Easy Gluten Free Rhubarb Bars Recipe

Hey there, dessert lovers! Laya here, and I’m SO excited to share my latest kitchen creation with you: Easy Gluten Free Rhubarb Bars! These bars are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, with a buttery, crumbly gluten-free crust that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds!). If you’re looking for a simple yet stunning dessert that’s perfect for spring, you’ve come to the right place. Trust me, these bars are about to become your new go-to treat!

I’ve always been a huge fan of rhubarb. Its unique tangy flavor adds a delightful twist to any dessert. But finding a truly delicious gluten-free rhubarb recipe? That was a challenge! So, naturally, I took matters into my own hands and developed this recipe. And let me tell you, it’s a game-changer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seriously, what’s not to love? These Gluten Free Rhubarb Bars are:

• Gluten-Free Goodness: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking for a lighter dessert option.
• Sweet & Tart Perfection: The rhubarb filling is perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is so simple, even beginner bakers can nail it.
• Crowd-Pleasing: These bars are always a hit at parties, potlucks, or even just a cozy night in.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the filling with other fruits like strawberries or raspberries.

Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while these bars are baking is simply divine! Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3/4 cup old-fashioned oats, gluten-free (80 grams)
• 1 cup oat flour (100 grams)
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon tapioca starch (or cornstarch)
• 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup melted vegetable shortening (such as nutiva coconut/palm oil spread, or butter)
• 1 1/4 cups raspberry rhubarb compote
• 2 cups chopped rhubarb, frozen or fresh (225 grams)
• 1 1/4 cups raspberries, organic and frozen or fresh (170 grams)
• 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon raw cane sugar
• Zest and juice of one lemon
• 3 teaspoons cornstarch or tapioca starch
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence

Let’s Bake! Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create the most amazing Gluten Free Rhubarb Bars:

1. Prep the Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free oats, oat flour, brown sugar, tapioca starch, baking powder, sea salt, and cinnamon. Add the melted vegetable shortening and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Press the Crust: Press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture into the bottom of a parchment paper-lined 8×8 inch baking pan. This will form the base of the crust.
3. Prepare the Rhubarb Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb, raspberries, raw cane sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, cornstarch or tapioca starch, and vanilla essence. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Bars: Spread the rhubarb filling evenly over the pressed crust in the pan. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top of the rhubarb filling.
5. Bake: Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If you notice the crust browning too quickly, you can tent the pan with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking time.
6. Cool and Cut: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This will help the filling set properly. For best results, chill them in the fridge for up to an hour before slicing.

Pro Tips for Perfect Rhubarb Bars

Want to take your rhubarb bars from good to AMAZING? Here are a few of my top tips:

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the flavor! Opt for fresh, ripe rhubarb and high-quality gluten-free oats and flour.
• Don’t Overmix the Crust: Overmixing can result in a tough crust. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Parchment Paper is Your Friend: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper makes it super easy to remove the bars and prevents them from sticking.
• Let Them Cool Completely: This is crucial! The filling needs time to set properly. Patience is key.
• Add a Streusel Topping: For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider adding a streusel topping to the bars before baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best bakers make mistakes sometimes! Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Soggy Crust: This can happen if the filling is too watery. Make sure to use the correct amount of cornstarch or tapioca starch to thicken the filling.
• Dry Crust: This can happen if you overbake the bars. Keep a close eye on them and tent with foil if needed.
• Uneven Baking: Ensure your oven is properly calibrated and that you’re using the correct baking temperature.
• Cutting Too Soon: As mentioned earlier, letting the bars cool completely is essential for a clean cut.

Delicious Variations to Try

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are a few fun variations to try:

• Strawberry Rhubarb: Add 1 cup of chopped strawberries to the rhubarb filling for a classic flavor combination. Check out my rhubarb-strawberry-crisp recipe for inspiration!
• Raspberry Rhubarb: As you can see from the recipe, adding raspberries enhances the flavor of the rhubarb.
• Ginger Rhubarb: Add 1 teaspoon of ground ginger to the rhubarb filling for a warm and spicy twist.
• Almond Rhubarb: Add 1/4 cup of sliced almonds to the crumb topping for a nutty crunch.
• Lemon Rhubarb: Enhance the lemon flavor by adding 1/2 teaspoon of lemon extract to the filling.

How to Store Your Rhubarb Bars

These bars are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

• Can I use frozen rhubarb? Absolutely! Frozen rhubarb works just as well as fresh rhubarb in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it slightly and drain any excess liquid before using.
• Can I use a different type of flour? While I haven’t tested it with other flours, you could try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just be sure to adjust the amount of liquid as needed.
• Can I make these bars dairy-free? Yes! Simply use a dairy-free butter substitute in the crust.
• Can I add other fruits to the filling? Of course! Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries all pair well with rhubarb.
• Can I reduce the amount of sugar? You can try reducing the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that it will affect the overall flavor and texture of the bars.

Serving Suggestions

These Gluten Free Rhubarb Bars are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to take them to the next level:

• With a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that’s always a hit.
• With a Dollop of Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy, and oh-so-delicious.
• With a Sprinkle of Powdered Sugar: A simple yet elegant touch.
• With a Cup of Tea or Coffee: Perfect for an afternoon treat.
• Warm with a drizzle of honey: A cozy and comforting dessert.

So there you have it! My Easy Gluten Free Rhubarb Bars recipe. I hope you love it as much as I do! Don’t forget to snap a picture of your creations and tag me on social media @LayasKitchen. Happy baking!

These bars are the perfect dessert if you are looking for something gluten free and delicious. The rhubarb bars are a delightful combination of sweet and tart. If you follow the recipe closely, the bars are sure to be a hit! The mixture of rhubarb and raspberries creates a wonderful flavor profile. The rhubarb itself provides a unique tang that is balanced by the sweetness of the raspberries. These bars are a great way to use up frozen rhubarb or fresh rhubarb. You can also adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. They’re perfect for tea or as a light dessert after dinner. The crust is crumbly and buttery, complementing the soft, fruity filling perfectly. You’re going to love these bars! The tapioca starch helps to thicken the filling, ensuring it’s not too watery. Make sure to line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. For about 35-40 minutes, the bars are baking until golden brown. Until it cools, resist the urge to cut into them immediately. The crust should be golden brown and the filling bubbly. For about minutes, let them cool completely before slicing. They’re best served chilled, so pop them in the fridge for up to an hour before serving. They’re a crowd-pleaser every time! The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on them. Let the bars cool completely to allow the filling to set properly. The bars are a delightful treat any time of year. The bars are sure to become a family favorite! They’re incredibly easy to make and always a hit. They’re the perfect balance of sweet and tart. They’re sure to impress your friends and family. These bars are a must-try for any rhubarb lover!