Custard Bars are best served alone, but they pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They make an excellent addition to potlucks, picnics, or simply enjoyed with a nice cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving them at spring and summer gatherings when rhubarb is in season for a flavorful treat!
Nutritional Information
A single serving of Rhubarb Custard Bars contains approximately:
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 13g
- Protein: 2g
While they are a delightful treat, remember that moderation is key. Enjoying these bars alongside a balanced diet will keep your dessert experience guilt-free!
Storing Tips & Variations
Store any leftover Rhubarb Custard Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; simply cut them into bars, layer them between parchment paper, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
For variations, consider adding different fruits like strawberries or blueberries, or even spices like cinnamon for added warmth. You can also experiment with using whole wheat flour for the crust for a healthier twist!
Conclusion
Now that you have this wonderful Rhubarb Custard Bars recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! The perfect blend of sweet and tart, coupled with the creamy texture, makes these bars a must-try. Don’t hesitate to share your experience and any personal twists you’ve made—everyone will appreciate a delicious slice of these delightful bars!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen rhubarb instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your filling.
2. How long do these bars last?
When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, they will last up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance. Just let them cool, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you are ready to serve.
4. What can I substitute for butter in the crust?
You can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free option, though this may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
5. Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for stability. This will allow you to enjoy these bars gluten-free!
Rhubarb Custard Bars
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Provides a satisfying, crisp texture.
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed Adds richness and flakiness.
- 2 tbsp sugar Balances the crust's richness.
For the filling
- 2 large eggs Provides structure and color to the filling.
- 1 cup sugar Sweetens the tart rhubarb.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Helps thicken the filling.
- 1/4 tsp salt Enhances the flavors.
- 2 cups chopped rhubarb The star ingredient providing tartness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cold, cubed butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Mix until resembling coarse crumbs to form the crust.
- Press the crumbly mixture into a greased 8x8-inch pan and bake for 12–15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Filling
- Whisk together 2 large eggs, 1 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until smooth.
- Fold in the 2 cups of chopped rhubarb.
- Pour the rhubarb filling over the hot baked crust, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
Serving
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares or bars. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.