This Best Rhubarb Crisp is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a family gathering, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this crisp stands out with its delicious rhubarb filling and crunchy oat topping. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Filling
- For the Topping
- How to Make Best Rhubarb Crisp
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Step 3: Prepare the Topping
- Step 4: Bake Your Crisp
- Step 5: Serve
- How to Serve Best Rhubarb Crisp
- With Whipped Cream
- A La Mode
- With Fresh Berries
- Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- As Breakfast
- How to Perfect Best Rhubarb Crisp
- Best Side Dishes for Best Rhubarb Crisp
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Best Rhubarb Crisp
- Reheating Best Rhubarb Crisp
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen rhubarb?
- How do I know when my rhubarb is done baking?
- Can I customize the topping?
- How can I serve Best Rhubarb Crisp?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy bakers.
- Flavorful Contrast: The combination of sweet granulated sugar and tart rhubarb creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or cold with whipped cream for a delightful twist.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients at home, making it budget-friendly.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting taste and texture, this dish is sure to be a hit among friends and family.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making the Best Rhubarb Crisp, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8×8 inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- 8×8 inch baking dish: The perfect size for even baking of your crisp, allowing the filling to bubble while keeping the topping crunchy.
- Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling, providing enough space for tossing the rhubarb with sugar and flour.
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 throughout.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Toss together the rhubarb, granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
2. Ensure all pieces of rhubarb are thoroughly coated.
3. Transfer this mixture into your prepared 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. Mix until all ingredients are moistened.
4. Using your hands, break up the streusel into bite-sized pieces.
5. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the rhubarb filling.
Step 4: Bake Your Crisp
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven:
1. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is lightly browned.
2. Look for bubbling filling as an indicator that it’s ready!
Step 5: Serve
Let it cool slightly before serving:
– Enjoy warm or cold with some sweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired!
How to Serve Best Rhubarb Crisp
Best Rhubarb Crisp is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it warm or cold, there are numerous serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With Whipped Cream
- Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the tartness of the rhubarb.
A La Mode
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic touch. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm crisp.
With Fresh Berries
- Top your rhubarb crisp with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of caramel sauce elevates the dish, adding sweetness and richness to each bite.
As Breakfast
- Enjoy leftover rhubarb crisp as a breakfast treat. Pair it with yogurt for a tasty morning option.

How to Perfect Best Rhubarb Crisp
Achieving the perfect Best Rhubarb Crisp involves simple techniques that can elevate your dish. Here are some tips to ensure success:
-
Use Fresh Rhubarb: Fresh rhubarb provides the best flavor and texture. Choose firm stalks that are bright in color.
-
Adjust Sugar to Taste: Depending on your preference, you may want to adjust the sugar level. If your rhubarb is particularly tart, add more sugar.
-
Let It Cool: Allowing the crisp to cool slightly after baking helps set the filling and makes it easier to serve.
-
Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon is traditional, try adding nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist on flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Best Rhubarb Crisp
While Best Rhubarb Crisp is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the tart flavor of rhubarb.
- Sweetened Greek Yogurt: Offers a tangy contrast while providing protein; perfect for breakfast or brunch.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds color and balance, making for a light side.
- Coffee or Tea: Enjoying a warm drink alongside your crisp enhances relaxation during dessert time.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the crisp.
- Nutty Granola: Serve granola on top of yogurt or ice cream as a crunchy addition that pairs well with rhubarb flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the Best Rhubarb Crisp can be simple, but here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the rhubarb: Cooking the rhubarb too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on your crisp while baking.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors. Use a kitchen scale for precision when possible.
- Skipping the cinnamon: Cinnamon enhances the flavor of rhubarb. Don’t omit this key ingredient—it adds warmth and depth.
- Using cold butter for the topping: Melted butter helps create a crunchy streusel. Always use melted butter for optimal texture.
- Not letting it cool before serving: Allowing your crisp to cool slightly helps it set up better. This way, you’ll get nice portions instead of a gooey mess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Best Rhubarb Crisp
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating Best Rhubarb Crisp
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 30-60 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Best Rhubarb Crisp.
Can I use frozen rhubarb?
Yes, frozen rhubarb works well! Just ensure it’s thawed and drained before using in your crisp.
How do I know when my rhubarb is done baking?
The topping should be golden brown, and you’ll see bubbling around the edges. This indicates that your crisp is ready.
Can I customize the topping?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts or seeds for extra crunch or substitute oats with gluten-free options if needed.
How can I serve Best Rhubarb Crisp?
It’s delightful on its own or served warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Final Thoughts
The Best Rhubarb Crisp is a delicious blend of sweet and tart flavors, perfect as a dessert any time of year. Feel free to experiment with different toppings or add fruits like strawberries for a twist. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends!
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Best Rhubarb Crisp
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the Best Rhubarb Crisp, a delightful dessert that artfully balances sweet and tart flavors. This easy-to-make treat features a luscious rhubarb filling topped with a crunchy oat streusel, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. In just a few simple steps, you can create an irresistible dish that will impress family and friends alike. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cold with whipped cream for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this classic rhubarb dessert is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups rhubarb (cut into 1/2" chunks)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for the 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 mixing bowl, combine the rhubarb, granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon until well coated. Transfer to an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix flour, oats, and brown sugar. Add melted butter and stir until moistened. Crumble the mixture over the rhubarb filling.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until the topping is golden and the filling bubbles.
- Let 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 piece (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg