Description
Rhubarb custard bars bring sweet-tart magic to classic dessert lovers, combining creamy custard with tangy rhubarb in a buttery crust. Bakers will delight in this simple yet elegant treat that balances rustic charm with sophisticated flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients:
- 5 cups rhubarb, finely chopped (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cold butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
Filling and Topping Ingredients:
- 2 cups sugar
- 7 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped
Instructions
- Craft a buttery foundation by blending flour and sugar, then incorporate cold butter until the mixture transforms into delicate, crumbly terrain. Press this sandy mixture firmly into a rectangular baking vessel, creating an even, compact base.
- Dispatch the prepared crust into a preheated oven, allowing it to develop a light golden complexion for approximately 10 minutes, establishing a sturdy platform for the luscious layers to follow.
- Orchestrate the vibrant rhubarb filling by whisking together sugar and flour, then gently introducing cream and eggs until a smooth, cohesive mixture emerges. Fold chopped rhubarb throughout the liquid canvas, ensuring even distribution.
- Cascade the rhubarb custard mixture over the partially baked crust, spreading it carefully to create an uniform landscape of tangy potential. Return to the oven, allowing the custard to set and transform into a silky, wobbling masterpiece.
- While the custard bakes and cools, whip cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until luxuriously smooth. Gently fold in billowy whipped cream, creating a cloud-like topping that promises decadent contrast.
- Once the custard has completely cooled and stabilized, crown it with the ethereal cream cheese topping, spreading with a delicate touch to preserve the underlying custard’s integrity.
- Refrigerate the assembled dessert, permitting the layers to meld and solidify. When thoroughly chilled, slice into elegant rectangular servings, ready to delight discerning palates.
Notes
- Experiment with different rhubarb varieties like red or green for unique color and flavor variations.
- Substitute some flour with almond flour for a gluten-reduced option that adds nutty depth.
- Ensure rhubarb is chopped uniformly to guarantee consistent cooking and texture throughout the custard bars.
- Chill the bars for at least 4 hours to allow the custard to set completely and develop richer, more intense flavors.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg