Rhubarb Custard Bars are a delightful and tangy dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb with a creamy custard filling, all atop a buttery crust. These bars offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them a popular choice during rhubarb season. The crust provides a sturdy base, while the sweet custard and tangy rhubarb create a harmonious combination. Topped with a creamy and smooth cream cheese layer, these bars are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed year-round.

Rhubarb has a long history of culinary use, and its tart flavor is highly regarded in various dessert recipes. Rhubarb Custard Bars have roots in traditional rhubarb pie recipes, where the rhubarb is combined with a custard filling and baked to perfection.

Rhubarb itself has been cultivated for culinary purposes for centuries and has been enjoyed in various forms, including pies, jams, and desserts. It is often associated with springtime and early summer, as it is one of the first fruits to be harvested in many regions.

The addition of a buttery crust and a creamy topping made with cream cheese elevates the traditional rhubarb custard concept, creating a layered and decadent dessert experience. These bars have become a popular way to enjoy the unique flavor of rhubarb in a convenient and portable format.

Rhubarb Custard Bars are especially beloved in regions where rhubarb is plentiful, such as North America and parts of Europe. They are often prepared during rhubarb season, and their delightful combination of flavors has made them a favorite treat for many households.

PREP: 25 MIN. + CHILLING

BAKE: 50 MIN. + CHILLING

MAKES: 3 DOZEN

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 cup cold butter

FOR FILLING:

• 2 cups sugar
• 7 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 3 eggs, beaten
• 5 cups finely chopped fresh or frozen rhubarb, thawed and drained

FOR TOPPING: 

• 2 packages (3 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and sugar for the crust. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into a greased 13×9-inch baking pan. Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the sugar and flour for the filling. Whisk in the heavy whipping cream and beaten eggs until well combined. Stir in the finely chopped rhubarb. Pour the filling mixture over the pre-baked crust. Bake the bars in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes or until the custard is set. Allow the bars to cool completely.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is creamy and evenly incorporated. Spread this cream cheese topping over the cooled custard layer. Cover the pan and refrigerate the bars until chilled and set. Once chilled, cut the bars into desired shapes and sizes. Store the Rhubarb Custard Bars in the refrigerator.

NOTE:

• Rhubarb Custard Bars are best enjoyed chilled and can be served as a delightful dessert option for gatherings, potlucks, or as a special treat for rhubarb enthusiasts. The layers of flavors and textures in these bars, from the buttery crust to the tangy rhubarb custard and creamy cream cheese topping, create a truly delightful indulgence.