Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the wholesome goodness of oats. Perfect for using up frozen rhubarb and pantry staples, these bars are ideal for satisfying sweet cravings or packing into lunchboxes.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups oatmeal (quick-cooking or regular)
• 1 1/3 cups brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup butter, melted
• 4 cups chopped rhubarb (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water (optional, see note)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, oatmeal, brown sugar, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
3. Pour the melted butter into the dry ingredients and mix until crumbly.
4. Press half of this mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
5. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water (if using). Cook until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly, stirring frequently.
6. Spread the rhubarb filling evenly over the crust in the baking pan.
7. Sprinkle the remaining oatmeal mixture over the rhubarb layer, pressing it down lightly.
8. Bake for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
9. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Nutrients

Each serving of Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars contains approximately:

• Calories: 207 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g

The Versatility of Rhubarb

Rhubarb is often regarded as a vegetable, though it’s typically used in desserts due to its tartness and natural sweetness when cooked. This plant is a hardy perennial that thrives in cooler climates, often harvested in the spring when its stalks are firm and brightly colored. Despite its sour flavor when eaten raw, rhubarb is beloved in many recipes, particularly in pies, crumbles, and jams.

What makes rhubarb so appealing in desserts like Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars is its ability to balance the sweetness of sugar or other fruits. The tangy nature of rhubarb provides a refreshing contrast to the sugary filling and oatmeal topping, creating a delightful harmony in every bite. While rhubarb is often paired with strawberries in traditional recipes, it also pairs wonderfully with oats, offering a balance of textures and flavors.

Why Choose Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars?

The combination of oats and rhubarb in this recipe is perfect for those who love the wholesome, chewy texture of oatmeal but want to try something with a bit more sweetness and fruitiness. These bars are an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys dessert bars like brownies or blondies but is looking for something lighter and fruit-based. The recipe is simple and quick, making it an easy option for both beginner bakers and experienced chefs alike.

Another benefit of Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars is that they are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a dessert, a snack, or even as a breakfast option when you’re in the mood for something a little different. The bars are perfect for enjoying at home, but they’re also portable enough to be taken on the go, making them an excellent choice for picnics, parties, or school lunches. If you’re looking to impress guests with a homemade treat or need to bring something to a potluck or gathering, these bars are sure to stand out.

The Benefits of Using Oats in This Recipe

Oats are a fantastic addition to many recipes due to their numerous health benefits. They are packed with fiber, which is great for digestion and heart health, and they provide long-lasting energy, making them an excellent option for a snack or breakfast. In Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars, the oats not only contribute to the flavor but also provide a satisfying, chewy texture that complements the rhubarb filling. Oats are also known for being rich in antioxidants, which help to reduce inflammation and protect against diseases.

One of the most notable health benefits of oats is their ability to help regulate blood sugar levels. Oats have a low glycemic index, meaning they are digested slowly and can help maintain steady energy levels throughout the day. This makes them a great choice for those looking to manage their weight, as the fiber in oats also helps keep you feeling full for longer periods.

By incorporating oats into this dessert, you’re not only adding a delightful texture but also creating a more balanced and nutritious treat. Rhubarb, with its own nutritional profile, further enhances the health benefits of this recipe, making Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars a dessert that feels a little less indulgent and a bit more wholesome.

Perfect for Seasonal Baking

Rhubarb is a seasonal ingredient, typically harvested in the spring and early summer. While this makes it a delicious seasonal treat, it doesn’t mean that you can only enjoy Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars during the months when fresh rhubarb is in season. Frozen rhubarb is a great alternative and can be used to make these bars year-round. Frozen rhubarb retains much of its flavor and texture, making it just as suitable for baking as fresh rhubarb.

For those who enjoy baking with seasonal ingredients, rhubarb offers a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the arrival of spring. Its vibrant color and unique tartness make it a standout in baked goods, and it pairs perfectly with other fresh spring ingredients like strawberries or raspberries. Using rhubarb in recipes like oatmeal bars allows you to take advantage of the season’s bounty while creating a delicious, comforting treat that can be enjoyed by all.

Customizing the Recipe

One of the best things about Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars is that they can easily be customized to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. While the traditional recipe calls for butter and sugar, there are several ways to adapt it to fit specific dietary needs. For those looking for a dairy-free or vegan version, you can substitute the butter with plant-based margarine or coconut oil, and replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture for binding. Additionally, to make the recipe healthier or lower in sugar, you can opt for a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar.

You can also experiment with adding other ingredients to the bars. For example, nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans could add an extra crunch and depth of flavor. For those who prefer a sweeter version, you could fold in some dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, or even chopped dates. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a touch of warmth and spice to the bars, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Another way to customize the recipe is by incorporating different fruit fillings. While rhubarb is the star of this dessert, you could add other fruits to create a mixed fruit filling, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. These fruits not only bring their own sweetness but also complement the tangy flavor of rhubarb, creating a rich and flavorful dessert that suits a variety of palates.

Storing and Serving Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars

Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars are easy to store and serve, making them an excellent option for meal prep or batch cooking. After baking, let the bars cool completely before slicing them into squares. You can store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’d like to keep them fresh for a longer period, they can also be frozen. Simply wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

When serving, Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars are perfect on their own, but they can also be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of custard sauce for an extra indulgent treat. They are also great with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect afternoon snack or light dessert.

Conclusion

Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars are an incredibly versatile and delicious dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the comforting texture of oats. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the unique flavor of rhubarb in a simple and easy-to-make treat. Whether you’re looking to use up fresh or frozen rhubarb, these bars are a fantastic way to incorporate this seasonal ingredient into your baking routine.