So, what exactly are Amish Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars? The name might sound like a countryside secret passed down through generations—and maybe it is! These bars are a sweet, tart, and crumbly treat made with a buttery oatmeal crust and a rich rhubarb filling. While their exact origin might be uncertain, their appeal is universal. They’re comforting, hearty, and perfectly balanced in flavor. And yes, they live up to the age-old saying: “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Once you try them, you’ll understand why they’re loved by so many. Let’s get baking and experience that homemade magic yourself!
Why You’ll Love This
Here’s why Amish Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars deserve a spot in your recipe collection:
1. Sweet-Tart Flavor in Every Bite
The combination of tangy rhubarb and sweet oat crumble is a match made in dessert heaven. Each bite brings a burst of flavor with just the right balance of sweet and sour.
2. Budget-Friendly and Homemade
No need to spend money on store-bought desserts when you can make something this delicious at home with pantry staples.
3. Endlessly Adaptable
Add a drizzle of caramel, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even swap in other fruits like strawberries or apples. If you enjoy our Blueberry Oat Bars, these will hit the same cozy notes—with a tangy twist.
How to Make Amish Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars
Quick Overview
These bars are as easy to make as they are to devour. With just 10–15 minutes of prep and 25–30 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a tray of golden, bubbling goodness ready to cool and cut into delicious squares.
Ingredients
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1 cup rolled oats
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 cup brown sugar, packed
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1 tsp baking soda
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1 tsp salt
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1 cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 cup rhubarb, chopped
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 tbsp cornstarch
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat Oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper. -
Make the Oat Crust and Topping
In a large bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until crumbly. Reserve 1 cup of this mixture for topping. -
Press Base into Pan
Press the remaining oat mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form the crust. -
Mix the Rhubarb Filling
In a separate bowl, combine chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until the rhubarb is evenly coated. -
Assemble the Layers
Spread the rhubarb mixture over the oat crust. Crumble the reserved oat mixture evenly over the top. -
Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the rhubarb is bubbling. -
Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool completely before slicing. Serve as-is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
What to Serve Amish Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars With
Serve these bars warm or chilled—either way, they’re delightful! Try pairing with:
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A scoop of vanilla ice cream
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A dollop of whipped cream
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A drizzle of honey or caramel
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A hot cup of coffee, tea, or chai latte
They’re perfect for dessert, a weekend brunch, or an afternoon treat.
Top Tips for Perfecting
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Use Fresh or Frozen Rhubarb: Both work well! If using frozen, thaw and drain first to prevent excess moisture.
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Melted Butter Tip: Let your butter cool slightly before adding it to the oats to avoid cooking the mixture prematurely.
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Customize with Add-Ins: Try chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a pinch of cinnamon in the oat mixture for extra depth.
Storing and Reheating Tips
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
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Freezer: Freeze cut bars in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
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Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of rhubarb?
Yes! Try strawberries, apples, or a berry mix. Just adjust sugar depending on the fruit’s sweetness.
Are these bars gluten-free?
They can be! Substitute with gluten-free oats and all-purpose gluten-free flour.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just use a larger pan and increase bake time by 5–10 minutes, watching for a golden top and bubbling filling.
Conclusion
Amish Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars are the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. With their sweet-tart filling and buttery crumble, these bars bring cozy, nostalgic flavors to your table. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or just treating yourself, this easy recipe is sure to impress. So go ahead—give it a try and discover just how comforting homemade can be.
Amish Oatmeal Rhubarb Bars
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Pan
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup Rolled Oats
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 cup Brown Sugar packed
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter melted
Rhubarb Filling
- 1 cup Rhubarb chopped
- ½ cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly and well incorporated.
- Reserve about 1 cup of the oat mixture for the topping. Spread the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan and press down firmly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the rhubarb is coated.
- Spread the rhubarb mixture evenly over the oat crust in the baking pan.
- Crumble the reserved oat mixture on top of the rhubarb layer.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Allow to cool in the pan before cutting into bars. Enjoy!