🍰 Rhubarb Custard Bars (Sweet, Tangy, and Creamy)

Rhubarb Custard Bars are the perfect balance of tart and sweet with a buttery shortbread crust, creamy custard filling, and soft chunks of fresh rhubarb. These bars are a delightful way to enjoy rhubarb season and make a refreshing dessert for spring and summer gatherings. The creamy custard mellows out the rhubarb’s tartness, creating a melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s easy to prepare.

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 45 mins

Rest Time 30 mins

Total Time 1 hr 30 mins

Cooking Method: Baking

Cuisine: American

Courses: Desert, Snack

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cooking Temp: 175 C

Servings: 12

Estimated Cost: 10

Calories: 240 kcal

Best Season: Spring, Summer

Description

These rhubarb custard bars combine the bright tartness of fresh rhubarb with a rich, creamy custard filling, all layered on a tender shortbread base. Perfect for picnics, brunches, or any springtime dessert table.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 cup powdered sugar

For the Filling:

1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1/2 cup heavy cream
3 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped

Optional Garnish:

Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2
2. Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3
3. Bake the Crust: Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
4
4. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, eggs, and cream until smooth. Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb.
5
5. Pour and Bake: Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custard is set and lightly golden on top.
6
6. Cool and Serve: Allow to cool completely at room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing into bars. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours for cleaner cuts, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12

Amount Per Serving
Calories 240kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 12g19%
Saturated Fat 7g35%
Cholesterol 65mg22%
Sodium 30mg2%
Potassium 1mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 18g
Protein 3g6%

Calcium 40 mg
Iron 0.5 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

📝 Storage Notes:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Best enjoyed chilled for a firmer custard texture.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

🍽️ Serving Tips:

Delicious with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Perfect for afternoon tea, picnics, or brunch spreads.

Keywords: rhubarb custard bars, spring desserts, rhubarb dessert recipe, easy custard bars, rhubarb squares