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Rhubarb Butter – 5 Easy Steps to the Perfect Spread

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Rhubarb butter is a smooth, sweet-tart fruit spread made by slowly simmering fresh rhubarb with sugar until thick and velvety. This easy homemade recipe is perfect for toast, yogurt, baking, and freezing.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 2 cups 1x
  • Category: Spread
  • Method: Baking or Simmering
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and trim the rhubarb stalks, then chop into even pieces.
  2. Place chopped rhubarb, sugar, and water into a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rhubarb releases its juices and begins to soften.
  4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until the rhubarb is completely tender.
  5. Use an immersion blender (or carefully transfer to a blender) and puree until smooth.
  6. Return the puree to the saucepan and simmer on low heat for another 15–20 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.
  7. Stir in vanilla extract or cinnamon if using.
  8. Allow to cool completely before transferring to clean jars. Refrigerate or freeze for storage.

Notes

  • Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning during simmering.
  • If using frozen rhubarb, thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.
  • For a smoother texture, strain through a fine-mesh sieve before the final simmer.
  • The mixture thickens further as it cools, so avoid overcooking.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

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