STRAWBERRY RHUBARB CRUMB BARS

Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars are a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors, with a buttery, crumbly base and topping. The vibrant strawberry and rhubarb filling provides the perfect balance of sweetness and tang, while the buttery, oat-infused crumble topping adds a satisfying crunch. These bars are perfect for a summer dessert, picnic treat, or a comforting snack with a cup of tea. The simple ingredients and easy-to-follow method make these crumb bars a great way to enjoy the classic strawberry-rhubarb flavor in a convenient, handheld form.

Ingredients:

For the filling:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
• 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the crust and topping:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the fruit softens, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
3. Make the Crust and Topping: In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Assemble the Bars: Press about 2/3 of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Spread the strawberry-rhubarb filling evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the top of the filling, covering it with a crumbly layer.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before slicing into squares.
6. Serve: Once cooled, slice into squares or bars and serve. These Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars are perfect for a sweet treat on a warm day, and they also store well for a few days in an airtight container.

These Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars are the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb, combined with the buttery, crumbly topping, make for a delicious and comforting dessert that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy any craving.