Rhubarb Coffee Cake: 20 Min Prep Delight

Name: Rhubarb Coffee Cake: 20 Min Prep Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Cake:; 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend); 1.5 cups granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup sour cream (or dairy-free alternative); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups chopped fresh rhubarb; For the Streusel Topping:; 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend); 0.75 cup packed brown sugar; 0.5 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); 0.5 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

by Manar Jota

August 20, 2025

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Rhubarb coffee cake has a special place in my heart, bringing back memories of my mom’s kitchen filled with the sweet-tart aroma of baked goodness. This easy rhubarb coffee cake is a game-changer for weeknights or lazy weekend mornings. The tender, moist cake combined with the crunchy cinnamon streusel topping is pure bliss. I’ve perfected this homemade rhubarb coffee cake recipe over the years, ensuring it’s simple enough for anyone to make and delicious enough to become a family favorite. Get ready for a truly delightful dessert experience! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Rhubarb Coffee Cake

You’ll adore this simple yet delightful rhubarb coffee cake for so many reasons! It’s a flavor explosion, perfectly balancing the tartness of rhubarb with a sweet, buttery cake and a crunchy cinnamon streusel. This rhubarb crumb coffee cake comes together quickly, with just 20 minutes of prep, making it ideal for busy days.

Incredible taste: Sweet and tart rhubarb meets a tender cake and crunchy topping.
Quick prep: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for a last-minute treat.
Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will devour this delicious dessert.
Budget-friendly: Uses common pantry staples and seasonal rhubarb.
Versatile: Wonderful for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Satisfying texture: The delightful contrast in this rhubarb crumb coffee cake is irresistible.
Aromatic baking: Your kitchen will smell amazing while it bakes.

Rhubarb Coffee Cake Ingredients

Gathering the right rhubarb coffee cake ingredients is the first step to baking this delightful dessert. For the cake itself, you’ll need 2 cups all-purpose flour (or your favorite gluten-free blend), 1.5 cups granulated sugar for sweetness, and leaveners like 1 teaspoon baking powder and 0.5 teaspoon baking soda. Don’t forget 0.5 teaspoon salt to enhance flavors and 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon for warmth. The richness comes from 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened, 2 large eggs (room temperature is best for emulsification), 1 cup sour cream (or a dairy-free alternative for a vegan option), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for that classic aroma. The star, of course, is 2 cups chopped fresh rhubarb, which provides that signature tartness.

For the irresistible streusel topping, you’ll need 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend), 0.75 cup packed brown sugar for a caramel note, and another 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. If you like a little crunch, add 0.5 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional). Finally, 0.5 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed, is key for creating that perfect crumbly texture.

How to Make Rhubarb Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to get the oven to the correct temperature for even baking. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan so your delicious rhubarb coffee cake doesn’t stick.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients for the cake: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1.5 cups granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 0.5 teaspoon baking soda, 0.5 teaspoon salt, and 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon. This ensures all the leaveners and spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add the 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened, to the dry ingredients. Mix with a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This creates a lovely texture in the cake base.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: 2 large eggs, 1 cup sour cream (or dairy-free alternative), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the rhubarb coffee cake batter; overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
Step 6: Gently fold in the 2 cups chopped fresh rhubarb. You want to distribute the rhubarb evenly throughout the batter without breaking it down too much.
Step 7: Pour the prepared rhubarb coffee cake batter into the greased and floured baking pan. Spread it evenly.
Step 8: Prepare the streusel topping. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 0.75 cup packed brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
Step 9: Cut in the 0.5 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed, using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Stir in the 0.5 cup chopped pecans or walnuts if you’re using them. This step is crucial for achieving that signature crunchy topping.
Step 10: Evenly sprinkle the prepared streusel topping over the cake batter. Make sure to cover the entire surface for maximum crunch.
Step 11: Bake for 35-45 minutes. The exact time will depend on your oven. You’ll know it’s ready when a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
Step 12: Once baked, let the rhubarb coffee cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows it to set slightly. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Following these rhubarb coffee cake baking instructions ensures a perfect result every time.

Rhubarb Coffee Cake: 20 Min Prep Delight - Rhubarb Coffee Cake - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Rhubarb Coffee Cake

Achieving that perfect slice of rhubarb coffee cake is all about a few key techniques. I’ve learned these tips through trial and error, and they make all the difference in creating a truly memorable dessert. These simple tricks will help elevate your homemade rhubarb coffee cake from good to absolutely amazing.

Make sure your rhubarb is chopped into roughly uniform, bite-sized pieces. This ensures it bakes evenly throughout the batter.
Don’t overmix the cake batter once the wet ingredients are added to the dry. Overmixing develops the gluten too much, which can lead to a tougher cake.
For an extra moist rhubarb coffee cake, ensure your sour cream (or dairy-free alternative) is at room temperature before mixing it in.
Chill your butter for the streusel topping. Cold butter is essential for creating those delicious, crumbly bits that make this rhubarb streusel coffee cake so special.

