15+ Rhubarb Recipes to Brighten Your Spring Desserts

15+ Rhubarb Recipes to Brighten Your Spring Desserts

ByCook Maniac Team Reading Time: 11 minutes

Rhubarb is a unique and tangy ingredient that adds a special twist to many dishes. With its vibrant color and bold flavor, rhubarb can transform your desserts and even savory meals into something extraordinary. You may not realize just how versatile this vegetable can be in your cooking.

Fresh rhubarb stalks on a wooden cutting board, surrounded by scattered sugar, flour, and a rolling pin. A mixing bowl and measuring cups sit nearby

Whether you are looking for sweet treats or creative dishes, rhubarb offers plenty of possibilities. From classic pies to refreshing sauces, you can explore a variety of recipes that celebrate this seasonal favorite.

1) Rhubarb Crisp

A rustic kitchen table with a freshly baked rhubarb crisp cooling on a wire rack, surrounded by stalks of rhubarb and a scattering of sugar

Rhubarb crisp is a delightful dessert that combines the tart flavor of rhubarb with a sweet, crunchy topping. It’s perfect for showcasing fresh rhubarb during spring.

To make this dish, you’ll need to prepare a fruit filling with diced rhubarb. The topping usually consists of flour, oats, sugar, and butter. This mix adds a nice texture when baked.

Baking it in the oven lets the flavors meld together beautifully. You’ll enjoy serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups diced rhubarb
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ¾ cup oats
  • ½ cup melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine rhubarb, flour, and sugar.
  3. In another bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter until crumbly.
  4. Spread rhubarb mixture in a baking dish.
  5. Top with the oat mixture.
  6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

2) Rhubarb Crumble Bars

A rustic kitchen counter with a tray of freshly baked rhubarb crumble bars surrounded by scattered stalks of rhubarb and a vintage recipe book

Rhubarb crumble bars are a delightful treat that combines sweet and tart flavors. The base consists of a crumbly shortbread, while the filling features tangy rhubarb. It’s topped with a crunchy oat crumble that adds great texture.

These bars are perfect for picnics or potlucks. They are easy to slice and serve. Plus, they capture the essence of spring with fresh rhubarb.

You’ll love how simple they are to make. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and cornstarch over medium heat. Cook until thickened.
  3. In a bowl, mix flour, oats, butter, baking powder, and salt until crumbly.
  4. Press half the mixture into a greased pan.
  5. Spread the rhubarb filling over the crust.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining crumble on top.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Let cool, slice, and enjoy!

3) Rhubarb Cobbler

A rustic kitchen table with a bubbling rhubarb cobbler fresh from the oven, surrounded by scattered ingredients and vintage baking utensils

Rhubarb cobbler is a delicious dessert that highlights the tart flavor of rhubarb. It’s perfect for spring and summer when rhubarb is in season.

To make this dish, you’ll combine rhubarb with sugar, then create a simple topping. It bakes to a golden brown and becomes bubbly. Enjoy it warm, especially with ice cream or whipped cream on top.

This recipe is easy to follow and a great way to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups chopped rhubarb
  • ¾ cup white sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon butter, diced
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix rhubarb, sugar, and cornstarch.
  3. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and dot with butter.
  4. In another bowl, combine flour, milk, baking powder, and vanilla.
  5. Spread the batter over the rhubarb.
  6. Bake for about 45 minutes or until golden.

4) Rhubarb Pie

A rustic kitchen table with a freshly baked rhubarb pie cooling on a wire rack, surrounded by stalks of rhubarb and a scattering of sugar

Rhubarb pie is a classic dessert that brings together the tartness of rhubarb with a sweet filling. It’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion. You can enjoy it warm or cold with a scoop of ice cream.

To start, you’ll need fresh rhubarb, sugar, and a pie crust. Mixing the rhubarb with sugar helps balance its tart flavor. You can use a store-bought crust or make your own from scratch.

Bake your pie at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, then reduce the heat and bake until bubbly. The filling should be thickened, and the crust golden brown.

Ingredients

  • 2 discs of pie dough
  • 6½ cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
  • 1½ cups granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Mix chopped rhubarb with sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a bowl.
  3. Fill the pie crust with the rhubarb mixture.
  4. Cover with a second crust or lattice, if you prefer.
  5. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until bubbly.
  6. Let it cool before serving. Enjoy!

5) Rhubarb Crunch

A rustic kitchen with a vintage pie dish filled with freshly baked rhubarb crunch, surrounded by stalks of vibrant rhubarb and a scattering of sugar and oats

Rhubarb crunch is a delicious dessert that combines tart rhubarb with a sweet, crunchy topping. It’s a perfect way to use fresh rhubarb from your garden or local market.

