When it comes to springtime cooking, few ingredients are as iconic or underappreciated as rhubarb. This tart and tangy vegetable (yes, it’s a vegetable!) is often overlooked in favor of more glamorous fruits, but trust us: once you’ve tried some of these delicious rhubarb recipes, you’ll be hooked.
From sweet treats like muffins and cakes to savory dishes like compotes and chutneys, rhubarb is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can add a burst of flavor and color to any meal. In this article, we’ll explore 20 simple and easy rhubarb recipes that are perfect for springtime cooking. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast idea or a show-stopping dessert, we’ve got you covered.
Easy Rhubarb Crumble
Easy Rhubarb Crumble Recipe
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this sweet and tangy rhubarb crumble that’s perfect for a quick dessert or snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying the warm, comforting aroma of fresh rhubarb in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and cold butter until crumbly. Add rolled oats and mix until just combined.
4. Pour the rhubarb mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish. Top with the crumble mixture.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Simple Rhubarb Compote
A sweet and tangy compote that’s perfect as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rhubarb and sugar.
2. Add the water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
This simple compote is perfect as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream. You can also use it as a filling for cakes and pastries. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Quick Rhubarb Muffins
Start your day with a burst of flavor from these easy-to-make rhubarb muffins, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup diced fresh rhubarb (about 3 stalks)
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, and diced rhubarb.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make Quick Rhubarb Muffins!
Easy Rhubarb Pie
Easy Rhubarb Pie Recipe
A classic dessert that’s perfect for warm weather, this easy rhubarb pie recipe is a refreshing twist on traditional fruit pies. With just 6 ingredients and minimal prep work, you’ll be enjoying a delicious slice in no time!
- 1 cup fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine rhubarb, sugar, flour, and salt. Let sit for 15 minutes, allowing the rhubarb to release its juices.
- Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place rhubarb mixture into the crust.
- Cover with another piece of pie crust or a pastry crumb topping.
- Egg wash: Beat egg in a small bowl, then brush over pie crust to give it a golden brown finish.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until crust is golden and filling is bubbly. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time:
40-45 minutes
Simple Rhubarb Jam
This simple recipe yields a deliciously sweet and tangy rhubarb jam that’s perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries. With just 4 ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy the flavor of fresh rhubarb all year round.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Combine rhubarb, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the jam has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
4. Let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Rhubarb Sauce
Sweeten up your morning with this simple and tangy rhubarb sauce recipe that’s perfect for topping pancakes, waffles, or yogurt. With just a few ingredients and 10 minutes of cooking time, you’ll be enjoying the sweet-tart flavor of fresh rhubarb in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Add water and salt; whisk until the mixture is smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the rhubarb is tender (about 10 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Easy Rhubarb Cobbler
Tart rhubarb meets sweet biscuit in this simple and delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup biscuit mix (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine rhubarb, sugar, flour, and salt; toss until well combined.
3. Pour the melted butter over the rhubarb mixture and stir to coat.
4. Open the biscuit mix packet according to package instructions or prepare homemade biscuits.
5. Spread the biscuit mixture evenly over the rhubarb filling.
6. Drizzle the heavy cream or half-and-half over the biscuit layer.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the biscuit is golden brown and the rhubarb is tender.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Simple Rhubarb Smoothie
Brighten up your morning with this refreshing and tangy rhubarb smoothie. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy drink that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh rhubarb, chopped
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the chopped rhubarb, sliced banana, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness to your liking.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. You can add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
Cooking Time: None!
Quick Rhubarb Bread
Rise to the occasion with this deliciously moist and flavorful rhubarb bread that’s perfect for a springtime treat or breakfast on-the-go. This easy recipe yields a beautiful, golden-brown loaf with a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup rhubarb, diced (about 2 stalks)
– 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and rhubarb; stir until just combined.
4. Pour in milk and mix until the batter is smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Rhubarb Crisp
Sweet and tangy, this rhubarb crisp is a perfect springtime dessert or snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine rhubarb, granulated sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Spread the oat mixture evenly over the rhubarb filling.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Simple Rhubarb Tart
This sweet and tangy tart is a perfect showcase for rhubarb’s unique flavor and texture. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix together rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt. Arrange mixture in a single layer on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape. Brush with beaten egg for glaze.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and filling is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quick Rhubarb Pancakes
Start your day with a sweet and tangy twist on traditional pancakes. These fluffy treats are packed with the flavors of fresh rhubarb and perfect for a weekend brunch or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 cup diced fresh rhubarb
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in diced rhubarb.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on number of pancakes).
Easy Rhubarb Fool
Easy Rhubarb Fool Recipe
A Sweet and Tangy Treat
Combine fresh rhubarb with creamy custard, sugar, and eggs for a classic dessert that’s easy to make and delightfully refreshing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rhubarb is tender and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cream, egg yolks, and melted butter.
4. Strain the cooked rhubarb into the cream mixture, discarding any excess liquid.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
6. Bake until the fool is set and slightly puffed, about 25-30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Rhubarb Chutney
This sweet and tangy rhubarb chutney is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, cheeses, or as a topping for crackers. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious condiment in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rhubarb is tender.
3. Stir in grated ginger and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Quick Rhubarb Sorbet
Quick Rhubarb Sorbet Recipe
Rhubarb’s tart flavor shines in this refreshing sorbet, perfect for warm weather or as a palate cleanser between courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh rhubarb stalks, trimmed and chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, water, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened and the rhubarb is tender.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop and serve.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Freezing Time: 2-3 hours
Easy Rhubarb Cake
Moist and flavorful, this rhubarb cake is a perfect treat for springtime. With its tender crumb and sweet-tart flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup chopped fresh rhubarb
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped rhubarb.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Simple Rhubarb Syrup
Rhubarb syrup adds a sweet and tangy twist to cocktails, desserts, and even savory dishes. This simple recipe yields a delicious and versatile syrup perfect for experimenting with.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– Optional: lemon slices or citrus zest for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to simmer (about 5 minutes).
2. Add the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened slightly and reduced by about half.
4. Remove from heat and strain through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle. Discard solids.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Rhubarb Cookies
Rhubarb’s tart flavor pairs perfectly with sweet cookies, making these treats a delightful springtime surprise. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a batch of fresh-baked goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped fresh rhubarb
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet mixture; stir until just combined.
6. Fold in chopped rhubarb.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Easy Rhubarb Pudding
A sweet and tangy dessert that’s perfect for warm weather, this easy rhubarb pudding is a refreshing twist on traditional desserts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Add the water, salt, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the rhubarb is tender (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the pudding to chill and set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Rhubarb Ice Cream
This refreshing dessert combines the sweet and tart flavors of rhubarb with a creamy ice cream base, perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pureed rhubarb (about 1 pound fresh rhubarb)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the pureed rhubarb and vanilla extract. Let it steep for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the solids.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until cold, at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (steeping) + chilling time
Summary
Rhubarb recipes galore! Discover 20 simple and easy-to-make dishes that showcase the tart and tangy flavor of this underrated vegetable. From classic desserts like crumble, pie, and jam to savory options like compote, chutney, and sauce, there’s something for everyone. Plus, get creative with breakfast treats like muffins, pancakes, and smoothies, or indulge in sweet treats like cake, pudding, and ice cream. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
