Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese

A sunny afternoon filled with the sweet and tart aroma of baking rhubarb bars is an enchanting experience. These Rhubarb Bars with Cream Cheese are not only simple to make but also deliciously satisfying, taking just over an hour from start to finish. The balance of the creamy topping against the tart rhubarb creates an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress at potlucks, family gatherings, or simply enjoy a delightful dessert at home. They can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making them an excellent option for busy bakers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The buttery oat crust provides a delightful crunch that complements the soft rhubarb layer.
• The cream cheese topping adds a smooth and rich finish that perfectly balances the tartness of the rhubarb.
• Preparing the filling on the stovetop intensifies the rhubarb’s flavor, resulting in a deliciously thick mixture.
• These bars are easy to cut into squares, making them perfect for serving at parties or events.

What You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward ingredients that you may already have on hand.

For the Crust

• 1 cup butter, melted
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar

For the Filling

• 2 cups chopped rhubarb
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Topping

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Use high-fat cream cheese for the best texture.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
• Substitute granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
• Any type of fruit can replace rhubarb, like strawberries or apples.
• Gluten-free flour can be used in place of all-purpose flour.

How to Make It

Prepare these tasty bars with a few simple steps.

Preheat oven

Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 baking dish. Greasing the dish will ensure easy removal of the bars.

Mix crust ingredients

Combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.

Cook filling

Cook rhubarb, granulated sugar, and cornstarch in a saucepan over medium heat until thick. Stir in vanilla extract and remove from heat.

Spread filling

Spread the rhubarb mixture evenly over the baked crust. Bake for another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and set.

Beat cream cheese

Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and creamy.

Spread topping and chill

Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled rhubarb bars. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set.

Cut into squares

Once chilled, cut into squares and serve, enjoying the beautiful layers of flavor.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Yes, these freeze well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Thaw in the fridge overnight and enjoy cold or at room temperature.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing and a smooth finish.
• Adjust the sugar based on the tartness of your rhubarb for the perfect balance.
• Allow bars to cool completely before adding the cream cheese topping for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these bars with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.