For this recipe, you will need rhubarb, sugar, flour, and some butter to create a tasty crunch on top. The contrast of flavors makes this dish a favorite for many.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups diced rhubarb
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 cup melted butter

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix rhubarb with white sugar and 3 tablespoons of flour.
  3. Spread the mixture in a greased baking dish.
  4. In another bowl, combine brown sugar, remaining flour, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly.
  5. Sprinkle the topping over the rhubarb mix.
  6. Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Enjoy!

6) Rhubarb Sauce

A rustic kitchen with a bubbling pot of rhubarb sauce simmering on the stove, surrounded by fresh rhubarb stalks and a scattering of sugar and spices

Rhubarb sauce is a delicious way to enjoy this unique fruit. It’s sweet and tangy, making it a perfect topping for desserts or breakfast foods. You can make it quickly with just a few simple ingredients.

To prepare, start by chopping fresh rhubarb. Then, combine it with sugar and a little water in a saucepan. Cook it over medium heat until the rhubarb is soft and breaks down.

You can use this sauce on ice cream, pancakes, or yogurt. It adds a tasty twist to many dishes.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups chopped rhubarb
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine chopped rhubarb, sugar, and water.
  2. Heat over medium until the mixture starts to boil.
  3. Reduce heat and simmer until rhubarb is soft, about 10-15 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and let it cool before serving.

7) Rhubarb Jam

A rustic kitchen table with a jar of homemade rhubarb jam, surrounded by fresh rhubarb stalks and a recipe book open to rhubarb recipes

Making rhubarb jam is a fun way to enjoy this unique fruit. You only need a few ingredients to create a delicious spread. With fresh rhubarb, sugar, lemon juice, and water, you can make this jam right at home.

Start by chopping the rhubarb and adding it to a pot with sugar and lemon juice. Cook this mixture over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. As the rhubarb breaks down, it will thicken into a jam-like consistency.

Once it’s to your liking, pour it into jars and let it cool. Your homemade rhubarb jam is now ready to spread on toast or mix into desserts!

Ingredients

  • 4 cups chopped rhubarb
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup water

Cooking Instructions

  1. Chop the rhubarb into small pieces.
  2. In a pot, combine rhubarb, sugar, lemon juice, and water.
  3. Cook over medium-high heat until boiling, stirring occasionally.
  4. Once thickened, pour the jam into sterilized jars.
  5. Allow to cool before sealing the jars.

8) Rhubarb Compote

A rustic kitchen counter with a simmering pot of rhubarb compote surrounded by fresh rhubarb stalks and scattered sugar

Rhubarb compote is a simple, delicious treat. You can use it as a topping for desserts or enjoy it on its own. This dish balances sweet and tart flavors perfectly.

To make rhubarb compote, you need fresh rhubarb, sugar, and some vanilla for added flavor. You can adjust the sweetness to your taste.

The cooking process is quick, taking about 15 minutes. You’ll end up with a vibrant compote that brightens up any meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound rhubarb (6 to 7 medium stalks)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

  1. Chop the rhubarb into small pieces.
  2. In a saucepan, combine the rhubarb and sugar over low heat.
  3. Cook for about 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
  5. Remove from heat and let it cool before serving.

9) Rhubarb Buckle

A rustic kitchen table with a freshly baked rhubarb buckle and a pile of rhubarb stalks

Rhubarb buckle is a delightful dessert that combines tart rhubarb with a sweet, crumbly topping. This baked treat is perfect for spring when rhubarb is in season.

You start with a simple cake base, which is layered with fresh rhubarb. The crumb topping adds a satisfying crunch.

It’s great for breakfast or as a sweet snack. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream for an extra special touch.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups diced fresh rhubarb
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ cup butter, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Beat in the butter, egg, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
  4. Fold in the rhubarb gently.
  5. Pour into a greased baking dish.
  6. Bake for about 40-50 minutes until golden brown.

10) Rhubarb Cordial

A pitcher of rhubarb cordial surrounded by fresh rhubarb stalks and leaves on a rustic wooden table

Making rhubarb cordial is a fun way to use fresh rhubarb. This sweet drink is perfect for warm weather and can be enjoyed on its own or mixed into cocktails.

Start by chopping up the rhubarb and mixing it with sugar, water, and lemon for a refreshing flavor. You can also add ginger for a bit of spice.

Let everything simmer, then strain it to create a lovely syrup. Once cooled, mix with your favorite alcohol, or enjoy it as a non-alcoholic drink.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds (about 900 grams) fresh rhubarb, chopped
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 liter (about 4 cups) vodka or water
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon

Cooking Instructions

  1. Combine chopped rhubarb, sugar, lemon juice, and zest in a pot.
  2. Add 4 cups of water (946 ml) and bring to a boil over medium heat.
  3. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Strain the mixture through a sieve into a clean bottle.
  5. Add vodka if desired and mix well. Enjoy!

