Homemade Rhubarb Bars recipe
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Rhubarb, with its unique tangy flavor, is a beloved ingredient in many spring and summer desserts. Known for its vibrant red stalks and tart taste, rhubarb pairs perfectly with sweet elements to create a balanced and delightful treat. One such delectable dessert is homemade rhubarb bars. These bars are perfect for picnics, family gatherings, or just a sweet snack to enjoy at home. Below, you will find a step-by-step guide to making your own rhubarb bars, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the rhubarb filling:
- 4 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped into small pieces
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of one lemon (optional, for added brightness)
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Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, 2 cups of flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix until the ingredients come together to form a crumbly dough. Press this dough evenly into the prepared baking dish to form a solid base.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it turns a light golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Rhubarb Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Add the granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of flour, and vanilla extract, and mix well until fully combined. Fold in the chopped rhubarb and lemon zest (if using).
- Pour and Bake: Pour the rhubarb filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the rhubarb bars to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, cut them into squares or bars. For a finishing touch, you can dust them with powdered sugar before serving.
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Tips for Perfect Rhubarb Bars:
- Choosing Rhubarb: Look for firm, crisp stalks with a bright red color. Avoid any that are limp or blemished.
- Balancing the Tartness: Rhubarb is naturally tart, so adjusting the sugar level to your taste is crucial. If you prefer a sweeter bar, you can increase the sugar slightly.
- Adding Other Fruits: Rhubarb pairs well with strawberries. You can add a cup of chopped strawberries to the filling for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days and can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
Conclusion:
Homemade rhubarb bars are a delightful way to enjoy the unique flavor of rhubarb. With their buttery crust and tangy-sweet filling, these bars are sure to become a favorite treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Enjoy baking and savoring these delicious rhubarb bars!
