why make this recipe
Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful treat that balances the tartness of rhubarb with the creamy sweetness of cream cheese. This recipe is perfect for spring when rhubarb is in season. These bars make a great dessert for gatherings, potlucks, or just a sweet snack at home. They are easy to make and sure to impress anyone who tries them!
how to make Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup rhubarb, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar for topping
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and softened butter until crumbly. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- In another mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Then add the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until everything is well combined.
- Fold in the chopped rhubarb and pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust.
- Sprinkle the additional granulated sugar on top.
- Bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and lightly golden.
- Allow the bars to cool before cutting them into squares. Serve and enjoy!
how to serve Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars
These bars can be served warm or cold. They are perfect on their own, but you can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
how to store Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze these bars for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap them tightly before placing them in the freezer.
tips to make Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars
- Ensure that the cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
- If you want a sweeter filling, you can add a bit more sugar to the cream cheese mixture.
- For a fun twist, you can add some lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for added flavor.
variation (if any)
You can experiment with different fruits instead of rhubarb, such as strawberries or blueberries. Just be sure to chop them small enough to mix in well.
FAQs
-
Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the cream cheese mixture. -
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. -
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the center is set and lightly golden. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and softened butter until crumbly. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- In another mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until well combined.
- Fold in the chopped rhubarb and pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust.
- Sprinkle the additional granulated sugar on top.
- Bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and lightly golden.
- Allow the bars to cool before cutting them into squares. Serve and enjoy!