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Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars

Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars with Crunchy Oat Topping Delight

These Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful dessert featuring a creamy filling, tangy rhubarb, and a crunchy oat topping.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 9 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 2 cups Rhubarb, chopped Substitute with strawberries or mixed berries if desired.
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
  • 1 cup Sugar Adjust to taste.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract Opt for pure vanilla.
For the Crumble Topping
  • 1 cup Old-Fashioned Oats Use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version.
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar Can be replaced with coconut sugar.
  • 1/4 tsp Salt Enhances flavors.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, melted Use dairy-free alternative if desired.
  • 1 tbsp Cornstarch Thickens the rhubarb layer.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice Brightens flavor of rhubarb.

Equipment

  • Baking pan
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, salt, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Pour in melted unsalted butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside about 1/3 of the mixture for the topping.
  2. Line an 8x8 or 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and press 2/3 of the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
  3. In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until fully smooth and creamy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing gently until just combined.
  4. In another bowl, toss the chopped rhubarb with additional sugar, cornstarch, and fresh lemon juice. Let this sit for a few minutes.
  5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust in the pan. Layer the prepared rhubarb mixture on top, distributing it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture over the rhubarb.
  6. Return the assembled bars to the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 45 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for the best texture. Allow adequate chilling time before slicing for cleaner cuts.

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