Oh, my friends! Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite treats: Delicious Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars. These bars are the perfect balance of sweet and tart, and they have this delightful chewy texture that keeps me coming back for more. Honestly, there’s just something incredibly nostalgic about slicing into a pan of golden-brown goodness that reminds me of summer afternoons spent baking with my grandma. I mean, what’s not to love about a recipe that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the bright, refreshing flavor of rhubarb?
These oatmeal rhubarb bars have become a staple in my household. They are fantastic for breakfast on the go, a snack in between meals, or even a guilt-free dessert. Plus, they’re super simple to make! I promise you, once you try them, they’ll likely become a favorite in your recipe lineup too.
What’s in Delicious Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars?
Rhubarb: The star of the show! Rhubarb brings that wonderful tartness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the bars. Fresh rhubarb is my go-to, but you can also use frozen if you want to save time.
Oats: We’re using rolled oats here for that chewy, hearty texture. They provide not only structure but also some excellent health benefits too.
Brown Sugar: This adds a rich sweetness with a hint of molasses that pairs beautifully with the rhubarb. I love using dark brown sugar for an extra punch of flavor.
Butter: The secret to making these bars wonderfully buttery and moist! You can use unsalted butter to control the saltiness, which offers a perfectly balanced flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps bind everything together and gives the bars that classic cookie-like consistency.
Baking Powder: A little bit of baking powder helps the bars rise slightly and gives a light texture.
Salt: Don’t skip this! A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors beautifully.
Cinnamon: The warm spice of cinnamon makes everything feel cozy and just right.
Is Delicious Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars Good for You?
Yes, absolutely! These bars can be a healthier treat compared to many desserts, mainly because they utilize wholesome ingredients.
Oats: Rich in fiber and great for digestion, oats can help keep you full longer. They are also linked to lower cholesterol levels and improved heart health.
Rhubarb: Low in calories and high in fiber, rhubarb is also a great source of vitamin K, which is important for bone health.
However, let’s be real; these bars do have some sugar. Moderation is key, so enjoy them as a delightful treat in your day!
Ingredients
– 2 cups rolled oats (I prefer old-fashioned for the best texture)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar (dark brown for richness)
– 1 cup chopped rhubarb (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water (if using fresh rhubarb to add moisture)
*This recipe serves about 12 bars.*
How to Make Delicious Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Pour in the melted butter and mix until everything is well combined. It should be crumbly and slightly wet – like wet sand.
4. Press about two-thirds of this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer.
5. If using fresh rhubarb, toss it with a little water to help soften it up. Layer the chopped rhubarb evenly over the pressed oat mixture.
6. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the rhubarb, making sure to cover it evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
8. Allow the bars to cool in the pan before slicing into squares.
A Little Extra Love for Your Bars
– *Variations:* If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chopped nuts or a handful of raisins for added texture.
– *Serving suggestion:* These bars are delightful warm or at room temperature. They pair exceptionally well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of yogurt!
So, there you have it – my go-to Delicious Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars recipe! I really hope you’ll give it a try. I know you’ll love it just as much as I do. And please, let me know how it turns out for you; I can’t wait to hear about your baking adventures!
