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Delightful Rhubarb Shortbread Bars with a Buttery Crust

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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.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup powdered sugar

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

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

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. 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.
  3. Press two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the base crust.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla, and lemon juice. Toss until rhubarb is fully coated.
  5. Spoon the rhubarb mixture evenly over the crust. Crumble the remaining dough over the top for a buttery topping.
  6. Lightly brush the top with the beaten egg. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbly.
  7. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into 12 squares or rectangles. Enjoy!

Notes

  • These bars can be made with other seasonal fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. Adjust sugar and cornstarch accordingly.
  • Add a hint of orange zest to the rhubarb filling for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Stir in chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into the crumble topping for added texture and flavor.
  • Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

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