There’s something incredibly magical about rhubarb season. Every spring and early summer, my grandmother’s garden would burst with those bright ruby-red stalks, signaling it was time to dust off her beloved recipe for Rhubarb Crunch. This dessert is the perfect marriage of tart rhubarb and a buttery, oat-studded topping a simple, rustic treat that tastes like pure comfort.
I remember standing beside her as she chopped the rhubarb into crisp little pieces, filling the kitchen with that unmistakable fresh scent. When that bubbling, golden crunch came out of the oven, it was impossible to wait for it to cool! A generous scoop of vanilla ice cream was always a must.
Today, I’m honored to share this timeless Rhubarb Crunch recipe with you a true classic that deserves a spot at every family gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Rhubarb Crunch
- Easy to Make: No special techniques or equipment needed!
- Fresh & Seasonal: Perfect for spring and summer when rhubarb is abundant.
- Comforting Flavors: The tart rhubarb perfectly balances the sweet, buttery oat topping.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A great dessert for potlucks, BBQs, and Sunday dinners.
Ingredients for Rhubarb Crunch
For the Rhubarb Base:
- 4 cups fresh rhubarb, diced (about 5–6 stalks)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Crunch Topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar (lightly packed)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Tip: Always taste your rhubarb! Some stalks are sweeter, some are sharper. Adjust sugar slightly if needed.
How to Make Rhubarb Crunch
Prep the Rhubarb
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and dice the rhubarb into ½-inch pieces.
- Toss rhubarb with 1 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons flour in a large bowl until well coated.
Layer the Base
- Spread the rhubarb mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish (lightly greased).
Make the Crunch Topping
- In another bowl, mix together oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Stir in the melted butter until crumbly and combined.
Assemble
- Sprinkle the crunch topping evenly over the rhubarb layer.
Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the rhubarb is bubbly around the edges.
Serve
- Let cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Tips for the Perfect Rhubarb Crunch
- Fresh vs. Frozen Rhubarb: You can use frozen rhubarb no need to thaw, just add an extra tablespoon of flour to the base.
- Add Strawberries: For a twist, swap in 1 cup of sliced strawberries for a sweet, strawberry-rhubarb version.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dessert up to a day in advance and rewarm gently in the oven.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free oats and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend!
Serving Ideas for Rhubarb Crunch
Pair your Rhubarb Crunch with:
- Vanilla bean ice cream for a decadent treat.
- Greek yogurt for a slightly tangy, healthier option.
- Fresh mint sprigs for a pop of color and flavor.
It’s also delightful at breakfast with a cup of strong coffee no judgment here!
Health Benefits of Rhubarb
Believe it or not, rhubarb isn’t just tasty it’s healthy too! Rhubarb is:
- Rich in fiber, aiding digestion
- High in vitamin K, important for bone health
- Loaded with antioxidants, which fight free radicals
Just keep in mind that rhubarb leaves are toxic always use the stalks only!
Rhubarb Crunch FAQs
Can I freeze Rhubarb Crunch?
Absolutely! After baking and cooling, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven.
How do I store leftovers?
Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven.
My rhubarb is very tart! What can I do?
Simply increase the sugar by ¼ cup if you prefer a sweeter dessert.
Final Thoughts
There’s a timeless charm in a dessert like Rhubarb Crunch. It’s a dish that connects generations simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Whether you enjoy it warm with a melty scoop of ice cream or sneak bites cold from the fridge, it’s pure, rustic happiness in every bite.
Try this at your next gathering and watch how quickly it disappears and don’t be surprised if someone asks for Grandma’s secret recipe.