11) Rhubarb Salad Dressing

A rustic kitchen counter with fresh rhubarb, a cutting board, a knife, and a mixing bowl filled with ingredients for making rhubarb salad dressing

Rhubarb salad dressing adds a unique tangy flavor to your greens. It’s simple to make and can brighten up any salad.

Start by simmering chopped rhubarb until it softens. This usually takes just a few minutes. Then, puree it with honey, oil, and vinegar for a delicious mix.

You can use different oils and vinegars based on your taste. Many recipes call for avocado oil and white balsamic vinegar for a smooth finish.

This dressing pairs well with fresh vegetables and can even be drizzled over fruit salads for a surprising twist.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup chopped rhubarb
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/3 cup avocado oil
  • 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Chop the rhubarb into small pieces.
  2. Simmer it in a pot with a little water until soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. Let it cool slightly, then blend with honey, oil, and vinegar.
  4. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well before serving.

12) Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce

A pot of simmering rhubarb barbecue sauce on a stovetop, surrounded by fresh rhubarb stalks, garlic cloves, and other ingredients

Rhubarb barbecue sauce offers a unique twist to traditional barbecue flavors. The tartness of rhubarb pairs wonderfully with sweet and savory ingredients. You can use this sauce on grilled meats or as a dip for veggies.

To make this sauce, you’ll need diced rhubarb, diced onion, and a few pantry staples. The addition of spices elevates its taste, creating a one-of-a-kind barbecue experience.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups diced rhubarb
  • ½ cup diced onion
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup water
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
  3. Stir in rhubarb, ketchup, sugar, and water.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer for about 20 minutes.
  5. Blend until smooth and adjust seasoning before serving.

13) Rhubarb Cocktail

A tall glass filled with a vibrant pink rhubarb cocktail, garnished with a twist of rhubarb and a sprig of fresh mint, sitting on a rustic wooden table

A rhubarb cocktail is a refreshing drink that showcases the unique sweet and tart flavors of rhubarb. You can make it with various spirits, adding a twist to your gatherings.

Start by using rhubarb syrup, which you can make at home by simmering rhubarb with sugar and water. Combine this syrup with your choice of alcohol, like vodka or rum. For an added zing, include fresh lemon juice or lime juice.

You can experiment with herbs, like rosemary, to enhance the cocktail’s taste. This drink can be a fun surprise for your friends and family.

Ingredients

  • 1 oz rhubarb syrup
  • 1 oz vodka or rum
  • 0.5 oz fresh lemon or lime juice
  • Fresh herbs (optional)
  • Ice

Cooking Instructions

  1. Make the rhubarb syrup by simmering rhubarb, sugar, and water.
  2. In a shaker, combine rhubarb syrup, vodka or rum, and lemon or lime juice.
  3. Add ice and shake well.
  4. Strain into a glass and garnish with herbs if desired.

14) Rhubarb Fools

A table set with rhubarb fools, surrounded by fresh rhubarb stalks and leaves. A pitcher of cream and a bowl of sugar sit nearby

Rhubarb fools are a delightful dessert that combines tangy rhubarb with creamy goodness. This simple yet elegant treat is perfect for spring.

To start, cook rhubarb with sugar until soft. Once it’s cooled, gently fold it into whipped cream. This creates a light and airy dessert. You can also mix in yogurt for a different taste.

Serve the rhubarb fool in individual cups for a charming presentation. It’s a lovely way to enjoy fresh rhubarb and impress your guests.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups chopped rhubarb
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine rhubarb and sugar.
  2. Cook on medium heat until the rhubarb is soft, about 10 minutes.
  3. Let the mixture cool.
  4. In a bowl, whip the cream until stiff peaks form.
  5. Fold in rhubarb and vanilla.
  6. Serve in cups or bowls.

15) Rhubarb Muffins

A table set with freshly baked rhubarb muffins, surrounded by stalks of rhubarb and a scattering of sugar

Rhubarb muffins are a delicious treat that you can enjoy for breakfast or as a snack. They have a nice balance of sweet and tangy flavors, thanks to the fresh rhubarb. The muffins have a moist texture that makes them perfect for any time of day.

You can add a crunchy cinnamon topping for extra flavor. This topping contrasts nicely with the soft muffin. You can enjoy these muffins plain or add a bit of butter for a tasty touch.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup diced rhubarb
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, combine milk, oil, and egg.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix.
  5. Fold in diced rhubarb.
  6. Spoon the batter into a muffin tin.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Similar Posts