Rhubarb Crumble

Rhubarb Crumble is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of spring. With its vibrant, tart rhubarb filling enveloped in a crunchy, buttery topping, this dish is a true celebration of seasonal flavors. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, providing comfort and joy. The aroma of baking rhubarb mingled with butter and a hint of vanilla fills the air, inviting everyone to gather around the kitchen. This recipe is worth making not only for its delicious taste but also for the warm memories it creates with family and friends. It’s an easy-to-follow, step-by-step treat that is perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rhubarb Crumble is beloved for its simplicity and versatility. It requires minimal prep time, making it an excellent choice for busy home cooks. The ingredients are basic and often found in your pantry, saving both time and money. This dish is family-friendly, appealing to all ages with its sweet-tart flavor profile. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled, it is a traditional dessert that’s sure to please. Plus, it makes a great centerpiece for gatherings, bringing everyone together to share in its heavenly taste.

Ingredients for Rhubarb Crumble

To prepare this scrumptious Rhubarb Crumble, gather the following ingredients:

2 pounds rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces: The star of the show, rhubarb is tart, juicy, and brings a vibrant green and pink hue to your dish.
1 1/4 cups white sugar: This helps sweeten the tanginess of the rhubarb, balancing the flavors beautifully.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This is used in the filling to help thicken the juices released by the rhubarb.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adding a hint of warmth and sweetness to the filling.
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom: A fragrant spice that elevates the flavor profile with its unique aroma.
1 cup all-purpose flour (for topping): Creates the crumble’s base and texture.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the dish.
1 cup light brown sugar: Adds depth and caramel flavor to the topping.
8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter, cut into cubes: The key to a rich, crumbly topping with its melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. This sets the stage for perfectly baked rhubarb, making it juicy and tender.
Prepare the Rhubarb Filling: In a medium-sized bowl, mix the chopped rhubarb, white sugar, 1/4 cup of flour, vanilla extract, and ground cardamom. Stir until the rhubarb is well coated. Spoon this mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a delicious base.
Make the Topping: In a food processor, combine 1 cup of flour, salt, and brown sugar. Pulse these ingredients together until well mixed. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse again until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. Alternatively, in a bowl, mix the dry ingredients and use two knives or a pastry cutter to incorporate the butter.
Combine and Bake: Spread the crumble topping over the rhubarb mixture, ensuring all is covered. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the topping is a lovely golden brown.
Cooling Time: Once baked, let the crumble sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. This cooling period allows the filling to set up a bit. Serve warm, preferably with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an added indulgence.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Rhubarb Crumble, consider these chef’s secrets:

Freshness Matters: Choose fresh rhubarb for the best flavor. If you can find locally sourced options, that’s even better!
Mix It Up: Feel free to add other fruits like strawberries or apples for a flavor twist; this will enhance the sweetness and texture.
Add Oats: Incorporate rolled oats into the topping for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
Spice Variations: Experiment with other spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for different aromatic profiles.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Rhubarb Crumble is best enjoyed warm, paired with a scoop of rich vanilla ice cream that melts beautifully into the warm crumble. You might also consider serving it with whipped cream or a drizzle of heavy cream for luxurious indulgence. As a creative touch, sprinkle fresh mint leaves on top for color and hint of freshness. For a delightful afternoon tea, enjoy it with a cup of chai or a light herbal tea.

Nutritional Information

While the Rhubarb Crumble is undoubtedly a delicious treat, it’s also important to be mindful of portion sizes. One serving typically contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the topping used and additional pairings. The dish provides a decent source of dietary fiber from rhubarb, along with carbohydrates from the sugar and flour. Indulging occasionally can bring joy without sacrificing your wellness goals.

Storing Tips & Variations for Rhubarb Crumble

To ensure your Rhubarb Crumble remains fresh, store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be gently reheated in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave for a quick warm-up. If you want to make this recipe healthier, opt for whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour or consider using less sugar. For creative variations, try adding nuts or seeds to the crumble topping for added texture and richness.

Conclusion for Rhubarb Crumble

If you’re looking for a delightful, easy dessert that’s sure to impress, Rhubarb Crumble is the perfect choice. With its inviting aroma and beautiful flavors, it’s a dish that invites everyone to gather and enjoy. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and prepare to delight your taste buds with this delectable recipe. Give it a try today!

FAQs

Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?
Yes, frozen rhubarb works well! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The Rhubarb Crumble is ready when the filling is bubbling at the edges and the topping is golden brown.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and topping separately, refrigerate them, and assemble them right before baking.
What is the best way to serve leftover Rhubarb Crumble?
Serving leftover crumble warm is ideal. You can reheat it in the oven, and it’s delightful with a side of ice cream or cream!
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe for larger gatherings! Just ensure you use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time as necessary.

Rhubarb Crumble

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Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 60
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful dessert with a tart rhubarb filling and crunchy, buttery topping, perfect for spring.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Mix the chopped rhubarb, white sugar, 1/4 cup flour, vanilla extract, and ground cardamom in a bowl. Spoon this into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Combine 1 cup flour, salt, and brown sugar in a food processor; pulse until mixed. Add cold butter and pulse until crumbly.
Spread the crumble topping over the rhubarb mixture. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
Let the crumble cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.