Rhubarb Shortbread Bars: A Taste of Spring

Spring has sprung, and what better way to celebrate the season’s bounty than with these delightful Rhubarb Shortbread Bars? This recipe brings together the tartness of rhubarb with the buttery crumbliness of shortbread, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Imagine sinking your teeth into a square of golden-brown shortbread, its delicate sweetness giving way to a vibrant, jam-like rhubarb filling – a truly irresistible treat! These bars are not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make, perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated dessert for a dinner party, a delightful treat for afternoon tea, or simply a comforting snack, these Rhubarb Shortbread Bars are guaranteed to impress. Prepare to be amazed by the simple elegance and unforgettable taste of this spring-inspired recipe. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more!

Tangy Rhubarb Shortbread Bars

These delightful bars combine a buttery, crumbly shortbread crust with a sweet and tart rhubarb filling. Perfect for a spring dessert or afternoon tea.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Bakery, Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 bars

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper

Ingredients

  

Shortbread Crust

• 1 cup Unsalted butter (2 sticks), softened
• 0.5 cup Granulated sugar
• 2.25 cups All-purpose flour
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt

Rhubarb Filling

• 4 cups Rhubarb chopped (about 1 pound)
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground cinnamon optional

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the bars out later.
• Make the shortbread crust: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the flour and salt until just combined. Do not overmix.
• Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
• Meanwhile, prepare the rhubarb filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using).
• Pour the rhubarb filling evenly over the partially baked shortbread crust.
• Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and slightly thickened. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
• Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.

Notes

For a more intense rhubarb flavor, use frozen rhubarb and thaw it completely before using. You can also add a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top of the filling before baking for extra crunch.

Keyword bars, easy dessert, recipe, rhubarb, shortbread, spring dessert

Why You’ll Love This Rhubarb Shortbread Bars Recipe

There are so many reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for these Rhubarb Shortbread Bars. First and foremost, the flavor combination is simply divine. The tangy rhubarb perfectly complements the buttery sweetness of the shortbread, creating a harmony of tastes that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The texture is equally delightful: a slightly crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread base topped with a luscious, jam-like rhubarb filling. It’s the perfect textural contrast that elevates this dessert to a whole new level. Furthermore, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to your liking by adding different spices, nuts, or even a swirl of lemon zest to the filling. The possibilities are endless! Beyond the taste and texture, these bars are incredibly easy to make. Even beginner bakers will find this recipe straightforward and manageable, ensuring a successful baking experience. And let’s not forget the visual appeal: a golden-brown slab of shortbread adorned with a vibrant rhubarb filling makes for a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress your guests. These Rhubarb Shortbread Bars are the perfect combination of deliciousness, ease, and visual appeal, making them a must-try for any occasion.

Why You Should Try This Rhubarb Shortbread Bars Recipe

Beyond the deliciousness, this recipe offers a plethora of advantages. Firstly, it’s incredibly versatile. Love a bit of spice? Add a dash of ginger or cardamom to the rhubarb filling. Prefer a different fruit? Swap the rhubarb for another tart fruit like berries or cherries. The possibilities for customization are endless, ensuring this recipe remains a go-to for years to come. Secondly, these bars are remarkably easy to make. The shortbread crust comes together quickly and the rhubarb filling requires minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend baking. Thirdly, this recipe offers a wonderful opportunity to use seasonal ingredients. Rhubarb, a spring vegetable, adds a unique and vibrant flavor to this treat, making it a perfect celebration of the season. Moreover, it’s a crowd-pleaser. The combination of textures and flavors appeals to a wide range of palates, guaranteeing that everyone will enjoy this dessert. Finally, these bars are relatively healthy compared to other desserts; the inclusion of rhubarb provides a dose of fiber and vitamins. Give your taste buds a seasonal treat and make these Rhubarb Shortbread Bars today!

Ingredients and Utensils for Perfect Rhubarb Shortbread Bars

Gathering the right ingredients and tools is key to baking success. This section details everything you’ll need to create these irresistible Rhubarb Shortbread Bars.

Ingredients:

• Shortbread Crust:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – Granulated sugar provides the perfect sweetness for the shortbread.
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – Use a good quality all-purpose flour for the best texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt enhances the flavors of the shortbread.
• Rhubarb Filling:
• 4 cups rhubarb, chopped (about 1 pound) – Fresh rhubarb is best, but frozen can be used as well (thawed and drained).
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Adjust to your preference for sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – This helps thicken the rhubarb filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) – A hint of cinnamon adds warmth to the filling.

Utensils:

• 9×13 inch baking pan – This is the standard size for this recipe.
• Mixing bowls (at least two) – One for the shortbread and one for the filling.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are crucial for baking.
• Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer) – Makes mixing the shortbread much easier.
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon – For scraping down the sides of the bowls.
• Parchment paper – For easy removal of the bars from the pan.
• Cutting board and knife – For cutting the bars into squares.

Having all these ingredients and utensils readily available will streamline your baking process and ensure a successful outcome for your Rhubarb Shortbread Bars.

Detailed Steps for Making Rhubarb Shortbread Bars

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create these irresistible Rhubarb Shortbread Bars. Remember to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before you begin.

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This is crucial for a tender crust. **Don’t rush this step!**
2. Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. **Be careful not to overmix.** Overmixing will result in a tough crust.
3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to create an even layer.

Step 2: Prepare the Rhubarb Filling

1. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using). Gently toss to coat the rhubarb evenly.
2. Pour the rhubarb mixture over the prepared shortbread crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Rhubarb Shortbread Bars

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly and slightly thickened. **Keep a close eye on the bars** as ovens can vary.
2. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting. This allows the filling to set properly and prevents crumbling.

Step 4: Cut and Serve

1. Once completely cool, cut the Rhubarb Shortbread Bars into squares or rectangles. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
2. Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting for Rhubarb Shortbread Bars

Mastering the art of baking these Rhubarb Shortbread Bars involves understanding a few key tips and tricks. Here are some helpful hints to ensure perfect results every time.

Tips for Success:

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overmix the shortbread dough. Overmixing will make the crust tough.
• Let the bars cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
• If using frozen rhubarb, make sure it’s completely thawed and drained before adding it to the filling.

Variations:

• Add nuts: Toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds would add a delightful crunch to the shortbread crust.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like ginger, cardamom, or nutmeg in the rhubarb filling.
• Citrus zest: A little lemon or orange zest would brighten up the filling.
• Gluten-free version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
• Vegan version: Use vegan butter and a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water) to bind the shortbread.

Troubleshooting:

• Crumbly crust: If your crust is too crumbly, you may have not added enough liquid. Try adding a tablespoon or two of milk or cream next time.
• Soggy bottom: If your bottom is soggy, ensure that your rhubarb was well drained if frozen. You may also need to reduce the baking time slightly.
• Runny filling: If your filling is too runny, increase the amount of cornstarch.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits of Rhubarb Shortbread Bars

While these Rhubarb Shortbread Bars are undeniably indulgent, they offer some nutritional benefits, too. The exact nutritional values will depend on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate per serving (assuming the bars are cut into 12 pieces) could be:

• Calories: Approximately 250-300
• Protein: 2-3 grams
• Fat: 15-18 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams

The benefits primarily stem from the rhubarb. Rhubarb is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and can contribute to feelings of fullness. It also contains vitamin C, an antioxidant important for immune function. The small amount of cinnamon (if used) can also contribute to blood sugar regulation. Remember that moderation is key, and this should be considered a treat rather than a daily food. It’s important to note that these are estimated values and the actual nutritional content may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

FAQs about Rhubarb Shortbread Bars

Conclusion: Indulge in these Amazing Rhubarb Shortbread Bars!

These Rhubarb Shortbread Bars are more than just a recipe; they’re an experience. The perfect blend of tart and sweet, crumbly and gooey, these bars offer a delightful taste of spring. From the ease of preparation to the stunning presentation, this recipe is a winner for any occasion. We hope this comprehensive guide has empowered you to confidently create your own batch of these delicious treats. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us in the comments section below! And be sure to check out our other delicious recipes on RecipesLora for more baking inspiration! For even more sweet treats, check out our Pinterest board for inspiration: RecipesLora’s Sweet Treats on Pinterest. Happy baking!