A perfect harmony of tangy rhubarb, velvety cream cheese, and buttery oat crumble—these bars are irresistibly rich yet refreshing! Ideal for spring gatherings, brunches, or dessert nights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✔ Three dreamy layers (buttery crust, creamy filling, tart rhubarb + crunchy topping)
✔ Balanced sweetness (tangy rhubarb cuts through the richness)
✔ Meal-prep friendly—stays fresh for days!
✔ Freezer-friendly for rhubarb season cravings
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Rhubarb Layer
- 2 cups rhubarb, chopped (fresh or frozen)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Crumb Topping
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cold butter, cubed
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prep & Preheat
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease or line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Make the Crust
- In a bowl, mix flour + powdered sugar.
- Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Press firmly into the pan.
- Bake 12–15 mins until lightly golden.
3️⃣ Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- Spread over the warm crust.
4️⃣ Add the Rhubarb Layer
- Toss rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
- Sprinkle evenly over the cream cheese layer.
5️⃣ Make the Crumb Topping
- Mix oats, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
- Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Sprinkle over rhubarb.
6️⃣ Bake & Cool
- Bake 35–40 mins until golden and set.
- Cool completely before slicing.
Serving & Storage
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
❄️ Storage Tips
- Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I use frozen rhubarb?
✅ Yes! Thaw and drain excess liquid first.
2. Why is my cream cheese layer lumpy?
⚠️ Softened cream cheese is key—microwave for 10 sec if needed.
3. Can I use a different fruit?
🍓 Strawberry-rhubarb combo works beautifully!
4. How do I prevent a soggy crust?
✨ Pre-bake the crust (step 2) and drain rhubarb well.
5. Can I make these gluten-free?
✅ Use GF flour blend and certified GF oats.
Nutritional Info (Per Bar)
⏰ Prep Time: 20 mins | Bake Time: 40 mins | Total Time: 1 hr (+ cooling)
🔥 Calories: ~280 kcal | Servings: 9 bars
Final Thoughts
These Creamy Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars are a showstopping dessert—tangy, creamy, and crunchy in every bite. Perfect for rhubarb season or anytime you crave a fruity, decadent treat!
Tried it? Tag us in your creations! 📸👇
Enjoy! 🍰💖
