Name: Rhubarb Custard Bars
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup powdered sugar; ¼ teaspoon Morton kosher salt; 14 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon nutmeg; 6 large eggs; 4 cups diced fresh rhubarb; 6 ounces full-fat block-style cream cheese, at softened room temperature; ½ cup powdered sugar; ½ cup full-fat sour cream; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

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One of my favorite springtime desserts has to be Rhubarb Custard Bars. Each time I bite into these delightful squares, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s garden, where she had rows of vibrant rhubarb stalks growing tall. The tartness of rhubarb combined with the creamy custard filling is simply irresistible. It’s funny how a taste can stir up so many memories, and this dessert does just that for me. I love making Rhubarb Custard Bars during the warmer months when rhubarb is at its peak, and bringing them to family gatherings or enjoying them as an afternoon treat with a cup of tea.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 35 mins

Prep Time:
40 mins

Cook Time:
55 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
240 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Blender, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board

Why This Rhubarb Custard Bars Is So Good

Perfect Balance of Flavors

What I adore about Rhubarb Custard Bars is the incredible balance between tangy rhubarb and sweet custard. The bright flavors harmonize beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s a wonderful way to showcase rhubarb, providing a refreshing contrast to richer desserts.

Versatile Serving Options

These bars are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as a simple dessert after dinner or dress them up with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They’re perfect for a picnic or a potluck, too – everyone loves them!

Easy to Make

Don’t let the layers fool you; making Rhubarb Custard Bars is surprisingly easy. The crust, filling, and topping come together quickly, making it a manageable recipe even for novice bakers. Plus, the satisfaction you get from creating something so delicious is unmatched!

Beautiful Presentation

Let’s not forget how gorgeous these bars look on a dessert platter. With their creamy filling and vibrant rhubarb, they add a pop of color to any gathering. Just cut them into neat squares, and watch as they disappear from the table!

A Nostalgic Treat

For many, including myself, Rhubarb Custard Bars evoke memories of childhood summer days spent outdoors. Each bite brings back stories of family, laughter, and sunny afternoons, making them more than just a dessert – they’re a connection to the past.

Great for Sharing

Finally, these bars are fantastic for sharing. Whether it’s a gathering with friends or a simple get-together, I always encourage everyone to take a piece. The smiles and compliments that follow are the icing on the cake – or should I say, the cream on the bars!

Everything You Need for Rhubarb Custard Bars

The ingredients for Rhubarb Custard Bars are relatively simple yet essential for creating that perfect balance of tart and sweet. Each ingredient has its role to play in the overall flavor and texture of the final product.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the crust, providing structure.
½ cup powdered sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust, making it tender and delicious.
¼ teaspoon Morton kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of all ingredients.
14 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature: For richness and flavor in the crust.
2 cups granulated sugar: Primary sweetener for the filling and balancing the tartness of rhubarb.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Helps in thickening the custard filling.
½ teaspoon salt: To enhance the flavors.
¼ teaspoon nutmeg: Adds warmth and depth to the filling.
6 large eggs: Provides richness and helps set the custard.
4 cups diced fresh rhubarb: The star of the dish, adding a delightful tartness.
6 ounces full-fat block-style cream cheese, at softened room temperature: A luscious topping that enhances the dessert.
½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese topping.
½ cup full-fat sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors in the topping.

Recipe Steps for Rhubarb Custard Bars

Making Rhubarb Custard Bars is a delightful process. You’ll find the steps straightforward, and the aromas filling your kitchen will be incredible!

Preheat the oven to 350° F. Begin by lightly spraying a 9″ x 13″ baking pan with nonstick spray and set it aside. If you want clean cuts for serving, consider lining the pan with parchment paper.
For the crust, in a medium bowl, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Using a rigid pastry blender, cut in the butter until the mixture forms small, ½” sized pieces. This will ensure a flaky crust.
Once well mixed, scatter the crust mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan. Gently press it into an even layer, making sure it’s packed but not overly compacted.
Place the crust in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. The edges should be slightly golden when you take it out.
While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In another medium bowl, stir together granulated sugar, flour, salt, and nutmeg. Mix well to combine.
Next, add the eggs to the dry ingredients, and using a spatula, mix until just evenly combined. It’s important not to overmix at this stage.
Now, gently fold in the diced rhubarb, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly to cover the surface.
Return the pan to the oven and bake at 350° F for 40 to 45 minutes. The top should be lightly browned, and the center should not jiggle when you gently nudge the pan.
Once baked, transfer the pan to a cooling rack and allow it to cool completely. Then refrigerate it for about 2 hours, or until it’s firm enough to cut into bars.
For the cream cheese topping, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Once chilled, cut the bars into squares and serve individual pieces topped with small dollops of the cream cheese mixture. Store any leftovers in the fridge, making sure to let the topping soften for 20 to 30 minutes before serving again.

Things Worth Knowing

Choosing Rhubarb: Opt for bright to deep red or pink stalks for the best color and taste. The fresher the rhubarb, the better your bars will be.
Cooling Time: Don’t rush the cooling process. Letting the bars cool completely ensures that they set up properly for clean cuts.
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. They can last up to a week.
Serving Suggestions: Consider serving with a scoop of ice cream or a sprinkle of fresh mint for added freshness.

Substitutions and Tips

Here are some helpful tips for making Rhubarb Custard Bars even better!

Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can stay fresh for up to a week.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these bars! Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Pairing: They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Variations: Try mixing in different fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a delicious twist on this classic recipe.
Serving Size: Cut the bars into uniform squares for consistent serving sizes. This way, everyone gets an equal share!

Pairing Suggestions for Rhubarb Custard Bars

When it comes to serving Rhubarb Custard Bars, there are so many delightful pairings and occasions!

Spring Gatherings: These bars are perfect for spring picnics or garden parties. Their vibrant color will brighten up any table.
Afternoon Tea: Enjoy them with a cup of tea in the afternoon. They complement herbal teas beautifully!
Family Desserts: Serve them during family dinners or gatherings. They’re a hit with both adults and kids alike!
Seasonal Celebrations: Great for Easter brunch or Mother’s Day celebrations, offering a sweet touch to the occasion.
Storage Notes: If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week, but they are best enjoyed fresh!

FAQ

Rhubarb Custard Bars are special because they combine the tartness of fresh rhubarb with a creamy custard filling, creating a delightful balance of flavors. The buttery crust adds a perfect texture, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or enjoying a simple family dinner, these bars bring a burst of spring to your dessert table.

Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb for Rhubarb Custard Bars. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before incorporating it into the filling. Frozen rhubarb can be a great alternative, especially if fresh rhubarb isn’t available. The end result will still be delicious!

To store leftovers of Rhubarb Custard Bars, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, you can also freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn.

These bars are wonderfully versatile! They pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even served plain with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also dress them up with fresh berries or a sprinkle of mint for an extra touch!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rhubarb Custard Bars are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of spring flavors and family traditions. With their unique combination of tart rhubarb and creamy custard, they are bound to impress your guests and become a favorite in your household. So why not give this recipe a try? I promise you won’t regret it!