Rhubarb cream cheese bars are a creamy, indulgent treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. With their tangy rhubarb filling and rich cream cheese layer, these bars are perfect for family gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack. They’re healthy, kid approved, and great for meal prep!
Table of Contents
Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
Ingredients for Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars
- 1 cup fresh rhubarb, chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, melted
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Essential Kitchen Tools
- 8×11-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Knife for swirling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Rhubarb Filling
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your baking dish. In a small saucepan, combine the chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook this mixture over medium heat for about 10 minutes until the rhubarb softens and releases its tart juices. Remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.
Making the Base Layer
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of flour, graham cracker crumbs, and baking powder. In another large bowl, mix the melted butter with light brown sugar until smooth. Then, add one egg, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined. Gently fold in the flour mixture until no dry spots remain, creating a rich and buttery base.
Combining the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of flour, and the remaining egg until smooth and creamy. This delightful layer will add a luscious texture to your bars.
Assembling the Bars
Spread the base layer mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Next, spoon the rhubarb filling and cream cheese mixture alternately over the base layer. Use a knife to gently swirl the mixtures together for a beautiful marbled effect.
Baking and Cooling
Bake your bars in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and a bit jiggly. Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares.
Tips for Perfect Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars
Substitutions and Variations
If you wish to experiment, feel free to substitute other fruits like berries for a different flavor profile. You can also use almond extract instead of vanilla, or replace lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a zesty twist. For extra crunch, consider using cookie crumbs instead of graham cracker crumbs.
Storage Recommendations
Store any leftover rhubarb cream cheese bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They taste just as delightful cold or at room temperature!
FAQs
What ingredients are needed for rhubarb cream cheese bars?
You will need fresh rhubarb, granulated sugar, lemon juice, all-purpose flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, butter, light brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and cream cheese.
How long do rhubarb cream cheese bars need to bake?
Rhubarb cream cheese bars need to bake for about 30 to 40 minutes or until the center is set.
Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb. Just be sure to defrost it and drain any excess liquid before using.
What is the best way to store rhubarb cream cheese bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
How can I make rhubarb cream cheese bars gluten-free?
To make these bars gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your graham cracker crumbs are gluten-free as well.
Related Recipes to try
- Rhubarb Cream Cheese Dessert
- Rhubarb Custard Cake
- Grandma’s Rhubarb Dessert
- Contest-Winning Rhubarb Meringue Pie
- Crustless Rhubarb Custard Pie
Conclusion
These rhubarb cream cheese bars are a delicious way to enjoy the unique tartness of rhubarb. You can easily share the joy of baking by pinning this recipe on Pinterest. Whether you serve them at a family function or enjoy them during a quiet moment at home, they’re sure to bring smiles all around!
Delicious Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars You’ll Love
Equipment
- oven
- baking dish
- saucepan
- mixing bowls
- knife
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh rhubarb, chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 stick butter, melted
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×11-inch baking dish.
- Cook rhubarb, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat for about 10 minutes until softened.
- Mix 3/4 cup flour, graham cracker crumbs, and baking powder in a bowl.
- Combine melted butter and brown sugar in a larger bowl, then add one egg, cinnamon, and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Gradually incorporate the flour mixture and spread in the prepared baking dish.
- Blend cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of flour, and the remaining egg until smooth.
- Spoon rhubarb and cream cheese mixtures alternately over the base and swirl together.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until the center is set, then cool before cutting into bars.
