Why Make This Recipe

Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the creaminess of cheese. This recipe is a great way to enjoy seasonal rhubarb in a sweet dessert form. If you love berry desserts, you might also want to try a blackberry cheesecake for a similar creamy indulgence.

How to Make Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups fresh rhubarb, diced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a large bowl, mix the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until crumbly. Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. You may also find Blackberry Cream Cheese Brownies useful.

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Spread evenly over the crust. Toss the diced rhubarb with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Spoon evenly over the cream cheese layer. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture generously over the top. Bake the Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is set. Let the bars cool completely before chilling for at least 1 hour for clean bakery-style slices. Slice into large squares and serve chilled or slightly softened for the creamiest texture. You may also find Blueberry Crisp Cheesecake Bars useful.

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How to Serve Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars

These bars can be served chilled from the refrigerator or slightly warmed for a soft texture. They pair well with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also enjoy these with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon snack.

How to Store Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars

To store the bars, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them; simply wrap individual bars in foil and place them in a freezer bag. Thaw before serving.

Tips to Make Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars

1. For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the crumble mixture.
2. Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing for a smooth filling.
3. If you prefer a slightly less tart flavor, add more sugar to the rhubarb mixture.
4. You can try this recipe with other fruits as well, like blueberries. For a blueberry version, check out blueberry cheesecake bars.

Variation

If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can add nuts to the crumble layer for added crunch or replace rhubarb with another fruit that you enjoy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?

Yes, frozen rhubarb can be used, but you should thaw it and drain excess liquid before using it in the recipe.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars will be done when the top is lightly golden and the filling is set. A slight jiggle in the center is okay; they will firm up as they cool.

Can I substitute the cream cheese?

While cream cheese provides a unique creamy texture, you can try mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor.

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Conclusion

Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars are a wonderful dessert option, and if you’re interested in exploring more rhubarb treats, you might want to check out A Farmgirl’s Dabbles for a delicious recipe. Additionally, consider the Rhubarb Crumble Cheesecake Bars for another twist on this delightful fruit. If you are in the mood for traditional cheesecake, the Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars are also a great option to explore. Finally, don’t miss out on the unique flavors from A Pinch of Joy. Enjoy your baking!

Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars

Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb with a creamy cheese filling, perfect for enjoying seasonal rhubarb in a sweet treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 pieces

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the crust

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened Ensure fully softened for a smooth filling.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups fresh rhubarb, diced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar For the rhubarb mixture.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, mix the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
• Stir in the melted butter until crumbly.
• Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

Filling

• In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
• Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
• Toss the diced rhubarb with the sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
• Spoon the rhubarb mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
• Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture generously over the top.
• Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is set.
• Let the bars cool completely before chilling for at least 1 hour for clean slices.
• Slice into large squares and serve chilled or slightly softened.

Notes

Serve chilled with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Store covered for up to one week in the refrigerator, or freeze wrapped in foil for longer storage.

Keyword Baking, Cream Cheese Dessert, Dessert Bars, Rhubarb Bars, Seasonal Rhubarb