What’s the secret to perfect Rhubarb Coffee Cake?

The secret to a perfect, moist rhubarb coffee cake lies in the balance of ingredients and careful mixing. Using sour cream in the batter adds moisture and tenderness. Also, don’t overmix the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients; stop as soon as it’s just combined to keep the cake tender.

Can I make Rhubarb Coffee Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare this rhubarb coffee cake ahead of time! You can mix the batter and prepare the streusel topping up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, covered tightly. When you’re ready to bake, assemble and bake as usual, potentially adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Rhubarb Coffee Cake?

A common pitfall is overmixing the batter, which results in a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Another mistake is using rhubarb that’s too watery; if your rhubarb seems particularly moist, you can toss it with a tablespoon of flour before adding it to the batter to absorb excess moisture.

Best Ways to Serve Rhubarb Coffee Cake

This delightful rhubarb coffee cake is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. For a wonderful rhubarb coffee cake for brunch, serve it alongside fresh fruit salad, yogurt, or a light quiche. Its sweet-tart flavor profile also pairs beautifully with a simple cup of coffee or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra special treat, try a drizzle of cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s truly a dessert that shines on its own or as part of a larger spread! Check out more delicious recipes.

Nutrition Facts for Rhubarb Coffee Cake

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown for one slice of this delicious rhubarb coffee cake. Knowing these details can help you fit this dessert into your daily eating plan.

Calories: 350
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 250mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if you make rhubarb coffee cake variations.

How to Store and Reheat Rhubarb Coffee Cake

Proper storage ensures your delicious rhubarb coffee cake dessert stays fresh and flavorful. First, allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack. This is crucial to prevent condensation, which can make the cake soggy. Once cooled, you can store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. If you have a lot of this amazing rhubarb coffee cake left, or if your kitchen is warm, the refrigerator is a good option too, though it might slightly dry out the cake.

For longer storage, freezing is an excellent choice. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil or a freezer-safe bag. This protects it from freezer burn. Your homemade rhubarb coffee cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, you can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For a warm treat, reheat individual slices in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. This makes reheating a breeze!

Rhubarb Coffee Cake: 20 Min Prep Delight - Rhubarb Coffee Cake - additional detail

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhubarb Coffee Cake

What is rhubarb coffee cake?

A rhubarb coffee cake is a delightful baked dessert characterized by a moist, tender cake base studded with tart rhubarb pieces, topped with a sweet, crunchy streusel. It’s often enjoyed with a cup of coffee, hence the name, and is a popular choice for breakfast, brunch, or a simple afternoon treat. This easy rhubarb coffee cake offers a wonderful balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

Why is rhubarb coffee cake popular?

This dessert’s popularity stems from its unique flavor profile – the tartness of rhubarb perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake and streusel, creating a wonderfully balanced taste. It’s also incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic option for rhubarb coffee cake for brunch or as a comforting dessert. The satisfying texture, especially in a rhubarb crumb coffee cake, and the beautiful presentation also contribute to its widespread appeal as a homemade rhubarb coffee cake.

Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen rhubarb for your rhubarb coffee cake! Make sure to thaw it completely and drain off any excess liquid before adding it to the batter. This helps prevent the cake from becoming too wet. You might need to add a tablespoon or two of extra flour to the batter if using frozen rhubarb, ensuring you still get that perfect rhubarb coffee cake batter consistency.

What are some rhubarb coffee cake variations?

There are many delicious rhubarb coffee cake variations! You can add a hint of ginger or cardamom to the batter for extra spice, or swap the streusel nuts for almonds or even oats. A cream cheese swirl baked into the batter adds a lovely richness. For a different topping, consider a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and a bit of lemon juice. These variations ensure your next homemade rhubarb coffee cake is always exciting! For other dessert ideas, check out our ground beef zucchini casserole.

Rhubarb Coffee Cake Variations You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic rhubarb coffee cake, there are so many fun ways to switch things up! These rhubarb coffee cake variations are perfect for keeping things exciting and catering to different tastes or dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your next homemade creation!

Gluten-Free Delight: Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend in both the cake and the streusel. You might find that a touch more liquid or a binder like xanthan gum is needed, so check your favorite GF flour blend’s recommendations.
Vegan Indulgence: Transform this into a vegan rhubarb coffee cake by using a plant-based butter substitute (like a good quality vegan butter stick) and a dairy-free sour cream alternative (coconut or soy yogurt works wonderfully). Ensure your sugar is vegan-certified if that’s a concern.
Spiced Up Streusel: Elevate your rhubarb streusel coffee cake by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the streusel topping mixture along with the cinnamon. This adds a warm, complex flavor that pairs beautifully with the tart rhubarb.
Lemon Zest Boost: For a brighter flavor profile, add the zest of one lemon to the cake batter. This citrusy note cuts through the sweetness and enhances the natural tartness of the rhubarb, making for a truly refreshing rhubarb coffee cake.