Rhubarb Bars Cream Cheese has always been my go-to spring treat, ever since I helped my aunt bake them for the first time. The smell of the buttery oat crust baking, mixed with the sweet, slightly tart rhubarb filling, is pure magic. Seeing that vibrant pink layer topped with smooth, creamy frosting always makes me so happy! These easy rhubarb cream cheese bars are so simple to whip up, and they always disappear fast at potlucks. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars
- The perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors in every bite.
- Incredibly easy to prepare, with a prep time of just 20 minutes.
- A delightful treat that’s budget-friendly, especially when rhubarb is in season.
- The creamy, dreamy rhubarb bars with cream cheese filling are a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
- A vibrant, beautiful dessert perfect for spring gatherings and holidays.
- You’ll adore the rich, buttery oat crust that complements the fruity filling.
- These rhubarb bars with cream cheese filling are sure to become a family favorite.
- A satisfying dessert that feels special but is surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients for Homemade Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to making your own cream cheese rhubarb bar recipe. The crust starts with 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened, which gives it that wonderful buttery richness. You’ll also need 1 cup packed light brown sugar for sweetness and a lovely caramel note. For the dry ingredients in the crust, grab 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda for lift, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to balance the flavors. The star of the show, the filling, requires 4 cups chopped fresh rhubarb (about 1 pound), which provides that signature sweet and tart kick. To thicken the filling, you’ll need 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1/4 cup cornstarch, and 1/4 cup water. A splash of 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances the fruitiness. Finally, for that luscious topping, you’ll need 8 ounces cream cheese, softened, 1/2 cup powdered sugar for sweetness, and another 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
How to Make Easy Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get a 9×13 inch baking pan ready by greasing and flouring it. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates the base for your buttery crust.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix will be added to the butter mixture.
- Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until just combined to form the crust dough. You want it to come together without overmixing for tender bars.
- Step 5: Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. This forms the base crust for your delicious bars.
- Step 6: Now, let’s make the rhubarb filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped fresh rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water.
- Step 7: Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. You’ll notice it starting to thicken as the rhubarb becomes tender, usually taking about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that lovely aroma.
- Step 8: Pour the thickened rhubarb filling evenly over the crust in the baking pan. Spread it out so you have a nice layer of fruit.
- Step 9: Crumble the remaining one-third of the dough over the rhubarb filling. This topping adds a delightful texture, making them almost like chewy rhubarb cream cheese bars.
- Step 10: Bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on them – you’re looking for the crust to be golden brown and the filling to be bubbly. This ensures the bars are cooked through and the topping is getting delightfully crispy.
- Step 11: While the bars are baking, prepare the cream cheese topping. Beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and another 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy.
- Step 12: Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan. This is crucial before adding the topping so it doesn’t melt away. Then, spread the prepared cream cheese topping evenly over the cooled bars. For the best texture, consider these some of the best rhubarb cream cheese bars after chilling.
- Step 13: Cut into bars and serve! These easy rhubarb cream cheese bars are best enjoyed chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Pro Tips for the Best Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make these bars absolutely perfect. Follow these tips to ensure delicious results every time!
- Using room temperature butter and cream cheese is key for a smooth, well-combined crust and topping.
- Don’t skip cooling the bars completely before adding the cream cheese topping; a warm pan will make it melt and spread too thin.
- For a truly chewy texture, try slightly underbaking them – just until the edges are set and the center is still a little soft.
- If your rhubarb is very tart, you might need to increase the granulated sugar in the filling slightly or add a touch more vanilla.
What’s the secret to perfect Rhubarb bars with cream cheese filling?
The magic lies in the balance! A well-made crust provides a buttery foundation, while the filling needs just the right amount of cornstarch to thicken beautifully. Achieving that sweet and tangy rhubarb bars cream cheese flavor means not overcooking the rhubarb. For more baking tips, check out these baking tips.
Can I make Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the crust and filling a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the day you plan to serve them for the freshest taste, or bake them and store the un-topped bars overnight.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars?
