Description

These Buttery Rhubarb Shortbread Bars feature a rich, tender shortbread crust layered with a vibrant, tangy rhubarb filling and finished with a golden, buttery crumble topping. The contrast of sweet and tart flavors wrapped in a melt-in-your-mouth texture makes this dessert a seasonal favorite. Perfect for spring gatherings, tea parties, or a simple afternoon treat, these bars are easy to make and impossible to resist.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shortbread Crust & Crumble:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Rhubarb Filling:
- 1 cup rhubarb, chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (for brushing the top)

Instructions

Preheat & Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Make the Shortbread Dough:
Cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Sift in the flour and salt, then mix until a soft dough forms.
Form the Crust:
Press two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the base crust.
Prepare the Filling:
In a separate bowl, combine chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla, and lemon juice. Toss until rhubarb is fully coated.
Layer & Crumble:
Spoon the rhubarb mixture evenly over the crust. Crumble the remaining dough over the top for a buttery topping.
Egg Wash & Bake:
Lightly brush the top with the beaten egg. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbly.
Cool & Slice:
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into 12 squares or rectangles. Enjoy!

Notes

Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars store beautifully. Keep them chilled for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Use Fresh or Frozen Rhubarb: If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture to avoid soggy bars.
Add a Hint of Spice: A pinch of cinnamon or ginger can subtly elevate the flavor of the rhubarb filling.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert, Bars
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American, Seasonal

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 220 kcal
Sugar: 11 g
Sodium: 60 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 26 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 2 g
Cholesterol: 38 mg

Keywords: rhubarb shortbread bars, buttery rhubarb dessert, rhubarb crumble bars