Strawberry Rhubarb Bars Recipe

Strawberry Rhubarb Bars Recipe

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Strawberry Rhubarb Bars Recipe is a delightful treat that brings together the sweet and tart flavors of strawberries and rhubarb in a delicious, easy-to-make dessert. I remember the first time I tried a strawberry rhubarb dessert at my grandmother’s house. The combination of the fruity strawberry and the tangy rhubarb was a match made in heaven. It was love at first bite! Since then, I have been on a mission to find the perfect strawberry rhubarb bars recipe to recreate that childhood memory.

What Makes Strawberry Rhubarb Bars Special?

Strawberry rhubarb bars are special because they combine the best of both worlds. The sweetness of strawberries balances the tartness of rhubarb, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. The buttery crust adds a delightful crunch, making these bars a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a sweet treat, these bars are sure to impress.

Ingredients for Strawberry Rhubarb Bars Recipe

To make these delicious bars, you will need the following ingredients:

Crust

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Filling

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
  • 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Topping

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

How to Make Strawberry Rhubarb Bars

Making strawberry rhubarb bars is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to create your own delicious batch.

Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, butter, salt, and baking powder.
  3. Mix until the dough comes together.
  4. Press the dough into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking pan. Bake for 15 minutes, until lightly golden.
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Make the Filling

  1. In a large bowl, combine chopped strawberries and rhubarb.
  2. Add sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
  3. Stir until the fruit is well coated.
  4. Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly.

Prepare the Topping

  1. In another bowl, mix together flour, oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon.
  2. Sprinkle the topping over the fruit filling.

Bake the Bars

  1. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
  2. Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Tips for Strawberry Rhubarb Bars Recipe

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh strawberries and rhubarb will provide the best flavor and texture. Frozen fruit can work, but fresh is always better.
  • Let Them Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set and makes cutting easier.
  • Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter filling, feel free to adjust the sugar according to your taste.

Serving Suggestions

These strawberry rhubarb bars can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:

  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
  • Dust with powdered sugar for a simple and elegant presentation.
  • Pair with whipped cream for a light and refreshing dessert.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the bars for longer storage. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

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Variations of Strawberry Rhubarb Bars Recipe

I love to experiment with different flavors. Here are some variations you might want to try:

  • Add Nuts: Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a nice crunch to the topping.
  • Use Other Fruits: Mix in blueberries or raspberries with the strawberries and rhubarb for a berry medley.
  • Change the Spice: Try adding ginger or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spicy flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Rhubarb Bars Recipe

This strawberry rhubarb bars recipe is not just delicious but also versatile. The combination of sweet and tart flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The bars are easy to make, and the ingredients are simple and accessible. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will remind you of sunny days and family gatherings.

I hope you enjoy making and sharing these strawberry rhubarb bars as much as I do. They are a beautiful way to celebrate the flavors of spring and summer. Whether you are baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these bars will surely bring a smile to your face.