A common pitfall is overmixing the crust dough, which can make it tough. Also, be sure to let the bars cool completely before adding the cream cheese topping to prevent it from becoming soupy. Lastly, don’t use frozen rhubarb unless it’s specifically called for, as it can release too much liquid. For more information on rhubarb, you can refer to this rhubarb growing guide.
Best Ways to Serve Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars
These delightful rhubarb dessert bars cream cheese creations are wonderfully versatile. For a classic treat, serve them chilled, straight from the refrigerator, perhaps with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. They also pair beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or a refreshing glass of iced tea, making them perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. You could even serve a smaller portion alongside a light fruit salad for a more elaborate dessert spread. If you enjoy fruit-based desserts, you might also like our Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry.
Nutrition Facts for Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for these delightful rhubarb bars:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 100mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
How to Store and Reheat Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars
Once your delicious rhubarb cream cheese bars have cooled completely, it’s time to think about storing them. For the best results, especially if you’ve made a big batch, store them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh and prevents them from drying out. You can keep these bars in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They actually taste even better when chilled, as the flavors meld together nicely. If you want to save some for later, these bars freeze incredibly well. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and you can freeze them for up to 3 months. This makes them a fantastic make-ahead option, perfect for when you need a quick dessert. For reheating, simply let frozen bars thaw overnight in the fridge. If they seem a bit dry after thawing, a quick 10-15 second zap in the microwave can revive them, making them taste just like they were baked fresh, embodying the spirit of a rhubarb bar recipe simple cream cheese for easy enjoyment later. For other simple recipes, check out our Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars
What makes these Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars so special?
These bars are special because they perfectly balance the tartness of rhubarb with a sweet, creamy cream cheese topping and a buttery oat crust. The combination of textures and flavors makes them a truly delightful spring dessert that’s incredibly satisfying.
How do I make rhubarb cream cheese bars if I don’t have fresh rhubarb?
If fresh rhubarb isn’t available, you can use frozen rhubarb. Make sure to thaw it completely and drain off any excess liquid before using it in the filling. The amount of cornstarch might need a slight adjustment if the thawed rhubarb seems particularly watery, but generally, the recipe holds up well.
Can I make Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars vegan or gluten-free?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe! For a vegan version, use vegan butter and cream cheese substitutes, and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly. For gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free baking blend. The texture might vary slightly, but the delicious flavor will still shine through.
What are the best tips for how to make rhubarb cream cheese bars that are perfectly chewy?
To achieve a chewy texture, try slightly underbaking the bars. Keep an eye on them; when the edges are golden and the center is still just set (not liquidy), they’re likely to be chewier once cooled. Also, using brown sugar in the crust contributes to a chewier result. For more dessert inspiration, explore our Indian Butter Chicken Recipe.
Variations of Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars You Can Try
Want to mix things up? These rhubarb crumble bars cream cheese are already fantastic, but here are a few ways to put your own spin on them. For a gluten-free treat, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free baking blend. You might find the texture is slightly different, but the flavor remains divine. If you love a bit of spice, add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or ginger to the crust mixture for extra warmth. For a different flavor profile, consider adding a handful of fresh blueberries or raspberries to the rhubarb filling – they pair beautifully with the tartness! These variations make our already amazing dessert bars even more exciting. You might also enjoy our Coconut Chicken Meatballs.
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Rhubarb Bars Cream Cheese: 24 Hour Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy these sweet and tangy Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars, featuring a buttery oat crust, a vibrant rhubarb filling, and a rich cream cheese topping. A perfect spring dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups chopped fresh rhubarb (about 1 pound)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and light brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined to form the crust.
- Press two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the rhubarb is tender and the mixture has thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Pour the rhubarb filling evenly over the crust in the baking pan.
- Crumble the remaining one-third of the dough over the rhubarb filling.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- While the bars are baking, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy for the cream cheese topping.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before spreading the cream cheese topping evenly over the top.
- Cut into bars and serve. These Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars are best enjoyed chilled.
Notes
- For chewier bars, reduce baking time slightly.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the crust for extra warmth.
- A squeeze of lemon juice in the rhubarb filling can enhance the tanginess.
- Ensure rhubarb is fully cooled before spreading the cream cheese topping.
- These Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert Bars
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
