Best Rhubarb Crisp
This Best Rhubarb Crisp is the perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors, making it an irresistible dessert for any occasion. With its crunchy oat topping and luscious rhubarb filling, it’s a delightful treat that appeals to both casual gatherings and special celebrations. This recipe is simple yet delicious, showcasing the unique qualities of rhubarb in a comforting dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This rhubarb crisp requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Delicious Flavor: The balance of sweet and tart in the rhubarb filling combines beautifully with the crunchy topping, offering a flavor sensation.
- Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it warm or cold, and pair it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With eight servings, this recipe is great for sharing with family and friends at parties or potlucks.
- Seasonal Delight: Use fresh seasonal rhubarb, adding a touch of nature’s goodness to your dessert table.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Best Rhubarb Crisp, having the right tools can simplify your cooking process. Here are some essential items you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8×8 baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- 8×8 baking dish: This size is perfect for even baking and ensures that your crisp cooks thoroughly.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling; different sizes can help manage various components of the recipe.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best texture and flavor in your crisp.
Ingredients
This incredible crisp is made with a sweet and tart rhubarb filling and it’s topped with a crunchy oat and brown sugar streusel.
For the Filling
- 4 cups (500g) rhubarb (cut into 1/2 chunks)
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp cinnamon
For the Topping
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (45g) rolled oats
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (114g) unsalted butter, melted
How to Make Best Rhubarb Crisp
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your crisp bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl:
1. Toss together the rhubarb, sugar, flour, and cinnamon until all pieces are well coated.
2. Transfer the mixture into an 8×8 baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In another bowl:
1. Mix together the flour, rolled oats, and brown sugar.
2. Pour in the melted butter.
3. Stir until all ingredients are moistened.
4. Using your hands, break up the mixture into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle it evenly over the rhubarb filling.
Step 4: Bake
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is lightly browned and you can see bubbling from the filling.
Step 5: Serve
Let it cool slightly before serving warm or cold. Top with sweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Best Rhubarb Crisp, a delightful dessert that brings warmth to any gathering!
How to Serve Best Rhubarb Crisp
Rhubarb crisp is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your Best Rhubarb Crisp experience.
With Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy whipped cream pairs beautifully with the tartness of rhubarb. A dollop on top adds creaminess and balance.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla ice cream is a classic choice. The cold, creamy texture contrasts perfectly with the warm crisp.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- For a sweet touch, drizzle caramel sauce over the top. It adds a rich flavor that complements the fruitiness of the rhubarb.
Served with Greek Yogurt
- For a healthier option, serve with a spoonful of Greek yogurt. Its tanginess works well with the sweet and tart elements of the dish.
Accompanied by Fresh Mint
- Garnish your serving with fresh mint leaves. This adds a pop of color and a refreshing hint that brightens up the dessert.

How to Perfect Best Rhubarb Crisp
To ensure your Best Rhubarb Crisp turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Choose fresh rhubarb: Select firm, vibrant stalks for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust sugar levels: Depending on your preference for sweetness, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the filling.
- Use cold butter: For an even crunchier topping, use cold butter when making the streusel mixture.
- Let it cool slightly: Allowing the crisp to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps set the filling for easier serving.
- Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover rhubarb crisp covered in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain freshness.
- Experiment with spices: Adding nutmeg or ginger can give your crisp an extra layer of flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Best Rhubarb Crisp
Rhubarb crisp is delicious on its own but can be complemented by certain side dishes. Here are some great options to consider serving alongside it.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses such as brie or goat cheese can provide a savory contrast.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with berries or citrus can refresh the palate between bites.
- Granola Parfait: Layer granola with yogurt and fresh fruit for a wholesome side dish that pairs well with dessert.
- Savory Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots or asparagus add a savory element that balances out sweetness.
- Nut Mix: A mix of nuts provides crunch and healthy fats, enhancing your meal’s overall nutrition.
- Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of lemon sorbet offers a zesty complement that cleanses the palate effectively.
- Pound Cake: Serve slices of pound cake as a hearty side that pairs well with any fruit-based dessert.
- Coconut Rice Pudding: The creaminess of rice pudding satisfies while also being subtly sweet, making it an excellent match for rhubarb crisp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the Best Rhubarb Crisp is a joy, but certain mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Using the wrong rhubarb: Make sure to use fresh, vibrant rhubarb. Avoid older, wilted stalks as they can affect the taste and texture.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Precision matters! Use a kitchen scale for accuracy, especially for sugar and flour.
- Skipping the cinnamon: Don’t underestimate this spice—cinnamon adds depth to the crisp. Always include it in your filling for that extra flavor boost.
- Overmixing the topping: When preparing the streusel, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense topping instead of a light and crunchy one.
- Not allowing it to cool slightly before serving: Patience pays off! Letting the crisp rest for a few minutes allows flavors to meld and makes serving easier.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
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- Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
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- Containers: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Freezing Best Rhubarb Crisp
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- Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
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- Containers: Wrap well in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating Best Rhubarb Crisp
- Oven: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warm throughout.
- Microwave: Heat individual servings for about 30-60 seconds or until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this the Best Rhubarb Crisp?
The combination of sweet and tart rhubarb, along with a perfectly crunchy oat topping, makes this recipe stand out. It’s simple yet incredibly satisfying.
Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before mixing it with other ingredients.
How can I customize my Best Rhubarb Crisp?
Feel free to add other fruits like strawberries or apples for added flavor. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger!
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
To make a gluten-free version of the Best Rhubarb Crisp, simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and topping separately ahead of time. Assemble them just before baking for best results.
Final Thoughts
The Best Rhubarb Crisp is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it warm on its own or top it with ice cream or whipped cream. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or spices. This delightful dessert is sure to bring joy to any gathering—give it a try!

Best Rhubarb Crisp
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Experience the delight of homemade Best Rhubarb Crisp, a dessert that harmoniously balances sweet and tart flavors. This recipe features tender rhubarb enveloped in a crunchy oat topping, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed cold with a dollop of whipped cream, this crisp is sure to please everyone at your table. Simple to prepare, this classic dessert showcases the unique qualities of fresh rhubarb, turning it into a comforting dish perfect for casual get-togethers or festive celebrations.
Ingredients
- 4 cups rhubarb (cut into 1/2" chunks)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for filling)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for topping)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine rhubarb, granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon until well mixed. Transfer to an 8×8" baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix together the topping ingredients: flour, oats, brown sugar, and melted butter until just combined. Sprinkle evenly over the rhubarb mixture.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm or cold.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg