Ah, Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars! Just saying the name brings back such sweet memories. I remember the first time I tried these delightful treats at my grandmother’s house. She had a garden filled with vibrant rhubarb, and every spring, she’d whip up a batch of these delicious bars that were nothing short of magical. The combination of the tart rhubarb with the sweet, buttery oats became an absolute favorite of mine. Every bite is like a little burst of sunshine, and it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones, or sneaking a piece all to yourself on a quiet afternoon!
What I adore about these bars is not just the flavor but also the ease of preparation. It’s like homemade comfort all wrapped up in a portable, easy-to-eat package. Plus, it’s a great way to use rhubarb when it’s in season, and it always feels good to make something from scratch. So, let’s dive into the wonderful world of Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars!
## What’s in Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars?
– **Oats:** You can’t have oatmeal bars without oats! I prefer old-fashioned rolled oats for a chewy texture, but quick oats will work in a pinch. They help provide that delightful base.
– **Rhubarb:** The star of the show! Fresh rhubarb brings an irresistible tartness that balances the sweetness of the bars. If you can find local rhubarb, even better; it adds a lovely splash of freshness.
– **Brown Sugar:** This is where we get that rich, caramel-like sweetness. It also helps keep the bars moist. I use light brown sugar for a softer flavor.
– **Butter:** Oh, the importance of butter! It gives the crust that lovely, buttery richness. I go for unsalted to have better control over the sweetness.
– **Flour:** A little all-purpose flour helps bind everything together. You can also use whole wheat flour if you’re looking for a nuttier flavor and extra goodness.
– **Baking Powder:** Just a pinch of this helps the bars rise a little, giving them a pleasing texture.
– **Salt:** A touch of salt enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness and tartness perfectly.
– **Cinnamon:** A sprinkle of cinnamon adds warmth and a hint of spice to these bars. It’s like a cozy hug in each bite!
## Is Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars Good for You?
Absolutely! While we can’t exactly call these health food, there are indeed some perks to indulging in Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars.
**Oats:** These wonderful grains are packed with soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and keep you feeling full longer. Plus, they’re a great source of necessary vitamins and minerals.
**Rhubarb:** Low in calories and high in vitamins K and C, rhubarb adds a tart punch that’s as good for you as it is delicious. It’s also high in antioxidants, which are fantastic for your overall health.
**Butter and Sugar Considerations:** Of course, these bars do have butter and sugar, so moderation is key! You could experiment with some alternatives like coconut oil or a different sweetener, but I like to keep it classic for that nostalgic flavor.
## Ingredients List
For about 12 servings, here’s what you’ll need:
– **1 ½ cups rolled oats**
– **1 cup diced fresh rhubarb**
– **1 cup brown sugar**
– **½ cup unsalted butter (melted)**
– **1 cup all-purpose flour**
– **1 tsp baking powder**
– **½ tsp salt**
– **1 tsp ground cinnamon**
Now, let’s get cooking!
## How to Make Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars?
1. **Preheat your oven** to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. You can line it with parchment paper for easy removal, too!
2. **In a large bowl,** combine the **oats, brown sugar, flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.** Mix it all together until well combined.
3. **Add the melted butter** to the dry mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated. The mixture should be crumbly but stick together when pressed.
4. **Reserve about one cup** of this mixture and press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will be the crust.
5. **Spread the diced rhubarb** evenly over the crust.
6. **Crumble the reserved oat mixture** over the top of the rhubarb, covering it well.
7. **Bake in the preheated oven** for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
8. **Allow it to cool** in the dish before slicing into bars. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
## A Little Extra Magic
Feel free to get creative! You can add a handful of nuts or substitute half of the flour with almond flour for a different texture. If you want to spice things up, consider adding a touch of vanilla extract or some grated citrus zest to the mixture for an extra zing!
I swear these Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars are a dream come true, and I just know you’ll love them too. They’re perfect as a midday snack, a sweet treat after dinner, or even for breakfast alongside your coffee. After trying these, I would love to hear your thoughts! So get your aprons on, and let’s make some delightful memories in the kitchen!
