Easy Strawberry Rhubarb Bars with Oat Crumble Topping

Strawberry Rhubarb Bars with Oat Crumble Topping

There’s something immensely satisfying about biting into a dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness, with a delightful crunch to boot. Strawberry Rhubarb Bars with Oat Crumble Topping offer just that—a marriage of juicy strawberries, tangy rhubarb, and a crumbly oat topping that promises to be a hit at any gathering. These bars are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a celebration of the vibrant colors and flavors of spring and summer.

Ingredients

• For the Fruit Filling:

  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 cup fresh rhubarb, sliced
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• For the Crust and Crumble Topping:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Method

1. Preheat and Prepare:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

2. 

   Prepare the Fruit Filling:

   • In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries, rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld and juices to form.

3. Make the Crust and Crumble:

   • In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract, stirring to combine until the mixture is crumbly yet sticks together when pressed.

4. Assemble:

   • Press about two-thirds of the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer for the crust. Ensure it reaches into the corners of the pan.
   • Evenly distribute the strawberry rhubarb mixture over the crust.
   • Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the top as a crumble, covering the fruit filling completely.

5. Bake:

   • Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbly.

6. Cool and Serve:

   • Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan. Use the parchment overhang to lift them out and cut them into squares. Enjoy!

Nutritional Value and Pairings

These Strawberry Rhubarb Bars are a delightful dessert that provides a good source of dietary fiber from the oats and fruit. They are also rich in vitamin C, thanks to the strawberries, and provide a modest amount of energy for a sweet treat.

For a more balanced meal experience, consider pairing these bars with a light salad like a mixed green salad with a honey mustard vinaigrette to complement the sweetness. Drinks such as a refreshing iced tea or a chilled glass of white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, can enhance the fruity notes of the dessert, making it a refreshing end to your meal.