This Sweet Rhubarb Bread is a delightful quick bread that perfectly balances the tartness of rhubarb with a sweet, moist base. Ideal for breakfast or as a snack, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal rhubarb.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups chopped rhubarb
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or spray it with baking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup sugar, milk, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Add flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
4. Incorporate Rhubarb: Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar over the surface for a sweet, crisp crust.
6. Bake: Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Facts

The nutritional content for one serving (assuming 10 slices per loaf) is approximately:

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 4g

The Origins and History of Rhubarb

Rhubarb, often referred to as a “pie plant” because of its popularity in desserts, is a vegetable that has been used for centuries. While its roots trace back to ancient China, where it was first used for medicinal purposes, rhubarb gained popularity in Europe during the 18th century. The plant thrives in temperate climates, and its bright red stalks have become synonymous with spring and early summer.

Though commonly used in pies, jams, and other baked goods, rhubarb is actually a vegetable, not a fruit. However, its tartness and bright color have led many to associate it with fruits in culinary dishes. In the case of Sweet Rhubarb Bread, the sharpness of the rhubarb creates a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the sugar, making it a perfect addition to the loaf.

Why Make Sweet Rhubarb Bread?

Sweet Rhubarb Bread is a delightful twist on traditional quick bread recipes, making it an excellent choice for those looking to experiment with new flavors. The balance of sweet and tart in this bread is a refreshing change from the typical banana or zucchini breads that often dominate the baking scene.

One of the standout features of this recipe is the use of rhubarb, which brings a distinct, almost tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the sugar. The addition of sour cream adds richness and moisture, ensuring the bread stays soft and tender. The bread is slightly dense yet still light enough to serve as a snack or part of breakfast. It’s easy to make, requiring minimal prep time, and it offers a delicious way to use up fresh rhubarb during its short growing season.

Moreover, this recipe is highly customizable. You can adjust the sweetness depending on your personal taste preferences, or add nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to enhance the texture and flavor. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg would also provide an extra layer of warmth and spice, elevating the bread to a whole new level.

Health Benefits of Rhubarb

Rhubarb is not only delicious but also offers some health benefits, making it an excellent addition to your diet. Rich in fiber, rhubarb can support digestive health and help regulate bowel movements. Additionally, it is a good source of vitamin K, which plays a critical role in bone health and wound healing.

Rhubarb is also known for its high antioxidant content, which helps protect the body against oxidative stress and supports overall cellular health. The antioxidants in rhubarb, such as anthocyanins and flavonoids, can contribute to reducing inflammation and preventing chronic diseases. Moreover, rhubarb contains small amounts of calcium and potassium, both of which are important for bone strength and heart health.

Although it should be consumed in moderation due to its tartness, especially in its raw form, rhubarb is a great addition to any diet when used in cooking and baking. In Sweet Rhubarb Bread, the rhubarb is cooked, which minimizes any potential risks from oxalates found in the raw plant, allowing you to enjoy its benefits without worry.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

For the best results when baking Sweet Rhubarb Bread, using fresh ingredients is key. Fresh rhubarb provides the bread with a natural tartness and vibrant color that will truly shine through. The freshness of the rhubarb also ensures that it retains its texture during baking, which adds to the overall enjoyment of the bread. When selecting rhubarb, look for firm, red stalks with minimal blemishes. Avoid stalks that are wilted or discolored, as they may not have the best flavor.

Similarly, using fresh eggs, sour cream, and high-quality flour will help you achieve a superior texture and taste. Sour cream, in particular, plays an important role in ensuring the bread stays moist. The richness of the sour cream adds a subtle tang that complements the rhubarb’s tartness without overpowering it.

Additionally, the use of good-quality vanilla extract will enhance the overall flavor profile of the bread. It’s best to opt for pure vanilla extract rather than imitation vanilla, as it provides a more authentic, aromatic flavor that elevates the bread’s taste.

Baking Tips for Perfect Sweet Rhubarb Bread

To ensure that your Sweet Rhubarb Bread turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful baking tips:

1. Measure Your Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so it’s essential to measure your ingredients correctly. Using a kitchen scale for dry ingredients like flour can help ensure accuracy.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense loaf. Mix until the ingredients are just combined, and stop once you no longer see streaks of flour.

3. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, use room temperature eggs, sour cream, and milk. This helps the ingredients blend more easily and creates a smoother batter.

4. Monitor the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so be sure to keep an eye on the bread as it bakes. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

5. Let the Bread Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing. This helps the bread firm up, making it easier to cut and preventing it from becoming too crumbly.

Serving Ideas for Sweet Rhubarb Bread

Sweet Rhubarb Bread is delicious on its own, but it can also be served in a variety of creative ways. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• As a Breakfast Option: Serve a slice of Sweet Rhubarb Bread with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The bread’s sweetness and tartness make it an ideal breakfast treat, especially when paired with fresh fruit or yogurt.

• As a Snack: Pack a slice of this bread in your lunchbox for a midday snack. It’s a great option for an energy boost and is much more satisfying than a store-bought snack.

• With Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, serve Sweet Rhubarb Bread with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of the warm bread with the cold creaminess of the topping creates a luxurious dessert experience.

• With Butter or Jam: Spread a little butter on a warm slice of Sweet Rhubarb Bread for extra richness, or try it with a fruity jam for a complementary flavor combination.

Conclusion

Sweet Rhubarb Bread is a delightful recipe that brings together the best of seasonal ingredients in a simple yet delicious way. The tangy rhubarb, combined with the rich, moist texture of the bread, makes for a perfect treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether you’re a longtime fan of rhubarb or new to this unique vegetable, this bread is a wonderful introduction to its flavor and versatility.