why make this recipe
Rhubarb Custard Bars are tasty and bright. They use simple pantry items and fresh rhubarb. The bars are sweet and a little tart. They make a great snack, dessert, or potluck treat. They are easy to bake and share.
introduction
This recipe makes a crisp crust topped with soft custard and pieces of rhubarb. For a similar version, see an easy rhubarb bars recipe.
how to make Rhubarb Custard Bars
- Preheat the oven and get a 9×9 inch pan ready. Grease the pan so the bars do not stick.
- Make the crust by mixing flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the butter until crumbs form. Press the crumbs firmly into the bottom of the pan.
- Mix chopped rhubarb with granulated sugar. Spread the sweetened rhubarb over the crust in an even layer.
- Whisk eggs, milk, vanilla, cornstarch, and salt in a bowl until smooth. Pour this custard mix over the rhubarb so it covers the fruit.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30–35 minutes. The filling should set and the top turn lightly golden.
- Let the pan cool before slicing. Chill or leave at room temperature before serving.
Ingredients :
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup rhubarb, chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix together flour and powdered sugar. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
- In another bowl, combine chopped rhubarb and granulated sugar. Spread it over the crust.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cornstarch, and salt. Pour the mixture evenly over the rhubarb.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and lightly golden.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
how to serve Rhubarb Custard Bars
Cut bars into squares. Serve them chilled for a firmer custard. Serve at room temperature for a softer texture. Add a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream if you like.
how to store Rhubarb Custard Bars
Store bars in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can freeze slices for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
tips to make Rhubarb Custard Bars
- Use fresh or thawed rhubarb. Cut it into small pieces for even baking.
- Press the crust firmly so it holds together when you cut the bars.
- Whisk the custard well to avoid lumps from the cornstarch.
- Check the center for doneness; it should be set, not jiggly.
- Cool fully before slicing to get clean pieces.
variation (if any)
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for warm spice.
- Mix some berries with the rhubarb for a berry-rhubarb version.
- Use half-and-half instead of milk for a richer custard.
- Top with streusel before baking for a crunchy finish.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen rhubarb?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain extra liquid before mixing with sugar.
Q: Can I make this in a different pan size?
A: Yes, but baking time may change. Use a similar depth pan and watch the bake time.
Q: How do I know when the bars are done?
A: The filling should be set and slightly golden on top. It should not jiggle in the center.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar if my rhubarb is very tart?
A: You can lower the baking sugar a bit, but the rhubarb may taste sour. Taste and adjust before baking.
Q: Can I bake these ahead for a party?
A: Yes. Bake and cool, then refrigerate. Serve chilled or bring to room temp before serving.
Rhubarb Custard Bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Rhubarb Custard Bars with a crisp crust, sweet custard, and tart rhubarb topping, perfect for snacks or desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup rhubarb, chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- Mix together flour and powdered sugar in a bowl.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
- Combine chopped rhubarb and granulated sugar in another bowl and spread it over the crust.
- Whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cornstarch, and salt in a separate mixing bowl.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the rhubarb.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and lightly golden.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg