Are you on the lookout for a delightful treat that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the wholesome goodness of oats? Look no further! These Delicious Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars are a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making them an ideal dessert or snack. With a buttery oatmeal crust and a juicy rhubarb filling, these bars are sure to impress friends and family alike. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Ingredients List
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped (or frozen, if in season)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting
Substitutions: For a gluten-free version, you can use gluten-free rolled oats and flour. If you prefer a less sweet bar, reduce the amount of sugar to taste.
Timing
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Bake Time: 35-40 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
This recipe comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy homemade bars in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Oatmeal Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well mixed. Then, add the melted butter and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Reserve about 1 cup of this mixture for the topping.
Step 3: Make the Rhubarb Filling
In another bowl, combine chopped rhubarb, cornstarch, and remaining granulated sugar. Toss to coat the rhubarb evenly with the mixture. This will help thicken the filling as it bakes.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Press the remaining oatmeal mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Spread the rhubarb filling evenly over the crust, then sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top.
Step 5: Bake
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the rhubarb is bubbly. Allow the bars to cool in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Serve
Once cool, cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve as a dessert, snack, or a delightful addition to your brunch table!
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx. 12 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fats | 8g |
| Sugars | 10g |
These bars provide a wholesome treat with fiber from the oats and rhubarb, making them a tasty and nutritious option!
Healthy Variations & Substitutes
- Fruit Variations: Swap out rhubarb for other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches for different flavor profiles.
- Low-Sugar Version: Use a sugar substitute for the filling, and consider reducing the sugar in the crust as well.
- Nuts & Seeds: Add chopped nuts or seeds to the oatmeal crust for extra crunch and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
These Delicious Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars are perfect on their own or served with:
- A dollop of whipped cream or yogurt for added creaminess.
- Fresh berries to complement the tartness of the rhubarb.
- Coffee or tea for a lovely afternoon treat.
They also make a great dessert to take to potlucks or family gatherings!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Old Rhubarb: Fresh, vibrant rhubarb will provide the best flavor. Avoid using wilted or old stalks.
- Not Pressing the Crust: Make sure to press the crust firmly into the pan to create a stable base for your bars.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the bars towards the end of baking to avoid dryness; they should be golden brown and not overly hard.
Storage & Prep Tips
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Conclusion
These Delicious Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars are not only easy to make but are also a wonderful way to enjoy the unique flavor of rhubarb. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a nutritious snack, these bars will not disappoint. Try making a batch today, and savor the delightful combination of flavors and textures!
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FAQs
1. Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?
Yes! Frozen rhubarb works well in this recipe; just ensure to thaw and drain any excess water before using.
2. How can I make these bars more filling?
Add a layer of yogurt or cottage cheese as a topping for extra protein and creaminess.
3. Can I make these bars vegan?
You can substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use a flax egg instead of an egg if your recipe calls for it.
4. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
They should be golden brown on top, and the filling should be bubbly. A toothpick inserted into the edges should come out clean.
5. What can I use instead of cornstarch?
You can use tapioca starch or arrowroot starch as alternatives to thicken the rhubarb filling.