Rhubarb Custard Bars
Rhubarb Custard Bars are the perfect blend of tangy and sweet, encased in a buttery crust that melts in your mouth. These delightful bars are a treasure that showcases the unique flavor of rhubarb, creating a dessert that is both deliciously rich and refreshingly tart. Ideal for gatherings or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars bring a sense of nostalgia and warmth with every bite. This recipe is easy to follow with a step-by-step guide, making it a must-try for both novice and seasoned bakers alike!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe for Rhubarb Custard Bars is a true showstopper when it comes to dessert. The prep is easy, so you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen, making it a fantastic choice for those busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings. The combination of simple, wholesome ingredients makes it family-friendly, ensuring that even your pickiest eaters will rejoice at the first taste. Additionally, the recipe uses classic ingredients that you likely already have on hand, which keeps both your grocery bills and kitchen clutter in check.
Ingredients for Rhubarb Custard Bars
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into cubes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped rhubarb
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sugar
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect bars, with the rhubarb adding a vibrant pop of color and a hint of tartness that cuts through the sweetness, while the buttery crust provides a rich, flimsy base for the custard filling.
Step-by-Step Directions for Rhubarb Custard Bars
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for your Rhubarb Custard Bars.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, cold butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Mix until the texture is crumbly. This will be your crust.
- Press the crumbly mixture evenly into a greased 8×8-inch baking pan. Bake it in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden.
- While the crust is baking, take another bowl and beat together the eggs, 1 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of flour, and salt until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and fluffy.
- Next, stir in the chopped rhubarb until well distributed throughout the egg mixture.
- Once the crust is out of the oven, pour the custard mixture directly over the hot crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake your Rhubarb Custard Bars for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and a beautiful golden hue has developed on top.
- Allow the bars to cool completely. Once cool, slice them into squares and dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your Rhubarb Custard Bars even further, consider adding a touch of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the custard mix—these flavors complement the rhubarb beautifully! If you have other berries on hand, feel free to mix them in for a fruit medley twist. When cutting the bars, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices for perfectly neat edges. You can also vary the thickness of the custard layer according to your preference; for a denser bar, use less custard and enjoy a thicker crust!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These Rhubarb Custard Bars are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For beverages, consider serving a light herbal tea or a refreshing lemonade to contrast the sweetness with a tangy note. They also make a splendid offering for picnics or coffee hour, served alongside fresh fruits or a simple charcuterie board for a delightful contrast.
Nutritional Information
These Rhubarb Custard Bars offer a wonderful balance between indulgence and freshness. Each bar contains approximately 230 calories, with most of the calories coming from the crust and sugar content. You’ll also benefit from fiber found in rhubarb, making this dessert a slightly healthier choice compared to other sweet treats. Just remember, moderation is key, so enjoy them as an occasional treat!
Storing Tips & Variations for Rhubarb Custard Bars
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store your Rhubarb Custard Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully, so feel free to make a double batch for special occasions! Just be sure to wrap cooled bars tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing. For healthier swaps, consider using whole wheat flour or replacing some sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also play around with the fruit; strawberries or apples can be delightful alternatives to rhubarb.
Conclusion for Rhubarb Custard Bars
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines nostalgia with delicious flavors, look no further than these Rhubarb Custard Bars. The vibrant tartness of rhubarb paired with the creamy custard filling will captivate your taste buds. We encourage you to gather your ingredients and try this delightful recipe immediately. Your friends and family will surely thank you!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?
Yes, frozen rhubarb works just as well! Just make sure to thaw and drain it to remove excess moisture.
2. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the custard is set and has a lightly golden top. You can test doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
3. Can I substitute the all-purpose flour?
Certainly! You can use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour as alternatives.
4. Can I add more sugar if I prefer it sweeter?
Feel free to adjust the sugar according to your taste preference, but keep in mind that the rhubarb adds a bright tartness that balances the sweetness.
5. How do I store the Rhubarb Custard Bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage. Just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn!
Rhubarb Custard Bars
Ingredients
For the crust
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into cubes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
For the custard filling
- 1 cup chopped rhubarb
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sugar
- powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, cold butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Mix until crumbly.
- Press the crumbly mixture evenly into a greased 8x8-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden.
Custard Filling
- In another bowl, beat together the eggs, 1 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of flour, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped rhubarb until well mixed.
- Pour the custard mixture over the hot crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and golden.
Finishing
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.