Rhubarb Oat Bars Recipe is one of my favorite treats to whip up during the spring. The tartness of rhubarb combined with the sweetness of oats creates a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. I remember the first time I tasted these bars at a friend’s picnic. The balance of flavors and the chewy texture made me fall in love instantly. Since then, I have been perfecting my own Rhubarb Oat Bars Recipe, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
What is Rhubarb Oat Bars Recipe?
Rhubarb is a unique vegetable that is often mistaken for a fruit. It has vibrant red or green stalks and a tart flavor that pairs well with sweet ingredients. I love using rhubarb in desserts because it adds a refreshing zing. You can find rhubarb in grocery stores or farmers’ markets during the spring and early summer months.
Why You’ll Love These Rhubarb Oat Bars Recipe
These Rhubarb Oat Bars are not only delicious but also easy to make. Here are a few reasons why you will love this recipe:
- Quick to Prepare: With simple ingredients, you can whip these bars up in no time.
- Healthy Option: Oats provide fiber, and rhubarb is low in calories.
- Versatile: You can enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast.
- Freezable: These bars freeze well, making them great for meal prep.
Ingredients for Rhubarb Oat Bars Recipe
Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather the ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
For the Oat Base:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Rhubarb Filling:
- 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
How to Make Rhubarb Oat Bars
Making these bars is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to create your delicious Rhubarb Oat Bars.
Step 1: Prepare the Rhubarb Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Make the Oat Base
In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract, then stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.
Step 3: Assemble the Bars
Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the pan to create a base. Spread the rhubarb filling evenly over the oat layer. Finally, crumble the remaining oat mixture on top of the rhubarb.
Step 4: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes or until the top is golden brown. The rhubarb filling will bubble slightly. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Rhubarb Oat Bars Recipe
To make your baking experience even better, here are some helpful tips:
- Use Fresh Rhubarb: Fresh rhubarb gives the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find it, frozen rhubarb can work too; just thaw and drain excess moisture.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter filling, feel free to add more sugar. Taste the rhubarb mixture before baking to find your perfect balance.
- Add Nuts or Seeds: For added crunch, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or seeds into the oat base.
Storing Your Rhubarb Oat Bars
Once your bars are baked and cooled, you can store them easily. Here’s how:
- At Room Temperature: Keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Refrigerator: They will last up to a week when stored in the fridge.
- Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
These Rhubarb Oat Bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with a few simple additions. Here are some ideas:
- Serve with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top adds a creamy contrast to the tart rhubarb.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar gives a nice touch and makes for a beautiful presentation.
- Pair with Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can enhance the flavors even more.
Variations of Rhubarb Oat Bars Recipe
If you want to switch things up, consider these variations:
- Strawberry Rhubarb Bars: Add diced strawberries to the rhubarb filling for a sweet twist.
- Nutty Oat Bars: Mix in chopped walnuts or almonds into the oat mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Coconut Oat Bars: Add shredded coconut to the oat mixture for a tropical flair.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per bar (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 3g
Baking these Rhubarb Oat Bars has become a delightful tradition in my kitchen. The combination of tart rhubarb and sweet oats is simply irresistible. Whether you are hosting a gathering or just need a sweet treat, these bars are sure to impress. I encourage you to give this Rhubarb Oat Bars Recipe a try. You might just find a new favorite dessert in the process!