Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble Bars Recipe

Are you looking for a dessert that perfectly balances tangy and sweet flavors? The challenge of finding a springtime treat that combines fresh, seasonal ingredients with a satisfying texture can be daunting.

The struggle of finding the right recipe that delivers both taste and simplicity can often leave you feeling overwhelmed. Many desserts require complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, making them less accessible.

Our Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble Bars provide a straightforward solution to this problem. With a blend of tart rhubarb, sweet strawberries, and a buttery crumble topping, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for novice bakers looking to enjoy a delicious, homemade treat.

Ingredients

For the Crumble Topping

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• ½ cup light brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup crumbled macaroons (store-bought)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup melted salted butter

For the Fruit Filling

• 2 cups fresh rhubarb, diced
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon or orange juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or all-purpose flour as a substitute)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crumble Topping

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and baking soda.
2. Stir in the crumbled macaroons for a touch of coconut flavor.
3. Add the vanilla extract and melted butter. Combine everything until the mixture forms a slightly sticky crumble.

2. Prepare the Fruit Filling

1. Begin by washing and dicing the rhubarb into pieces about ¼ inch in size. Be sure to discard any leaves, as they are not edible.
2. Slice the strawberries into thin pieces.
3. In another bowl, mix the rhubarb and strawberries with granulated sugar and your choice of lemon or orange juice.
4. Add cornstarch to thicken the filling as it bakes. Stir until everything is well combined.

3. Assemble the Bars

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Press half of the crumble mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
3. Spread the fruit mixture over the crumble layer.
4. Top with the remaining crumble mixture, gently pressing it down to create a cohesive layer.

4. Bake the Bars

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil halfway through the baking time.
2. Allow the bars to cool completely in the dish before cutting. This step helps the bars set properly and makes slicing easier.

Serving Suggestions

These crumble bars are delicious on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For the best results, let them cool fully before cutting. If you can’t wait, don’t worry—warm bars are a treat too!

Conclusion

Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble Bars are a quintessential springtime treat, offering a delightful balance of tart rhubarb and sweet strawberries, all nestled under a buttery, crumbly topping. This recipe is not only simple to follow but also adaptable, making it a great choice for novice bakers looking to impress family and friends. The addition of crumbled macaroons introduces a subtle hint of coconut, enhancing the flavor and texture of these bars.

Whether served as a cozy dessert or a delicious snack, these bars bring the essence of spring to your table. Their rich, comforting taste and appealing texture make them a versatile addition to any meal. Try this recipe to savor the season’s fresh produce and enjoy a homemade treat that’s sure to be a favorite.