Rhubarb Dream Bars: A Tart and Sweet Slice of Heaven

Spring has sprung, and that means one thing: rhubarb season is here! If you’re looking for a delightful way to celebrate this tangy vegetable (yes, it’s technically a vegetable!), look no further than these Rhubarb Dream Bars. They’re the perfect balance of tart rhubarb and sweet, creamy filling, all nestled on a buttery shortbread crust. These bars are easy to make, and they’re guaranteed to be a hit at potlucks, picnics, or just as a special treat for yourself.

## Why You’ll Love These Rhubarb Dream Bars

* **Perfect Tart-Sweet Balance:** The combination of the tart rhubarb and the sweet filling is simply divine. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite!
* **Easy to Make:** These bars are surprisingly easy to put together. The shortbread crust requires minimal ingredients and comes together quickly, and the rhubarb filling is even simpler.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** These bars are a great make-ahead dessert. They taste even better after they’ve had a chance to chill in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld together.
* **Crowd-Pleaser:** Rhubarb Dream Bars are always a hit with both kids and adults. They’re a unique and delicious alternative to traditional desserts.
* **Showcases Rhubarb:** This recipe really highlights the unique flavor of rhubarb. If you’re a rhubarb lover, you’ll adore these bars!

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start baking, gather your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

**For the Shortbread Crust:**

* 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes

**For the Rhubarb Filling:**

* 4 cups (about 1 pound) fresh rhubarb, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
* 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
* 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg

## Equipment You’ll Need

* 9×13 inch baking pan
* Parchment paper
* Mixing bowls
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Pastry blender or food processor (optional, for the crust)
* Whisk
* Rubber spatula

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Rhubarb Dream Bars:

### Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This is crucial; otherwise, the bars can be difficult to get out cleanly.
2. **Combine dry ingredients:** In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
3. **Cut in the butter:** Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Alternatively, you can use a food processor. Pulse until the mixture comes together in coarse crumbs.
4. **Press into the pan:** Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to help create a smooth, even surface.
5. **Bake the crust:** Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden brown. Let the crust cool slightly while you prepare the rhubarb filling.

### Step 2: Make the Rhubarb Filling

1. **Combine filling ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb, sugar, and flour. Toss to coat the rhubarb evenly.
2. **Add eggs and vanilla:** Add the lightly beaten eggs and vanilla extract to the rhubarb mixture. Stir gently to combine. If desired, add the cinnamon or nutmeg for a touch of warmth.

### Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Dream Bars

1. **Pour filling over crust:** Pour the rhubarb filling evenly over the partially baked shortbread crust.
2. **Bake the bars:** Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden brown. The center should no longer jiggle when the pan is gently shaken.
3. **Cool completely:** Let the bars cool completely in the baking pan on a wire rack. This is important, as the filling will continue to set as it cools. Resist the urge to cut into them while they’re still warm!
4. **Chill (optional, but recommended):** For best results, chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or even overnight. This will allow the filling to firm up and the flavors to meld together beautifully.

### Step 4: Cut and Serve

1. **Lift from pan:** Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the baking pan.
2. **Cut into bars:** Cut the bars into squares or rectangles. A sharp knife is essential for clean cuts. Wipe the knife clean between cuts if the filling is sticky.
3. **Serve and enjoy:** Serve the Rhubarb Dream Bars chilled or at room temperature. You can dust them with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of elegance.

## Tips for Perfect Rhubarb Dream Bars

* **Use cold butter:** Cold butter is crucial for creating a flaky shortbread crust. Make sure your butter is well-chilled before you start. You can even cube it and put it back in the freezer for a few minutes if it seems too soft.
* **Don’t overmix the crust:** Overmixing the shortbread crust will result in a tough crust. Mix the ingredients just until they come together.
* **Use fresh rhubarb:** Fresh rhubarb is best for this recipe. If you’re using frozen rhubarb, thaw it completely and drain off any excess liquid before using it.
* **Adjust the sugar:** If your rhubarb is particularly tart, you may want to add a little extra sugar to the filling. Taste the filling before baking and adjust accordingly.
* **Let the bars cool completely:** This is the most important tip! The bars need to cool completely for the filling to set properly. Don’t rush the process!
* **Chill for best results:** Chilling the bars makes them easier to cut and also allows the flavors to develop even further.
* **Parchment paper is your friend:** Using parchment paper to line the baking pan makes it incredibly easy to remove the bars. Don’t skip this step!
* **Add a crumb topping:** For extra texture and sweetness, consider adding a crumb topping to the bars. Simply combine flour, sugar, and butter and sprinkle it over the filling before baking.
* **Experiment with flavors:** Try adding other flavors to the filling, such as lemon zest, orange zest, or a pinch of ginger.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Gluten-Free:** To make these bars gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the crust and filling. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for binding.
* **Vegan:** To make these bars vegan, use a vegan butter substitute in the crust and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) in the filling. You may also need to adjust the sugar in the filling to compensate for the lack of richness from the eggs.
* **Other fruits:** While this recipe is specifically for rhubarb, you can experiment with other tart fruits, such as cranberries or sour cherries. Just be sure to adjust the sugar accordingly.
* **Nuts:** Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the crust or the filling for added texture and flavor.

## Serving Suggestions

* **As is:** These bars are delicious on their own, served chilled or at room temperature.
* **With whipped cream:** Top the bars with a dollop of whipped cream or whipped coconut cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
* **With ice cream:** Serve the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or rhubarb sorbet for a refreshing dessert.
* **With coffee or tea:** These bars are the perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea.
* **For brunch:** Rhubarb Dream Bars are a great addition to a brunch spread.

## Storing Rhubarb Dream Bars

* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* **Freezer:** These bars can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

## Rhubarb: More Than Just Pie Filling

Rhubarb often gets relegated to pie filling, but this versatile vegetable (yes, it’s a vegetable!) is so much more than that. Its tart flavor adds a unique twist to all sorts of dishes, both sweet and savory.

* **Rhubarb Crumble:** A classic dessert that’s similar to pie but easier to make.
* **Rhubarb Sauce:** A tangy sauce that’s delicious served over grilled meats or fish.
* **Rhubarb Jam:** A sweet and tart jam that’s perfect for spreading on toast or scones.
* **Rhubarb Chutney:** A savory chutney that’s a great accompaniment to cheese and crackers.
* **Rhubarb Cocktails:** Rhubarb syrup adds a unique flavor to cocktails.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, based on 16 servings)

* Calories: 250-300
* Fat: 15-20g
* Saturated Fat: 10-12g
* Cholesterol: 50-60mg
* Sodium: 100-150mg
* Carbohydrates: 30-35g
* Sugar: 20-25g
* Protein: 2-3g

*Please note that nutritional information is approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

## Final Thoughts

Rhubarb Dream Bars are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of spring. With their perfect balance of tart and sweet, creamy filling, and buttery shortbread crust, they’re sure to become a new favorite. So, grab some rhubarb and get baking! You won’t be disappointed.

Enjoy!