This Rhubarb Crisp is the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining sweet and tart flavors that everyone will love. With juicy rhubarb paired with a buttery oat topping, it’s an irresistible treat. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy night in, this crisp shines. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and can be made with fresh or frozen rhubarb, making it an adaptable choice for your baking needs.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- How to Make Rhubarb Crisp
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Rhubarb Filling
- Step 3: Make the Topping
- Step 4: Bake
- How to Serve Rhubarb Crisp
- With Vanilla Ice Cream
- Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Topped with Whipped Cream
- Served with Fresh Berries
- As a Breakfast Treat
- Accompanied by Tea or Coffee
- How to Perfect Rhubarb Crisp
- Best Side Dishes for Rhubarb Crisp
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Rhubarb Crisp
- Reheating Rhubarb Crisp
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen rhubarb for this Rhubarb Crisp?
- What can I serve with Rhubarb Crisp?
- How do I know when my Rhubarb Crisp is done baking?
- Can I customize this Rhubarb Crisp recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dessert in no time.
- Flavorful Combination: The unique blend of sweet and tart from the rhubarb makes every bite delightful.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or add spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual weeknight treat, Rhubarb Crisp fits right in.
- Served Warm: Enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Rhubarb Crisp, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking pan: A good-quality pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden brown top.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to mix ingredients separately without mess.
- Pastry cutter: This tool makes blending butter into dry ingredients easier, resulting in a crumbly topping.
Ingredients
To make this scrumptious Rhubarb Crisp, you will need the following ingredients:
- 5 cups rhubarb (frozen or fresh, chopped (about 600g))
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150g)
- 1/4 cup corn starch
- 1/2 cup butter (cold, cubed)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (lightly packed)
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (or sub all purpose) (65 g)
How to Make Rhubarb Crisp
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Rhubarb Filling
In a large bowl:
1. Stir together the chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, and corn starch.
2. If using fresh rhubarb, use only 2 tablespoons of corn starch instead of 1/4 cup.
3. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking pan.
Step 3: Make the Topping
In another large bowl:
1. Combine butter, brown sugar, rolled oats, and whole wheat flour.
2. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands to mix until crumbly.
3. Spread this mixture evenly over the rhubarb layer in the pan and press down lightly.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for about 35-40 minutes until the topping is golden brown and edges are thick and bubbly. Let sit for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Now you have a delightful Rhubarb Crisp ready to enjoy! Serve it warm with ice cream for an unforgettable dessert experience that everyone will love.
How to Serve Rhubarb Crisp
Rhubarb Crisp is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
With Vanilla Ice Cream
- Adding a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on top of warm Rhubarb Crisp creates a delicious contrast of temperatures and flavors.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A light drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the sweet-tart profile of the crisp, offering an extra layer of indulgence.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Light and airy whipped cream pairs perfectly with the rich topping, adding a lovely texture to each bite.
Served with Fresh Berries
- Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries can add freshness and additional natural sweetness to the dish.
As a Breakfast Treat
- Leftover Rhubarb Crisp can be enjoyed for breakfast. Serve it warm with yogurt for a quick and tasty morning meal.
Accompanied by Tea or Coffee
- Enjoying Rhubarb Crisp alongside a cup of tea or coffee makes for a comforting afternoon snack or dessert option.

How to Perfect Rhubarb Crisp
To achieve the best Rhubarb Crisp, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh rhubarb provides the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure it is properly thawed and drained.
- Adjust Sugar Levels: Depending on your taste preference, feel free to adjust the sugar levels. More sugar will enhance sweetness, while less keeps it tart.
- Use Cold Butter: Using cold butter helps create a crumbly topping that bakes up nicely. Avoid letting it sit out too long before mixing.
- Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on your crisp while baking; it should be golden brown on top and bubbling around the edges for perfect results.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the crisp to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps set it, making it easier to serve.
- Experiment with Spices: Adding cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance flavors in your Rhubarb Crisp for an extra aromatic touch.
Best Side Dishes for Rhubarb Crisp
Rhubarb Crisp is versatile enough to pair well with several side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt complements the sweetness of the crisp beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of Rhubarb Crisp and adds a burst of color.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory contrast, making for an exciting flavor pairing.
- Granola: Serving granola on the side offers a crunchy texture that complements the soft rhubarb.
- Scones: Lightly sweetened scones make for a delightful addition, perfect for brunch settings involving Rhubarb Crisp.
- Chai Tea: The spices in chai tea pair wonderfully with this dessert’s flavors, creating a cozy combination.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Rhubarb Crisp can be simple, but there are common mistakes that many make. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.
- Using too much cornstarch – Adding too much can make the filling too thick. Stick to the recommended amount, especially if using fresh rhubarb.
- Skipping the butter chilling step – Cold butter is crucial for a crumbly topping. Make sure it’s cubed and chilled before mixing.
- Not letting it cool before serving – Serving hot from the oven can lead to a messy dish. Allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes for better texture.
- Overbaking or underbaking – Keep an eye on the baking time. You want a golden brown topping and bubbly edges, so adjust your time accordingly.
- Ignoring ingredient quality – Fresh or high-quality rhubarb will greatly enhance the flavor of your crisp. Choose the best ingredients you can find.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Rhubarb Crisp
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Rhubarb Crisp
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm. Be cautious not to overheat.
- Stovetop – Place in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen rhubarb for this Rhubarb Crisp?
Yes, frozen rhubarb works well! Just remember to adjust the cornstarch if using fresh rhubarb instead.
What can I serve with Rhubarb Crisp?
Rhubarb Crisp pairs wonderfully with ice cream, whipped cream, or even yogurt for a delightful treat.
How do I know when my Rhubarb Crisp is done baking?
Look for a golden brown topping and bubbling edges; this usually indicates it’s ready!
Can I customize this Rhubarb Crisp recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor variations.
Final Thoughts
This Rhubarb Crisp is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed cold, it’s sure to impress. Experiment with different toppings or mix-ins to make it your own!
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Rhubarb Crisp
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Rhubarb Crisp, a classic dessert that combines sweet and tart flavors in every bite. This easy-to-make recipe features juicy rhubarb enveloped by a buttery oat topping, creating a comforting treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 5 cups rhubarb (fresh or frozen, chopped)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup corn starch
- 1/2 cup cold, cubed butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, and corn starch. Pour into the prepared baking pan.
- In another bowl, mix butter, brown sugar, rolled oats, and whole wheat flour until crumbly. Spread over the rhubarb filling.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and bubbly around the edges. Let cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (approx. 180g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg