Rhubarb Cheesecake Dream Bars: A Sweet and Tangy Delight

Introduction

If you're looking for a dessert that beautifully balances tartness and sweetness, these Rhubarb Cheesecake Dream Bars are just what you need. Combining the bold, tangy flavor of rhubarb with the creamy richness of cheesecake, these bars are a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you're preparing them for a spring picnic, a summer BBQ, or simply as a weekend indulgence, these bars are sure to impress.

I first made these Rhubarb Cheesecake Dream Bars after discovering a bounty of rhubarb at the farmer's market. The vibrant color and tangy flavor of rhubarb have always intrigued me, and pairing it with a creamy cheesecake seemed like the perfect way to highlight its unique taste. After a few trials, this recipe was born, and it quickly became a family favorite.

What's great about this recipe is its simplicity. The ingredients are straightforward, and the steps are easy to follow. Even if you're not an experienced baker, you'll find that these bars come together beautifully. Plus, the combination of flavors is simply irresistible!

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe

Rhubarb Cheesecake Dream Bars

Brief Description

These Rhubarb Cheesecake Dream Bars feature a buttery crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a tangy rhubarb topping. Perfect for those who love the contrast of sweet and tart flavors, these bars are an ideal dessert for spring and summer gatherings.

Ingredients List

• For the Crust:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• For the Cheesecake Layer:
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Rhubarb Topping:
• 3 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Substitutions

If you don't have rhubarb on hand, you can substitute it with strawberries or a combination of strawberries and rhubarb. For a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour in the crust with a gluten-free flour blend. If you're dairy-free, try using a plant-based cream cheese and vegan butter for the crust.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture forms a dough. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool.
3. Prepare the cheesecake layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.
4. Make the rhubarb topping: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped rhubarb, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the rhubarb is soft and the mixture has thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Let the mixture cool slightly before spooning it over the cheesecake layer.
5. Bake the bars: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set and the edges are slightly golden. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes (total for crust, cheesecake layer, and topping)
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serving Suggestions

These Rhubarb Cheesecake Dream Bars make 12-16 servings, depending on how large you cut the squares. They are best enjoyed chilled, so after they've cooled, you can refrigerate them for a few hours for an even more refreshing treat. Serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent finish. They're also lovely with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Nutritional Information

Each bar (based on 16 servings) contains approximately:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 3g

Storage and Reheating

Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They taste even better after a day or two as the flavors meld together. You can also freeze the bars for up to a month—just make sure to wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy them again, let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours. Since the bars are best served chilled, no reheating is necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen rhubarb?

Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb if fresh is not available. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess liquid before using it in the recipe. The cooking time for the topping may be slightly shorter when using frozen rhubarb, so keep an eye on it.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These Rhubarb Cheesecake Dream Bars are a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare them the day before your event and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. They also freeze well, so you can make them well in advance and thaw them when needed.

What can I use as a substitute for rhubarb?

If you can't find rhubarb or prefer a different fruit, strawberries are a great substitute. You can also try a mix of berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

These Rhubarb Cheesecake Dream Bars are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the creaminess of cheesecake. The buttery crust adds a perfect crunch to every bite, making these bars a well-balanced dessert that's sure to please any crowd. Whether you're making them for a springtime picnic or a summer barbecue, they're sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.

We hope you enjoy making these bars as much as we do! If you give this recipe a try, be sure to share your thoughts and variations in the comments below. And don't forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious dessert recipes and kitchen inspiration!