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.
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.