Creamy Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars

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Introduction

If you’re looking for a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between tart and sweet, these Creamy Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars are your answer. Each bite offers layers of flavor and texture: a buttery crust, a rich and smooth cream cheese filling, a vibrant rhubarb topping, and a golden oat crumb that brings it all together. These bars are ideal for spring and summer gatherings, showcasing the unique tang of rhubarb in a delicious and crowd-pleasing way.

Not only are they beautiful to serve, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, brunch, or just to treat yourself, these bars will become a seasonal favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Rhubarb Layer:

  • 2 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Crumb Topping:

  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
  • Pinch of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Make the Crust:
    In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the cubed cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
  3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
    While the crust bakes, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Once the crust is done, spread this mixture evenly over the warm crust.
  4. Assemble the Rhubarb Layer:
    In a separate bowl, toss the chopped rhubarb with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Evenly distribute this mixture over the cream cheese layer.
  5. Add the Crumb Topping:
    Combine the oats, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this topping generously over the rhubarb layer.
  6. Bake:
    Return the pan to the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
  7. Cool and Slice:
    Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper and slice into squares.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Conclusion

These Creamy Rhubarb Cream Cheese Bars are a celebration of contrast—tangy, sweet, creamy, and crisp all in one delightful treat. They bring a touch of homemade comfort with an elevated, bakery-worthy finish. Perfect for any spring table or afternoon indulgence, this dessert is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet cravings. Try them once, and they’ll become a go-to every rhubarb season.

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