Introduction
Have you ever had something sweet and just a little tangy at the same time? That’s what makes Strawberry Rhubarb Bars so special! These bars are a perfect treat when you want something fruity, soft, and just a little crumbly.
Whether you’re baking for a family picnic, a weekend snack, or just because you’re craving something yummy, these bars are easy to make and super satisfying. Let’s dive into how you can make these delicious Strawberry Rhubarb Bars at home.
Ingredients – Strawberry Rhubarb Bars
Here’s everything you’ll need for the crust and filling:
For the crust and topping:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the strawberry rhubarb filling:
- 2 cups chopped rhubarb (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups chopped strawberries (fresh is best)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Step-by-Step Process – Strawberry Rhubarb Bars
Let’s break it down into simple steps. You can even ask a grown-up to help if you’re new to baking.
Step 1: Preheat your oven
Start by turning on your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s warm and ready.
Step 2: Prepare your baking pan
Take a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. This helps you lift the bars out easily after baking.
Step 3: Make the crust and topping
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until it looks fluffy and smooth.
Then, add the vanilla extract, salt, and flour. Stir until it becomes crumbly – like wet sand. - Set aside 1 cup of this crumbly mix to use as the topping later. Press the rest into the bottom of the baking pan to form the crust. Make it flat and even.
Step 4: Bake the crust
Bake the crust for about 15 minutes until it looks slightly golden. While that’s baking, let’s make the fruity filling.
Step 5: Make the strawberry rhubarb filling
In another bowl, mix the chopped rhubarb and strawberries. Add sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir until everything is coated well.
Step 6: Add the filling
Once the crust is done, carefully spread the fruit mixture over it. Make sure the fruit is spread evenly.
Step 7: Add the topping
Take the 1 cup of crumbly dough you saved and sprinkle it all over the fruit layer. Try to cover as much of the fruit as you can.
Step 8: Bake again
Put the whole pan back in the oven and bake for about 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the fruit is bubbling.
Step 9: Cool and cut into bars
Let it cool completely before cutting. This helps the bars stay firm and not fall apart. Once they’re cool, cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per bar |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220–250 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Sugar | 18g |
| Fiber | 1.5g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Sodium | 90mg |
| Vitamin C | 8% of daily value |
| Calcium | 2% of daily value |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is rhubarb?
Rhubarb is a vegetable that looks like red celery but tastes very sour. It’s often used in desserts with sugar and sweet fruits like strawberries.
Q2. Can I use frozen fruit?
Yes! You can use frozen strawberries and rhubarb. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well so the bars don’t get soggy.
Q3. Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely. You can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour. Just make sure it’s made for baking and has xanthan gum if needed.
Q4. How should I store the bars?
You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, put them in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze them for a few weeks.
Q5. Can I add other fruits?
Yes! You can mix in raspberries or blueberries for extra flavor. But don’t remove the rhubarb—it’s what gives these bars their special tart taste.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Rhubarb Bars are the kind of treat that feels both homemade and fancy at the same time. They’re soft, sweet, slightly tangy, and topped with a buttery crumble that melts in your mouth. The balance between strawberry sweetness and rhubarb tartness is truly amazing.
Plus, they’re really fun to make. You don’t need to be a baking expert or have fancy tools. If you can stir, spread, and sprinkle, you can make these bars!
Next time you see rhubarb at the store or your garden, grab some and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds (and everyone you share them with) will thank you. Happy baking!
