Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars

Moist and chewy, Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars are a delightful treat filled with tart rhubarb and sweet strawberry jam. Perfect for any occasion, these bars offer a unique blend of flavors that will please your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to share at a potluck or a sweet snack to enjoy with your afternoon tea, these oatmeal bars won’t disappoint. Their chewy texture and fruity filling make them an irresistible choice that stands out from the usual desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients, these bars come together quickly, making them ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Flavor – The combination of tart rhubarb and sweet strawberry jam creates a perfect balance that everyone will love.
• Great for Sharing – Cut into squares, they are easy to serve at gatherings, picnics, or family events.
• Healthy Twist – Packed with oats and fruit, they offer a nutritious option without sacrificing flavor.
• Make Ahead – They can be baked in advance and stored, making them perfect for busy weeks.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars, having the right tools on hand will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• 8×8 baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor – This tool helps quickly combine ingredients for the crust, ensuring even mixing without much effort.
• 8×8 baking dish – The perfect size for making these bars, it ensures even baking for a soft texture throughout.
• Pastry cutter – Using this tool allows you to achieve the right crumbly texture for the topping with ease.

Ingredients

Moist and chewy oatmeal bars filled with tart rhubarb and sweet strawberry jam.

For the Crust/Topping

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar (lightly packed)
• 1 tsp coarse Kosher salt (if using table salt, use half the amount)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter (diced)

For the Filling

• 12 oz rhubarb (diced into 1/4 – 1/2 inch cubes; about 2 1/2 cups diced)
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1/2 cup strawberry jam or preserves
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray an 8×8 baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In your food processor or using a pastry cutter:
– Combine the crust/topping ingredients until pea-sized pieces of butter remain.
– Reserve 1 ½ cups of this mixture for the topping (chill in the refrigerator until needed).
– Press the remaining mixture firmly against the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
– Bake crust for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the crust bakes:
– In a bowl, toss the diced rhubarb with baking soda, granulated sugar, and flour until all pieces are coated.
– Stir in strawberry jam, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Once the crust is done:
– Spread the rhubarb mixture evenly over the hot crust.
– Bake for another 30 minutes until bubbly.

Step 5: Add Topping

After baking:
– Sprinkle the reserved crust mixture over the rhubarb filling.
– Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 6: Cool Before Serving

Allow cooling on the counter for at least two hours so they can set properly before slicing into squares. Enjoy your Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars!

How to Serve Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars

Rhubarb oatmeal bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or indulging in a cozy night at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Cream

• Serve the bars with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness and a touch of sweetness.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair each bar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This combination creates a delicious contrast between warm and cold.

Drizzled with Honey

• Drizzle honey over the bars just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Accompanied by Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries to complement the tartness of the rhubarb.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these bars with a cup of hot coffee or tea. The warmth enhances the flavors and makes for a comforting dessert.

Topped with Yogurt

• Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt on top for creaminess that balances the tangy rhubarb.

How to Perfect Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars

To achieve the best results with your rhubarb oatmeal bars, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Rhubarb: Fresh rhubarb provides better texture and flavor compared to frozen. Look for firm stalks with vibrant color.
• Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the tartness of your rhubarb, feel free to adjust the sugar in the filling to suit your taste.
• Chill Your Butter: Ensure your butter is cold when making the crust. This helps create a flakier texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix your ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully helps them set properly, making slicing easier and cleaner.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for best freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars

Rhubarb oatmeal bars pair well with several side dishes that complement their flavors beautifully. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and a burst of color to your dessert table.
2. Cheese Platter: Include a selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese which offer creamy contrasts to the bar’s texture.
3. Vanilla Pudding: Creamy vanilla pudding adds smoothness and pairs nicely with the tartness of rhubarb.
4. Nut Mix: A simple bowl of mixed nuts provides crunch and balances out sweetness.
5. Granola Parfait: Layer granola, yogurt, and fruit in glasses for an elegant presentation that complements the bars.
6. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip pieces of bar into melted chocolate for added indulgence.
7. Spiced Chai Latte: Serve warm spiced chai lattes alongside for a comforting drink option that enhances dessert enjoyment.
8. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate while providing a zesty contrast to sweet desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for the right texture. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure precision.
• Skipping the chilling step: If you don’t chill the crust ingredients before baking, your bars may not hold their shape. Always refrigerate the mixture until ready to use.
• Overbaking the bars: Overbaking can lead to dry, crumbly bars. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time and test for doneness with a toothpick.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into the bars too soon can result in messy squares. Allow them to cool for at least two hours before slicing.
• Using too much rhubarb: Too much rhubarb can make your bars soggy. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars

• Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes for best texture.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars?

Rhubarb oatmeal bars are dessert squares made with a base of oats and flour, filled with tart rhubarb and sweet jam. They create a delicious balance of flavors and textures.

How do I know when my Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars are done?

They are done when the topping is golden brown and set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Can I customize my Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars?

Yes! You can add nuts, seeds, or different fruits like blueberries or raspberries for variation. Experimenting with spices such as nutmeg or ginger can also enhance flavor.

Is it necessary to chill the crust mixture?

Yes, chilling helps solidify the butter in the crust, ensuring it maintains its structure during baking. This step is key for achieving chewy but firm bars.

Final Thoughts

These Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars offer a delightful combination of tartness from the rhubarb and sweetness from strawberry jam, making them perfect for any occasion. With simple customization options available, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Give them a try; they might just become your new favorite dessert!

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Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 9 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars, a perfect blend of tart rhubarb and sweet strawberry jam nestled between a chewy oatmeal crust. These bars offer not only a unique taste experience but also a wholesome treat that can be enjoyed any time of the day—whether it’s as an afternoon snack or a dessert at gatherings. Easy to make with simple ingredients, they are great for sharing and can be prepared in advance, making them a convenient choice for busy schedules. With their irresistible texture and fruity filling, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

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Ingredients

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• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 12 oz fresh rhubarb
• 1/2 cup strawberry jam
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8 baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. In a food processor, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, and cold butter until crumbly. Reserve 1 ½ cups mixture for topping.
3. Press remaining mixture into the bottom of the baking dish and bake for 20 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, mix diced rhubarb with baking soda, sugar, and flour in a bowl. Stir in jam and lemon juice.
5. Spread the rhubarb mixture over the baked crust and return to the oven for another 30 minutes or until bubbly.
6. Sprinkle reserved topping over the filling and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
7. Cool completely before slicing into squares.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 95mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 20mg