Rhubarb Crisp Recipe
If you’re searching for the perfect way to celebrate the tart freshness of spring, you simply can’t go wrong with Rhubarb Crisp. This homespun dessert captures everything you love about old-fashioned comfort food in every bite: tangy rhubarb, a hint of sweetness, and a buttery, golden topping that crackles under your spoon. Whether it’s your first time experiencing the magic of rhubarb or you’re a seasoned fan eager for a delicious new take, Rhubarb Crisp is a treat that delights everyone lucky enough to grab a serving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s true beauty in the simplicity of a great Rhubarb Crisp. Each ingredient here plays a pivotal role, from the juicy, deeply pink rhubarb to cinnamon-kissed oats for irresistible crunch. Your shopping list is short and sweet, but every item matters for those bright flavors and craveable textures.
- Fresh rhubarb (4 cups, chopped): The star of our show—choose firm, vividly colored stalks for the best tart punch and lovely hue.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): This gives rhubarb the sweetness it craves, balancing its natural tang without overpowering.
- All-purpose flour, divided (1 tablespoon + 1/2 cup): Just a touch tossed with the rhubarb keeps the filling thick and luscious, while the rest helps form a crumbly topping.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats (1 cup): They create that signature crisp topping with just the right amount of chew and heartiness.
- Packed brown sugar (1 cup): Adds caramel-like warmth and depth, setting this dessert apart from the typical fruit crisp.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Butter is what brings everything together, lending richness and coaxing out deep flavors in the topping.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): A hint of spice ramps up the coziness and pairs beautifully with tart rhubarb.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): It might seem small, but it’s essential for waking up all the layers of flavor.
How to Make Rhubarb Crisp
Step 1: Prep the Rhubarb and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Give your rhubarb a quick rinse, then chop into even 1/2-inch pieces for uniform cooking. Toss the chopped rhubarb in a large bowl with granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of flour—this coats each piece, letting the sugar macerate the rhubarb and the flour thicken the juices as it bakes. Spread this lovely mixture in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish, creating an even layer from corner to corner.
Step 2: Mix Up That Crispy Topping
In another bowl, combine the oats, brown sugar, 1/2 cup of flour, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until everything is just moistened and crumbly. This is your golden ticket to a delectable crust. The buttery oat mixture will turn irresistibly crunchy in the oven, making each bite a celebration of textures.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Evenly sprinkle the oat topping over the rhubarb layer, making sure to cover the fruit completely so every serving comes with its rightful share of crisp. Place the dish on the center rack of your oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for bubbling juices around the edges and a topping that’s beautifully browned—this means it’s time to pull your Rhubarb Crisp from the oven.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Let your freshly-baked Rhubarb Crisp cool for about 10–15 minutes. This short wait offers two benefits: it brings the filling together so it’s luscious but not runny, and it guarantees you won’t burn your mouth when taking that irresistible first bite! Serve the crisp warm for maximum cozy vibes.
How to Serve Rhubarb Crisp
Garnishes
Nothing finishes off Rhubarb Crisp quite like a dollop of homemade whipped cream or a generous scoop of classic vanilla ice cream. The cool creaminess plays perfectly against the warm, tart-sweet filling and crunchy top. For extra flair, a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few fresh mint leaves can really make each plate pop at your dinner table.
Side Dishes
If you’re turning this into a luncheon or garden party dessert, consider pairing with something light and refreshing, like a simple sliced fruit medley or a citrusy salad. The tart rhubarb is wonderful next to berries, especially strawberries, and a cup of coffee or floral tea rounds out the experience beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond the basic square and try serving your Rhubarb Crisp in individual ramekins for an adorable single-serve dessert. You can also layer leftovers into a breakfast parfait with Greek yogurt and extra oats for a morning treat, or spoon some over pancakes or waffles—proving that dessert for breakfast can be totally acceptable!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Rhubarb Crisp (lucky you!), simply cover the baking dish tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The topping softens a bit after chilling, but the flavors become even more pronounced—the perfect excuse for a late-night snack!
Freezing
Want to keep the taste of spring going all year? Rhubarb Crisp freezes like a dream. Cool it completely, then wrap the entire baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Or portion it into airtight containers for individual treats. It’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To revive that just-baked magic, reheat your Rhubarb Crisp in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes until warm and the topping regains its crunch. For a single portion, the microwave works in a pinch (about 30-45 seconds), though the oven is best if you’re all about the crispy factor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen rhubarb works great in Rhubarb Crisp. Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before using, so your filling doesn’t get too watery during baking.
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
No problem. You can substitute with more granulated sugar, but if you do, consider adding a teaspoon of molasses for that lovely depth brown sugar brings to the topping.
Is it possible to make Rhubarb Crisp gluten-free?
Definitely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend and make sure your oats are labeled gluten-free. The crisp will be just as scrumptious.
Can I add other fruits?
For sure—strawberries are a classic companion, and apples or raspberries also work beautifully. Mixing in a cup of your favorite fruit can add sweetness, color, and a fun twist to your Rhubarb Crisp.
How do I prevent the topping from getting soggy?
Avoid covering the crisp until it’s fully cooled, and always reheat in the oven rather than the microwave if you want to restore a perfect crunchy top. If you like an ultra-crunchy finish, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye so it doesn’t burn!
Final Thoughts
I hope you give this Rhubarb Crisp a try and share its joyful, tangy comfort with people you love. Every bite is a celebration of spring’s best flavors, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re a long-time rhubarb aficionado or totally new to this classic, I promise you’ll fall in love with this irresistibly easy dessert!
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Rhubarb Crisp Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet and tart with this delightful Rhubarb Crisp recipe. Fresh rhubarb topped with a crunchy oat mixture, baked to golden perfection. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting dessert.
Ingredients
Rhubarb Filling:
- 4 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Oat Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Rhubarb: Toss rhubarb with sugar and flour, then spread in baking dish.
- Make Oat Mixture: Combine oats, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Mix in melted butter until crumbly.
- Assemble: Sprinkle oat mixture over rhubarb.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
- Enhance with vanilla extract or add sliced strawberries for extra flavor.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 37g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 59g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
