Are you dreaming of sunny days and sweet treats? Then look no further! These Strawberry Rhubarb Bars are the perfect blend of tart and sweet, offering a delightful taste of summer that's surprisingly easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your homemade cooking journey, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a quick dessert or a delightful addition to your next picnic. This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that doesn't compromise on deliciousness. Get ready to experience the best recipes of summer!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
For the Filling:
- 4 cups rhubarb, chopped (about 1 pound)
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Crumble Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
Instructions:
Making the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Preparing the Filling:
- In a separate bowl, gently combine the chopped rhubarb, sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, flour, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the fruit mushy.
Assembling and Baking:
- Pour the fruit filling evenly over the prepared crust.
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt for the crumble topping.
- Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the fruit filling.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh, ripe rhubarb and strawberries for the best flavor.
- Don't overmix the fruit filling to prevent it from becoming too watery.
- For a crispier topping, bake the bars for a few extra minutes.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent them from crumbling.
Variations:
- Add a touch of spice: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or ginger into the crumble topping for a warmer flavor profile.
- Make it sweeter: Increase the amount of sugar in both the filling and the topping if you prefer a sweeter treat.
- Use different fruits: Substitute other berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, for some or all of the strawberries.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and serving size. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator online with the specific ingredients used. However, generally expect this recipe to provide a good source of fiber from the fruit and oats.
These Strawberry Rhubarb Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this burst of summer flavor! This quick dinner idea is sure to impress your friends and family with its delicious taste and effortless preparation. Remember to check out more of our healthy meals and food recipes for more inspiration!