27 Simple Rhubarb Recipes to Make at Home

Posted on June 15, 2024

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Rhubarb, with its vibrant color and uniquely tart flavor, is a culinary gem that often goes underappreciated. This versatile ingredient can transform any dish into a delightful experience, whether you’re crafting a comforting dessert or a refreshing beverage.

Imagine the joy of biting into a warm rhubarb crisp or sipping on a cool rhubarb lemonade on a sunny afternoon. With rhubarb’s ability to complement both sweet and savory flavors, the possibilities are endless.

Dive into these simple rhubarb recipes and discover how this humble stalk can elevate your cooking to new heights.

Key Takeaways:

Versatility: Rhubarb can be used in a wide range of recipes, from desserts and beverages to savory dishes.
Seasonal Delight: Making the most of rhubarb season allows you to enjoy fresh, locally grown produce at its peak flavor.
Simplicity: These recipes are easy to prepare, making it simple for anyone to incorporate rhubarb into their culinary repertoire.

Simple Rhubarb Recipes

1. Rhubarb Crisp

Rhubarb crisp is a beloved dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb with a sweet, buttery oat topping. Originating in the United States, this dish is a simpler alternative to pie. The basic ingredients include chopped rhubarb, sugar, flour, oats, butter, and a touch of cinnamon.

Bake until the topping is golden brown and the rhubarb is tender. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat.

2. Rhubarb Pie

Rhubarb pie is a classic American dessert that showcases the unique flavor of rhubarb. The filling is made with fresh rhubarb, sugar, and a thickening agent like cornstarch or tapioca.

Encased in a flaky pie crust, this dessert is both sweet and tart. To add a twist, you can mix in strawberries or apples. Bake until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly. Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

3. Rhubarb Compote

Rhubarb compote is a simple and versatile recipe that can be used as a topping for yogurt, pancakes, or ice cream. This dish originated in Europe and is made by simmering rhubarb with sugar and a bit of water until it breaks down into a thick sauce.

You can add vanilla, ginger, or citrus zest for extra flavor. Store in the refrigerator and use it to add a burst of tartness to your favorite dishes.

4. Rhubarb Muffins

Rhubarb muffins are a delightful way to enjoy rhubarb for breakfast or as a snack. These moist and fluffy muffins are made with chopped rhubarb, flour, sugar, eggs, and a hint of vanilla. The tartness of the rhubarb pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the muffin batter.

You can add a streusel topping for extra crunch. Bake until golden brown and enjoy warm with a pat of butter.

5. Rhubarb Jam

Rhubarb jam is a simple and delicious way to preserve the flavors of spring. This jam is made by cooking rhubarb with sugar and lemon juice until it reaches a thick, spreadable consistency. You can add strawberries or ginger for a unique twist.

Once the jam has cooled, store it in sterilized jars and enjoy it on toast, scones, or as a filling for pastries.

6. Rhubarb Crumble

Rhubarb crumble is similar to rhubarb crisp but features a more crumbly topping made from flour, butter, and sugar. This dessert is popular in the UK and is a comforting way to enjoy rhubarb.

The filling is made with chopped rhubarb, sugar, and a bit of cornstarch. Bake until the topping is golden and the rhubarb is bubbling. Serve with custard or ice cream for a comforting treat.

7. Rhubarb Cake

Rhubarb cake is a moist and flavorful dessert that highlights the tartness of rhubarb. This cake is made with a simple batter of flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, with chopped rhubarb folded in. You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.

Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a glaze before serving.

8. Rhubarb Sauce

Rhubarb sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. This sauce is made by simmering rhubarb with sugar and water until it breaks down into a smooth consistency.

You can add vanilla, ginger, or citrus zest for extra flavor. Use rhubarb sauce as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or grilled meats. Store in the refrigerator and enjoy throughout the week.

9. Rhubarb Chutney

Rhubarb chutney is a savory condiment that pairs well with meats, cheeses, and sandwiches. This chutney is made by cooking rhubarb with onions, vinegar, sugar, and spices like ginger, mustard seeds, and cloves.

The result is a tangy and slightly sweet chutney with a complex flavor profile. Store in sterilized jars and use it to add a burst of flavor to your meals.

10. Rhubarb Sorbet

Rhubarb sorbet is a refreshing and light dessert that’s perfect for warm weather. This sorbet is made by cooking rhubarb with sugar and water, then pureeing the mixture and freezing it in an ice cream maker.

The tartness of the rhubarb is balanced by the sweetness of the sugar, creating a bright and refreshing treat. Serve in chilled bowls or cones for a delightful dessert.

11. Rhubarb Galette

Rhubarb galette is a rustic French pastry that showcases the beauty of rhubarb. This free-form tart is made with a simple pastry dough, filled with sliced rhubarb, sugar, and a bit of flour.

Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and bake until the crust is golden and the rhubarb is tender. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

12. Rhubarb Bread

Rhubarb bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack. This bread is made with chopped rhubarb, flour, sugar, eggs, and a touch of vanilla. The tartness of the rhubarb is balanced by the sweetness of the batter.

You can add nuts or a streusel topping for extra texture. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Enjoy slices warm with a bit of butter.

13. Rhubarb Bars

Rhubarb bars are a delicious and portable dessert that’s perfect for picnics or potlucks. These bars are made with a buttery shortbread crust, topped with a tangy rhubarb filling, and finished with a crumbly streusel topping.

The filling is made by cooking rhubarb with sugar and a bit of cornstarch until thickened. Bake until the topping is golden and the filling is set. Cool before slicing into bars.

