Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars Recipe

If you’re searching for a delightful treat that brings the perfect balance of sweet and tart, you absolutely have to try this Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars Recipe. These bars combine juicy strawberries and tangy rhubarb with a buttery crumb topping, creating a mouthwatering dessert that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just craving something special, this recipe is sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple yet impactful, the ingredients in this Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars Recipe come together to create a harmonious flavor and texture. Each element is carefully chosen to build structure, sweetness, and that irresistible golden crumb topping.

• 2 cups chopped strawberries: Fresh strawberries bring natural sweetness and vibrant color to the filling.
• 2 cups chopped rhubarb: Rhubarb adds a tangy contrast that perfectly balances the strawberries’ sweetness.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the fruit filling just right without overpowering it.
• 2 tbsp cornstarch: Helps thicken the fruit mixture so it sets beautifully in the bars.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds brightness and enhances the fruit flavors.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the crumbly crust and topping.
• 1 cup rolled oats: Adds texture and a hearty note to the topping.
• 1 cup brown sugar: Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the crumble.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuses the crumb topping with a warm, cozy spice.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Helps lighten the crumb mixture for perfect texture.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Key to creating that rich, buttery crumb topping and crust.

How to Make Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 baking pan with parchment or lightly grease it to ensure your bars don’t stick and are easy to lift out after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Fruit Filling

In a bowl, combine chopped strawberries, chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. This mixture will create the luscious, jammy layer inside your bars, so get all those flavors well incorporated.

Step 3: Prepare the Crumb Mixture

In a separate large bowl, whisk together flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Adding the dry ingredients first helps distribute the flavors evenly.

Step 4: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for that flaky, buttery crumb texture you’re aiming for.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Press about two-thirds of your crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of your baking pan to form an even crust. Then, spread the fruit filling evenly over the crust. Finally, sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the fruit layer, creating a beautiful topping ready to bake.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place your assembled bars into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the crumb topping is a gorgeous golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges. Allow the bars to cool completely to set before slicing.

How to Serve Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars Recipe

Garnishes

These bars are lovely on their own, but topping them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes them to the next level. Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

Side Dishes

Consider serving these crumb bars alongside a light salad or a cheese platter for a balanced dessert spread. They also pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee during cozy afternoons.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bars into small squares for a party platter or stack them creatively on a dessert tray. For a fun twist, drizzle with a sweet glaze or dust with powdered sugar just before serving to add an eye-catching touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling, store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate to keep them fresh for around a week. This helps maintain that perfect crumbly texture without drying them out.

Freezing

These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator to retain their flavor and texture.

Reheating

For a warm treat, reheat individual bars in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or warm them in an oven preheated to 300°F for about 10 minutes. This refreshes the crumb topping and softens the fruit filling perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh for the Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen strawberries and rhubarb work well, just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid beforehand to avoid a soggy crust.

Is it possible to make the crust gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different, but it will still taste delicious.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Sure! You can adjust the sugar amounts to your preference, but be cautious if reducing too much as it balances the tartness of the rhubarb and controls the filling’s consistency.

How thick should I press the crust layer?

Press the crust firmly but not too thick; around half an inch works perfectly to support the fruit filling and provide a nice base without overpowering the bars.

What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?

Use a sharp knife and wait until the bars are completely cooled. For extra clean cuts, chill them briefly in the fridge before slicing.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars Recipe—it captures that perfect harmony of sweet and tart with buttery, crumbly goodness. It’s the kind of dessert you’ll want to make over and over again, sharing with friends and family at every opportunity. So go ahead, dive into baking these bars; I promise your taste buds will thank you!

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