Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars

When the rhubarb stalks are ruby red, it’s a sign that summer must be right around the corner. After harvesting rhubarb fresh from my garden, I love to make rhubarb dessert recipes that highlight the tart fruit. This recipe for sweet and tart rhubarb oatmeal bars features a simple preparation and a short baking time, making it a great go-to recipe for any summertime get-together.

Rhubarb Oatmeal Bar Ingredients

• Rhubarb (fresh or frozen)
• Brown sugar
• Water
• Lemon juice
• Cornstarch
• Old-fashioned oats
• All-purpose flour
• Sweetened shredded coconut
• Salt
• Butter

Directions

Step 1: Cook the rhubarb

Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large saucepan, combine the rhubarb, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 3 tablespoons water and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium. Cook and stir for four to five minutes or until the rhubarb is tender.

Step 2: Thicken the rhubarb

Whisk together the cornstarch and remaining water until smooth. Gradually stir the cornstarch slurry into the rhubarb mixture. Bring to a boil. Cook and stir for two minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the crumble

In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, coconut, salt and remaining brown sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is crumbly.

Step 4: Layer the crumble and rhubarb

Press half the oats mixture into a greased 8-inch square baking dish. Spread the rhubarb mixture on top. Then sprinkle with the remaining oat mixture and press down lightly.

Step 5: Bake the bars

Bake at for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack, then cut into squares.

How to Store Rhubarb Oatmeal Bars

Leftover rhubarb bars with oatmeal should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If storing individual bars, place a piece of parchment or waxed paper between the layers to prevent the bars from sticking together. Rhubarb squares with oatmeal can also be stored in a freezer-safe airtight container for up to three months.

Rhubarb Oatmeal Bar Tips

Can you use frozen rhubarb to make rhubarb oatmeal bars?

Absolutely! Using frozen rhubarb is a great way to enjoy rhubarb desserts outside of rhubarb season. To use frozen rhubarb, measure the rhubarb while still frozen, then thaw it completely. Drain it in a colander, but do not squeeze out the liquid.

How do you prevent rhubarb oatmeal bars from crumbling?

To avoid crumbly bars, allow the oatmeal rhubarb bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares.

Can you add strawberries to rhubarb oatmeal bars?

Strawberries and rhubarb go together like peanut butter and jelly. To make strawberry rhubarb oat bars, replace up to half the chopped rhubarb with chopped strawberries.

What can you serve with rhubarb oatmeal bars?

Either a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream would be a tasty topping for these oatmeal rhubarb bars.