14. Rhubarb Ice Cream

Rhubarb ice cream is a creamy and refreshing dessert that highlights the unique flavor of rhubarb. This ice cream is made by cooking rhubarb with sugar and a bit of water, then pureeing the mixture and mixing it with a custard base.

Freeze in an ice cream maker until smooth and creamy. The tartness of the rhubarb is balanced by the richness of the custard, creating a delightful treat.

15. Rhubarb Lemonade

Rhubarb lemonade is a refreshing and tangy beverage perfect for hot summer days. This drink is made by simmering chopped rhubarb with sugar and water until it breaks down into a syrup.

Strain the mixture and combine the rhubarb syrup with freshly squeezed lemon juice and cold water. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves. The tartness of the rhubarb pairs beautifully with the citrusy lemonade, creating a thirst-quenching drink.

16. Rhubarb Scones

Rhubarb scones are a delightful treat for breakfast or afternoon tea. These scones are made by folding chopped rhubarb into a buttery dough, which is then cut into wedges or rounds. The dough is typically made with flour, sugar, baking powder, butter, and cream or buttermilk.

Bake until golden brown and serve warm with clotted cream or a dollop of rhubarb jam. The tartness of the rhubarb adds a lovely contrast to the rich and tender scones.

17. Rhubarb Pavlova

Rhubarb pavlova is a stunning dessert that combines the crispiness of meringue with the tartness of rhubarb. This dish is named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova and is popular in Australia and New Zealand.

The meringue base is made by whipping egg whites with sugar until stiff peaks form, then baking until crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Top with whipped cream and a rhubarb compote made from simmered rhubarb and sugar. The result is a light and airy dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious.

18. Rhubarb Custard Tart

Rhubarb custard tart is a creamy and tangy dessert that’s perfect for showcasing fresh rhubarb. This tart features a buttery pastry crust filled with a rich custard made from eggs, cream, and sugar, with chopped rhubarb folded in.

Bake until the custard is set and the rhubarb is tender. The tartness of the rhubarb balances the sweetness of the custard, creating a harmonious and elegant dessert.

19. Rhubarb Fool

Rhubarb fool is a traditional British dessert that’s both simple and delicious. This dish is made by folding stewed rhubarb into whipped cream, creating a light and airy treat.

The rhubarb is cooked with sugar until it breaks down into a thick compote, which is then chilled before being mixed with the whipped cream. Serve in individual glasses and garnish with a sprig of mint or a sprinkle of crushed biscuits for added texture.

20. Rhubarb Cheesecake

Rhubarb cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert with a tangy twist. This cheesecake features a graham cracker crust, a smooth cream cheese filling, and a rhubarb topping. The topping is made by cooking rhubarb with sugar and a bit of water until it reaches a jam-like consistency.

Once the cheesecake has cooled, spread the rhubarb topping over the top and chill until set. The tartness of the rhubarb complements the richness of the cheesecake, creating a delightful dessert.

21. Rhubarb Pancakes

Rhubarb pancakes are a delicious way to start your day with a burst of flavor. These pancakes are made by folding chopped rhubarb into a basic pancake batter made from flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, and milk.

Cook on a hot griddle until golden brown and serve with maple syrup or a dollop of rhubarb compote. The tartness of the rhubarb adds a unique twist to the classic pancake, making breakfast extra special.

22. Rhubarb Salsa

Rhubarb salsa is a fresh and tangy condiment that’s perfect for pairing with grilled meats or fish. This salsa is made by combining diced rhubarb with red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of honey.

The result is a bright and flavorful salsa with a balance of tart, sweet, and spicy notes. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos, grilled chicken, or seafood.

23. Rhubarb Smoothie

Rhubarb smoothie is a refreshing and nutritious drink that’s perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. This smoothie is made by blending cooked rhubarb with yogurt, honey, and a splash of orange juice.

You can also add other fruits like strawberries or bananas for extra sweetness. The tartness of the rhubarb is balanced by the creaminess of the yogurt, creating a delicious and healthy beverage.

24. Rhubarb Cobbler

Rhubarb cobbler is a comforting dessert that’s perfect for showcasing fresh rhubarb. This dish features a sweet and tart rhubarb filling topped with a biscuit-like dough.

The filling is made by combining chopped rhubarb with sugar and a bit of cornstarch, while the topping is made from flour, sugar, baking powder, and butter. Bake until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic treat.

25. Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake

Rhubarb upside-down cake is a visually stunning and delicious dessert. This cake features a layer of caramelized rhubarb on the bottom, topped with a moist and fluffy cake batter. The rhubarb is cooked with sugar and butter until it forms a caramel-like layer, then the cake batter is poured over the top.

Bake until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Invert the cake onto a serving plate to reveal the beautiful rhubarb topping. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

26. Rhubarb Meringue Pie

Rhubarb meringue pie is a delightful twist on the classic lemon meringue pie. This pie features a tart rhubarb filling topped with a fluffy meringue. The filling is made by cooking rhubarb with sugar and a bit of cornstarch until thickened, then pouring it into a pre-baked pie crust.

The meringue is made by whipping egg whites with sugar until stiff peaks form, then spreading it over the rhubarb filling. Bake until the meringue is golden brown. The combination of tart rhubarb and sweet meringue is a match made in heaven.

27. Rhubarb Shortcake

Rhubarb shortcake is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of shortcake. This dish features a tender shortcake biscuit topped with stewed rhubarb and whipped cream.

The shortcake is made from flour, sugar, baking powder, butter, and cream, while the rhubarb is cooked with sugar until it forms a thick compote. Split the shortcakes and fill with the rhubarb compote and a dollop of whipped cream. The result is a delicious and elegant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.