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Do you ever find yourself needing a little pick-me-up, something that satisfies your sweet tooth without making you feel guilty later? That's how these Rhubarb Wellness Bars came about. A friend of mine, always on the hunt for healthier snack options, mentioned she’d been experimenting with rhubarb, a vegetable that, let's be honest, doesn't always get the love it deserves. But after tasting her initial attempts, I was hooked! The tartness of the rhubarb, balanced with just the right amount of sweetness and the wholesome goodness of oats and nuts, makes these bars incredibly addictive and surprisingly healthy.
Rhubarb, with its vibrant pink stalks, isn't just pretty; it's also a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Pairing it with oats and nuts turns these bars into a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy any time of the day. Whether you're looking for a pre-workout boost, an afternoon snack, or a healthy dessert option, these Rhubarb Wellness Bars fit the bill. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make. I've tweaked the recipe over time, and I think I've finally nailed it, so I'm thrilled to share it with you!
Seriously. I recall a time when I messed up and added baking powder instead of baking soda, resulting in a crumbly mess. But dont you worry, Ive specified everything in the Instructions. So let's dive into how you can bring these delightful treats to life in your own kitchen. It's a baking experience you won't regret, and your taste buds will thank you for it!
Required Equipments
9x13 inch baking pan
Large mixing bowl
Small mixing bowl
Whisk
Electric mixer
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Rhubarb Wellness Bars: A Zesty Treat for Your Day: Frequently Asked Questions
Rhubarb Wellness Bars: A Zesty Treat for Your Day
Bake these chewy Rhubarb Wellness Bars for a sweet and tangy snack, perfect for boosting your energy levels any time of day. Packed with wholesome ingredients, these bars are a delightful way to enjoy the unique flavor of rhubarb.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:16 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. Lining the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, will make removing the bars later much easier.
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly distributed. No one likes a clump of baking soda!
In a separate, smaller bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, softened, with 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is important for creating a tender bar.
Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Ensure the eggs are fully incorporated for a smooth batter.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can lead to tough bars. The batter will be thick.
Gently fold in 2 cups of chopped fresh rhubarb and 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans (optional). Distribute the rhubarb and nuts evenly throughout the batter.
Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking pan. A flat-bottomed measuring cup or spatula can help you achieve a uniform surface.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them – every oven is different!
Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cooling them completely prevents them from crumbling when you cut them.
Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Although, I bet they won't last that long!
Enjoy your homemade Rhubarb Wellness Bars! They're the perfect blend of tart, sweet, and wholesome.
📝 Notes
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free rolled oats and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
If you don't have fresh rhubarb, you can use frozen rhubarb, but thaw it first and drain any excess liquid.
Feel free to add other mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut.
These bars are best enjoyed within 3 days of baking, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.