Description
Delight in the tangy and creamy combination of these Rhubarb Custard Bars, a classic American dessert perfect for spring. With a buttery crust topped by a luscious rhubarb custard filling, this easy-to-make treat is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress guests.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
For the filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 4 cups chopped fresh rhubarb
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even baking.
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix 2 cups all-purpose flour and ¾ cup powdered sugar. Incorporate 1 cup cold, cubed unsalted butter by cutting it into the dry mixture with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake the crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the crust turns lightly golden. This par-baking ensures a firm base for the custard filling.
- Make the custard filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together 4 large eggs, 2 cups granulated sugar, ¼ cup all-purpose flour, and ½ teaspoon salt in a large bowl until smooth. Stir in 1½ cups heavy cream, then gently fold in 4 cups chopped fresh rhubarb to evenly distribute.
- Combine and bake: Pour the custard and rhubarb mixture over the hot crust. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top turns lightly golden.
- Cool and chill: Remove from oven and allow to cool completely. For clean-cut bars, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into 12 bars. This cooling step helps the custard firm up for perfect portions.
Notes
- For a sweeter finish, dust the cooled bars with powdered sugar before serving.
- You can substitute part of the rhubarb with strawberries for a milder, sweeter flavor and added color.
- Store the bars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep them fresh.
