Ah, Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars! Just reading that brings back memories of sunny afternoons spent in my grandmother’s garden, where tangy rhubarb stalks were practically begging to be transformed into something delicious. These bars are the perfect blend of sweet and sour, with a hearty oatmeal crust that is both satisfying and delightful. I’d often whip these up when I wanted to impress friends or bring a little slice of nostalgia to gatherings.
What I love most about these bars is how comforting they feel. They make for a delicious snack or an easy dessert. Plus, there’s something about that crumbly topping paired with the tart rhubarb filling that sends my taste buds on a nostalgic trip back to those garden days. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into the deliciousness of Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars!
What’s in Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars?
Oats: The star of the show! They add a wonderful texture and nuttiness to the crust and topping. I usually opt for old-fashioned rolled oats for that perfect chewiness.
Rhubarb: This is where the magic happens! Tart and vibrant, rhubarb is a springtime treasure that adds a refreshing zing to the bars. If you’re lucky enough to have some fresh rhubarb, it’s definitely worth using.
Brown Sugar: For that rich, caramel flavor and to balance out the tartness of the rhubarb. I love using dark brown sugar because it deepens the flavor even more.
Flour: A bit of all-purpose flour helps bind everything together into the perfect bar structure.
Butter: Because everything’s better with butter! It adds richness and binds the crust and crumble topping.
Sugar: A little granulated sugar can be thrown in to sweeten the rhubarb filling if it’s too tart for your liking.
Cinnamon: Just a sprinkle adds warmth and spice, making these bars cozy and inviting.
Is Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars Good for You?
Well, I wouldn’t say they’re a health food, but they do have some redeeming qualities!
Rhubarb: This vegetable (yep, it’s a vegetable!) is low in calories and a great source of dietary fiber, Vitamin C, and calcium. It’s a beneficial addition to your diet in moderation.
Oats: Whole grain oats provide fiber and can help keep you feeling full longer. They can also help with cholesterol levels.
However, keep in mind that the added sugar and butter can turn these bars into a more indulgent treat, so moderation is key! Enjoying one bar along with a cup of tea or a dollop of Greek yogurt can make for a balanced snack.
Ingredients List
– 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 4 cups rhubarb, chopped (fresh or frozen)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
This recipe serves about 12 bars.
How to Make Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly. Reserve about 1 cup of this mixture for the topping.
3. In a separate bowl, toss the chopped rhubarb with granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
4. Spread the rhubarb mixture evenly in the baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the reserved oat topping over the rhubarb.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the rhubarb is bubbly.
7. Let cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting into bars. Enjoy with a scoop of ice cream if you’re feeling indulgent!
Sweet Tips for a Perfect Bar
– Experiment with different fruits based on what’s in season. Strawberries or raspberries make lovely alternatives!
– If you love nuts, adding some chopped walnuts or almonds to the crumb mixture can give the bars an extra crunch.
– These bars store well in an airtight container and can be frozen if you want to enjoy them later (though they rarely last that long!).
I can’t wait for you to try these Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars! They’re always a hit, and I hope they bring you as much joy and nostalgia as they do for me. When you give them a whirl, make sure to snap a picture and share your experience. Happy baking!
