Rhubarb Custard Bars are a delightful treat that combines the tangy, distinctive flavor of rhubarb with a smooth, sweet custard, all nestled on a buttery shortbread base. This dessert has roots in traditional American baking, gaining popularity particularly in areas where rhubarb is readily available during its peak season in spring.

• Historical Popularity: Originating from the need to use up seasonal produce, rhubarb custard bars have evolved from simple farm kitchen recipes to a favorite at modern bake sales and family gatherings. Rhubarb itself, often considered a vegetable, is treated as a fruit in many desserts and is especially famed for its vibrant red color and tart flavor.
• Unique Dessert Characteristics: What sets these bars apart is their layered texture and contrasting flavors. The base layer, resembling a shortbread crust, offers a firm, crumbly texture that supports the creamy custard filling. This custard is enriched with eggs and heavy cream, giving it a luxuriously smooth consistency that complements the sharpness of the chopped rhubarb.

This delightful combination not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also introduces an interesting flavor profile that is both comforting and refreshing. For more on the unique attributes of rhubarb, visit this Wikipedia article on Rhubarb which delves into its culinary uses and historical cultivation. Additionally, for those interested in exploring other dessert bars, this Wikipedia page on dessert bars provides a broad overview of similar treats. The allure of rhubarb custard bars lies in their ability to balance the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of the custard, creating a perfect dessert option for any occasion.

Ingredients Explained

Understanding the ingredients of Rhubarb Custard Bars is key to mastering their delicious balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays a specific role in crafting the perfect bar, from the crumbly base to the luscious filling and the light, creamy topping.

• Base Ingredients:
  • All-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the crust, giving it enough firmness to support the wet layers above.
  • Sugar – Adds sweetness to temper the tartness of the rhubarb, enhancing the overall flavor of the dessert.
  • Cold butter – Essential for achieving a flaky, shortbread-like texture in the crust. It should be cut into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
• Filling Ingredients:
  • More sugar – Increases the sweetness in the filling, balancing the sharpness of the rhubarb.
  • All-purpose flour – Thickens the custard, ensuring it sets properly without being too runny.
  • Heavy whipping cream – Gives the custard its rich and creamy texture. Substitutes like half-and-half or whole milk can also be used for a lighter version, as noted in this guide on different creams and their culinary uses.
  • Eggs – Bind the filling together, providing structure and richness.
  • Finely chopped rhubarb – The star ingredient that imparts a refreshing tartness and slight crunch. Rhubarb’s sourness is a perfect complement to the sweet custard.
• Topping Ingredients:
  • Cream cheese – Softened cream cheese forms the base of the topping, offering a smooth and tangy layer that contrasts beautifully with the custard.
  • Sugar and vanilla extract – Enhance the flavor of the cream cheese topping, adding sweetness and depth.
  • Whipped heavy cream – Incorporates air into the topping, making it light and fluffy.

Each ingredient must be measured and prepared with care to ensure the bars are a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and creamy. For more insight into the essential role of each baking ingredient, explore this Wikipedia entry on baking ingredients. Additionally, for those looking to get creative with their dessert presentations, this Pinterest board on dessert presentation tips offers a wealth of ideas to make each dish both delicious and visually appealing.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process 

Creating Rhubarb Custard Bars involves a meticulous process that ensures each layer melds perfectly with the others. Here’s a detailed guide to preparing each part of these decadent bars.

• Preparing the Crust:
  1. Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 cup sugar in a mixing bowl.
  2. Cut in 1 cup of cold butter using a pastry blender or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Press the mixture evenly into a greased 13×9-inch baking pan.
  4. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or until lightly browned.
• Making the Custard Filling:
  1. In the same bowl, whisk together 2 cups sugar and 7 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to ensure there are no lumps.
  2. Gradually add 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and 3 large beaten eggs to the sugar-flour mixture, whisking continuously to form a smooth blend.
  3. Stir in 5 cups of finely chopped rhubarb, making sure the fruit is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  4. Pour this filling over the prebaked crust, spreading it out to cover the base completely.
  5. Return the pan to the oven and bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and does not jiggle when shaken.
• Finishing with the Topping:
  1. In a clean bowl, beat 6 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped heavy cream to keep the mixture light and airy.
  3. Once the custard base has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese topping evenly over it.
  4. Cover the pan and refrigerate until the topping is firm, at least 4 hours or overnight.

