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Rhubarb Custard Crumble Bars – The Best Easy Recipe

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Rhubarb Custard Crumble Bars are sweet and tangy dessert squares made with a buttery crust, creamy custard filling, and golden crumble topping. Perfect for spring gatherings and make-ahead treats.

  • Author: Catherine
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12–16 bars 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust and crumble)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 3 cups chopped fresh rhubarb
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (for custard filling)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, 3/4 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Press two-thirds of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
  5. Bake the crust for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden, then remove from oven.
  6. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and 1 cup sugar until smooth.
  7. Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and cornstarch. Whisk until fully combined.
  8. Fold in chopped rhubarb gently.
  9. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the warm crust.
  10. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly on top.
  11. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set with a slight jiggle.
  12. Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.

Notes

  • Chill completely before slicing for clean squares.
  • If using frozen rhubarb, do not thaw fully before mixing.
  • Add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch if rhubarb is very juicy.
  • Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Flavor improves after resting overnight.

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