3 Ingredient Rhubarb Squares Recipe
Looking for an easy, fuss-free dessert that celebrates the tart, tangy flavor of rhubarb? These 3 Ingredient Rhubarb Squares are the perfect sweet-and-sour treat with minimal effort. Whether you’re a baking beginner or just short on time, this recipe delivers a deliciously simple dessert with a buttery crust and a vibrant rhubarb filling. Plus, it’s a great way to use up fresh rhubarb when it’s in season!
Rhubarb has been a staple in pies and desserts for centuries, especially in Europe and North America, where its sharp flavor balances beautifully with sugar. These squares skip the complicated steps—no custards or fancy techniques—just three basic ingredients and a crowd-pleasing result. Bonus: rhubarb is low in calories and packed with fiber, vitamin K, and antioxidants!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless: Only 3 ingredients and no mixer required.
- Versatile: Works with fresh or frozen rhubarb.
- Perfect texture: Buttery crust with a soft, jammy rhubarb layer.
- Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for potlucks, picnics, or afternoon tea.
3 Ingredient Rhubarb Squares Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh rhubarb, finely chopped (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste; can sub with coconut sugar)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (or margarine for a dairy-free option)
- Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix rhubarb and sugar: In a bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb and sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out the juices.
- Add melted butter: Pour the melted butter into the rhubarb mixture and stir until fully combined.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.
- Cool & slice: Let it cool completely in the pan (about 1 hour) before cutting into squares. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Recipe Notes
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 mins | 40 mins | 50 mins | 9 squares |
Nutritional Info (per square)
- Calories: 220
- Carbs: 24g
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Fiber: 1g
Tips for Perfect Rhubarb Squares
- Do use fresh rhubarb for the best texture, but frozen works in a pinch (just drain excess liquid).
- Don’t overbake—the squares should be slightly soft in the center when removed from the oven.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle a handful of oats or chopped nuts on top before baking.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use less sugar in this recipe?
Yes! If you prefer a tarter flavor, reduce the sugar to ¾ cup. Rhubarb is naturally very sour, so adjust to your taste.
Can I add strawberries to the rhubarb squares?
Absolutely! A classic combo—replace half the rhubarb with chopped strawberries for a sweeter twist.
Why did my squares turn out soggy?
This usually happens if the rhubarb was too watery (common with frozen rhubarb). Pat it dry before mixing, or bake for an extra 5 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
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