Each step in this process is designed to enhance the natural flavors and textures of the ingredients, creating a dessert that is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat. For those looking to dive deeper into different baking techniques, consider exploring this Wikipedia article on home baking techniques, which offers additional insights into making desserts like these.

By following these detailed steps, bakers will ensure their Rhubarb Custard Bars turn out perfectly every time, with the right balance of tart rhubarb and sweet, creamy custard. For further inspiration on using seasonal ingredients in desserts, check out this Pinterest collection of spring recipes, which features a variety of options for incorporating fresh produce into baking.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional aspects of Rhubarb Custard Bars can help individuals make informed dietary choices, especially those monitoring their intake for health or fitness reasons. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per bar, highlighting key elements that contribute to its overall profile.

• Caloric Content: Each bar contains approximately 198 calories. The primary sources of these calories are the fats from the butter and cream, and the sugars used in both the crust and filling.
• Fats: There are about 11 grams of fat per bar, with 7 grams being saturated fat from the heavy whipping cream and butter. These ingredients, while providing flavor and texture, also contribute significantly to the fat content.
• Carbohydrates: Each bar has roughly 23 grams of carbohydrates, with 16 grams coming from sugars. The flour used in the crust and custard also adds to the carbohydrate total, providing structure to the bars.
• Proteins and Fibers: There are about 2 grams of protein per bar, mainly from the eggs and cream. Fiber content is around 1 gram per serving, derived from the rhubarb, which is a good source of dietary fiber.

For those interested in a healthier version of this dessert, substitutions can be made to accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences:

• Substitute the sugar with lower-calorie sweeteners like stevia or erythritol to reduce calorie intake.
• Use a blend of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour to increase fiber content.
• Opt for low-fat cream cheese and light whipping cream to decrease the fat content.

These adjustments not only make the bars healthier but also accessible to a wider range of dietary needs. For more detailed information on the nutritional benefits of the main ingredients used in desserts, this Wikipedia article on dessert bars offers further insights.

Variations and Substitutions

Exploring variations and substitutions in the recipe for Rhubarb Custard Bars can cater to different dietary preferences and spice up the traditional recipe with new flavors. Here are some creative alternatives to try:

• Gluten-Free Options: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make the dessert accessible to those with gluten sensitivities. Ensure the blend is suitable for baking to maintain the structure and texture of the bars.
• Vegan Variants: For a vegan version, substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil or vegan butter. Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or commercial egg replacers, and use coconut cream or soy-based cream instead of dairy cream.
• Reducing Sugar: If reducing sugar intake is a priority, decrease the amount of sugar in the filling and use natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup. Be mindful of how these substitutions might affect the texture and set of the custard.
• Adding Flavors: Enhance the flavor profile by incorporating spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg into the crust or filling. Adding vanilla bean or rosewater, as suggested in this Pinterest recipe for rhubarb pie, can introduce aromatic notes that complement the tartness of the rhubarb.
• Dairy Alternatives: Substitute the heavy whipping cream in the filling and topping with lighter options like almond milk or oat cream. These alternatives can reduce the overall fat content while still providing a creamy texture.

Each of these variations not only customizes the bars to different dietary needs but also introduces new layers of flavor that can refresh this classic dessert. For more ideas on creative dessert recipes, this Pinterest board of custard recipes is a valuable resource, offering a range of options that incorporate custard in innovative ways.

Serving and Preservation

Serving and preserving Rhubarb Custard Bars properly ensures they remain delicious and aesthetically pleasing from the moment they’re sliced until they’re ready to be served. Here are tips to perfect both aspects:

• Serving Tips:
  • Temperature: Serve the bars chilled. They are typically more cohesive and easier to cut when cold, which enhances the texture and flavor of the custard.
  • Presentation: Consider dusting the bars with powdered sugar or drizzling a light glaze on top just before serving. This not only adds to the visual appeal but provides an extra touch of sweetness.
  • Accompaniments: Pair the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to contrast the tangy rhubarb. The creaminess of these additions complements the crisp crust and soft custard filling beautifully.
• Preservation Tips:
  • Refrigeration: Keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they can last up to five days.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, Rhubarb Custard Bars can be frozen. Wrap individual bars in cling film and then place them in a zip-lock bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Avoiding Sogginess: To keep the crust from becoming soggy, consider adding a layer of melted chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar to the crust before adding the filling. This barrier can help to protect the crust’s texture against the moisture from the custard.

Following these tips will help maintain the quality and freshness of your Rhubunk Custard Dressarbs and make them a hit at any gathering. For more tips on dessert storage and presentation, refer to this Pinterest board for dessert presentation tips, which provides creative ideas to showcase various desserts.

FAQs

Addressing frequently asked questions about Rhubarb Custard Bars can help bakers of all levels perfect this delightful dessert. Here are some of the most common inquiries and their answers:

• Can I use frozen rhubarb for the bars?
  • Yes, frozen rhubarb works well for this recipe. Ensure it is thawed and well-drained before use to prevent excess moisture from affecting the custard’s texture.
• Why did my custard not set properly?
  • If your custard is runny, it may not have been baked long enough, or there might have been too much liquid in the filling. Make sure to measure ingredients accurately and increase the baking time slightly if needed. Also, allow the bars to cool completely as the custard continues to set while cooling.
• Can I make these bars ahead of time?
  • Absolutely, Rhubarb Custard Bars are perfect for making ahead. Prepare and bake the bars as directed, then cover and refrigerate. They taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
• How can I make the bars less sweet?
  • To reduce sweetness, decrease the amount of sugar in the custard filling. You can experiment by reducing the sugar by one-fourth or one-third. Alternatively, increasing the rhubarb quantity will also enhance the tartness, balancing the overall sweetness.
• Are there any other fruits that work well with this recipe?
  • Rhubarb pairs wonderfully with strawberries, which can be added to the recipe for a delightful twist. Mix chopped strawberries with the rhubarb for a sweeter, fruitier flavor profile.

Rhubarb Custard Bars

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★★★

3 from 1 reviews

• Author: Naomi
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 24 bars

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Rhubarb Custard Bars blend the tartness of fresh rhubarb with the sweet, creamy richness of custard, all layered over a buttery shortbread crust.

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Ingredients

Base:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup sugar

1 cup cold butter

Filling:

2 cups sugar

7 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 cup heavy whipping cream

3 large eggs, beaten

5 cups finely chopped fresh or frozen rhubarb, thawed and drained

Topping:

6 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped

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Instructions

Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine 2 cups flour and 1/4 cup sugar; cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press into a greased 13×9-in. baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes.

Prepare Filling: For the filling, combine 2 cups sugar and 7 tablespoons flour in a bowl. Whisk in cream and eggs. Stir in the rhubarb. Pour over the prebaked crust.

Bake the Filling: Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, or until custard is set. Allow to cool completely.

Prepare Topping: For the topping, beat cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth; fold in whipped cream.

Finish the Bars: Spread the topping evenly over the cooled custard. Cover and chill in the refrigerator.

Serve: Cut into bars when fully chilled. Store in the refrigerator.

Notes

• Ingredient Quality: For the best results, use fresh rhubarb during its peak season in late spring to early summer. If using frozen rhubarb, ensure it is thoroughly thawed and drained to remove excess moisture.
• Baking Tips: To prevent the crust from becoming too brown before the custard is set, you may cover the edges of the pan with aluminum foil midway through baking.
• Serving Suggestions: These bars are best served chilled. For a decorative touch, sift powdered sugar over the top or drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze before serving.
• Variations: Add a layer of strawberries to the rhubarb for a sweet twist, or sprinkle ginger into the crust mixture for a bit of spice.
• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Nutritional Adaptations: For a lower sugar version, reduce the sugar in the filling and substitute part of the flour in the crust with ground almonds for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 350 kcal per bar