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Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars

Tangy Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars with Crunchy Oat Topping

Delightful Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars with a crunchy oat topping, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Cooling Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

For the Oat Crumble Topping
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Try using a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
  • 1 cup Old-Fashioned Oats Avoid instant oats as they won't offer the same crunch.
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar White sugar can be substituted, though the flavor will slightly change.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Can be swapped with nutmeg for a different twist.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Margarine can be a good alternative.
For the Rhubarb Filling
  • 2 cups Rhubarb Stalks Feel free to use fresh or frozen, no thawing required for frozen.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Adjust to taste or substitute with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch If you don’t have it, flour can provide a similar effect.
For the Cream Cheese Layer
  • 1 large Egg Replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Consider almond extract for a delightful twist.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • electric mixer
  • Oven
  • 8x8 or 9x9-inch Pan
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, salt, and optional ground cinnamon. Gradually pour in melted unsalted butter, mixing until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 or 9x9-inch pan with parchment paper. Press two-thirds of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, then bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar, then add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing gently until incorporated.
  4. In a separate bowl, toss chopped rhubarb stalks with granulated sugar and cornstarch until evenly coated.
  5. Pour the cream cheese filling over the pre-baked crust, then spoon the rhubarb mixture on top, before sprinkling the remaining crumble mixture over.
  6. Return the assembled bars to the oven, baking at 350°F (175°C) for 35-45 minutes. The center should be set and the top lightly golden.
  7. Allow them to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 2gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for future enjoyment. These bars are delightful either way!

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