If you’re on the lookout for an unmistakably cozy and delightfully tangy treat, then this Amish Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars Recipe is calling your name. These bars combine a perfectly crumbly oat crust with a luscious, slightly tart rhubarb filling that dances on your taste buds. What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and the nostalgic flavors that remind you of a warm kitchen filled with love and tradition. Whether for a family gathering or a comforting afternoon snack, these bars never fail to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Amish Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars Recipe lies in its humble yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial part in creating the luscious texture, balanced sweetness, and hearty crunch that define these bars.
- 2 cups rhubarb, chopped: Fresh rhubarb provides the signature tangy flavor and a vibrant splash of color.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the rhubarb filling perfectly, balancing its natural tartness.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the rhubarb mixture to keep it from getting too runny.
- 1 tablespoon water: Keeps the filling moist and smooth as it cooks down.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy base of the oat crust and topping.
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats: Adds a wonderful chewy texture and wholesome flavor.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings a rich, caramel note that complements the oats beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps lighten the crust for the perfect crumbly finish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, ensuring nothing tastes flat.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened: Essential for richness and a melt-in-your-mouth crumbly texture.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together while adding tenderness.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, inviting aroma that elevates the entire bar.
How to Make Amish Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This sets you up for an easy removal of those delicious bars later on.
Step 2: Cook the Rhubarb Filling
In a small saucepan, toss together the chopped rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the rhubarb softens and the mixture thickens after about 5 to 7 minutes. This is your luscious filling forming — set it aside to cool while you move on to the crust.
Step 3: Make the Crumbly Dough
Grab a medium bowl and combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Once mixed, add in the softened butter, the egg, and the vanilla extract. Mix everything until you get a crumbly yet cohesive dough — it’s the perfect texture for that signature oat crust and topping.
Step 4: Form the Crust
Press about two-thirds of your oat dough firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. This creates a sturdy, buttery base that will hold all the scrumptious filling without collapsing.
Step 5: Add the Rhubarb Layer
Spread the cooled rhubarb filling evenly over the crust. This layer is the heart of your bars, offering sweet and tangy notes that burst in each bite.
Step 6: Top It Off
Sprinkle the remaining oat dough evenly on top of the rhubarb layer. This crumbly topping will bake to golden perfection, giving you that wonderful textural contrast to the luscious filling below.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the top is beautifully golden brown and you can see the filling bubbling merrily under the crumble.
Step 8: Cool Completely and Cut
This is a key step you don’t want to skip! Let your bars cool completely right in the pan before cutting them into squares. This helps the filling set perfectly so the bars hold their shape and slice beautifully.
How to Serve Amish Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Add a light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of fresh whipped cream to highlight the rustic charm of these bars. A few fresh mint leaves can also brighten up the presentation, making each bite even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. The contrast between the warm bars and the cold ice cream or hot drink makes for a cozy and satisfying dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve the bars on a wooden board with fresh rhubarb stalks and oat clusters scattered around. You can also cut the bars into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a festive platter for gatherings, making them easy to share and impossible to resist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keeping them fresh ensures every bite remains just as delightful as the first.
Freezing
Want to enjoy these delicious bars later? Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy days.
Reheating
When you’re ready to indulge, thaw the bars at room temperature and reheat briefly in a warm oven (around 300°F) for about 10 minutes. This brings back that lovely fresh-baked aroma and texture without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I substitute frozen rhubarb for fresh in this Amish Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen rhubarb works well, just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking to keep your filling from becoming too watery.
Is it okay to use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?
While quick oats can be used in a pinch, old-fashioned rolled oats provide a better texture with more chew and structure, making them ideal for this recipe.
How can I make these bars less sweet?
You can reduce the sugar in the rhubarb filling or the brown sugar in the crust slightly, but be mindful that reducing them too much might affect both texture and flavor balance.
What makes this recipe “Amish”? Are there any traditional aspects?
This recipe reflects the simplicity and heartiness associated with Amish cooking, relying on straightforward ingredients and homestyle preparation that yields comfort and nostalgia.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Yes, doubling the ingredients and baking in a larger pan works well. Just adjust the baking time slightly, checking for the golden top and bubbling filling as your cues.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about an Amish Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars Recipe that brings warmth and simple joy to your kitchen. With its perfect balance of tangy rhubarb and crumbly oat goodness, it’s a treat worth making often and sharing widely. So go ahead, bake a batch, and enjoy the cozy, sweet satisfaction that only these bars can bring.
Print
Amish Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
These Amish Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars are a delightful treat combining a sweet and tangy rhubarb filling with a buttery, crumbly oat crust and topping. Perfect for a wholesome dessert or snack, they offer a comforting blend of textures and flavors baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Rhubarb Filling
- 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Oatmeal Crust and Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Cook Rhubarb Filling: In a small saucepan, combine the chopped rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the rhubarb is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool completely.
- Mix Oatmeal Crust and Topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the dough becomes crumbly and well combined.
- Form the Crust: Press about two-thirds of the oat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a firm crust layer.
- Spread Rhubarb Layer: Spread the cooled rhubarb filling evenly over the crust, ensuring it covers the surface completely.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the rhubarb filling to form a crumbly top layer.
- Bake the Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the rhubarb filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to set properly before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy this delightful dessert!
Notes
- Make sure the rhubarb filling is completely cooled before spreading it over the crust to prevent it from soaking into the crust.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal of the bars from the pan and cleaner slicing.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- You can substitute the butter with a vegan alternative to make the bars dairy-free, but the texture may slightly change.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the oat mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Amish, American
