Homemade Lemon Rhubarb Bars

Why Make This Recipe

Homemade Lemon Rhubarb Bars are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the bright flavor of lemon. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. The sweet and tangy filling sits on a buttery crust, making it a pleasing dessert for any occasion. Plus, it’s a great way to use fresh rhubarb when it’s in season!

How to Make Homemade Lemon Rhubarb Bars

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup rhubarb (chopped)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix 1 cup flour, powdered sugar, softened butter, and salt until crumbly. Press into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. In another bowl, combine chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, 1/4 cup flour, and baking powder. Pour this mixture over the crust.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes until set and lightly golden.
5. Let cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

How to Serve Homemade Lemon Rhubarb Bars

Serve these bars chilled or at room temperature. They are perfect on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream for added sweetness. You can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the dessert experience.

How to Store Homemade Lemon Rhubarb Bars

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars; just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

Tips to Make Homemade Lemon Rhubarb Bars

• Ensure your butter is softened for easier mixing.
• If you like a sweeter filling, you can add an extra tablespoon of sugar.
• For a bit of crunch, you can sprinkle some crushed nuts on top before baking.

Variation

You can make these bars with other fruits like strawberries or peaches if rhubarb is not available. Just adjust the sugar level according to the sweetness of the fruit you choose.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen rhubarb?
Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb. Just thaw it and drain excess moisture before adding it to your filling mixture.

2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of the bars.

3. How can I tell when the bars are baked?
The bars are done when the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Homemade Lemon Rhubarb Bars

Delightful bars combining tart rhubarb and bright lemon flavors on a buttery crust, perfect for gatherings or home enjoyment.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 9 bars

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the crust

• 1 cup all-purpose flour For crust
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar For crust
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) Ensure it's softened for easier mixing
• 1/4 teaspoon salt For crust

For the filling

• 1 cup rhubarb (chopped) Fresh or frozen, thawed and drained
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar Adjust for desired sweetness
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• to taste powdered sugar for dusting Optional for serving

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix 1 cup flour, powdered sugar, softened butter, and salt until crumbly. Press into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Making the Filling

1. In another bowl, combine chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, 1/4 cup flour, and baking powder. Pour this mixture over the crust.

Baking

1. Bake for 25-30 minutes until set and lightly golden.
2. Let cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Serve these bars chilled or at room temperature, ideally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.