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Rhubarb Crunch
Rhubarb Crunch is a comforting, old-fashioned dessert that balances the tartness of rhubarb with a sweet, buttery oat topping. Perfect for spring or early summer when rhubarb is in season, this recipe offers a satisfying texture and flavor reminiscent of a crisp or crumble. The handwritten recipe captures a nostalgic homemade charm, ideal for family gatherings or a casual sweet treat. The warm spices and vanilla-scented sauce over tangy rhubarb bring a timeless quality to this dish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 405 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup flour
  • ¾ cup oatmeal
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup shortening (melted )
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 4 cups rhubarb (diced )
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Instructions
 

Step 1: Make the Crumb Mixture

  • Combine flour, oatmeal, brown sugar, melted shortening, and cinnamon.
  • Stir until crumbly.

Step 2: Assemble the Base

  • Press half the crumb mixture into a greased 9" x 9" baking pan.
  • Top with diced rhubarb.

Step 3: Cook the Sauce

  • In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, vanilla, and cornstarch.
  • Cook over medium heat until thick and clear.

Step 4: Pour & Top

  • Pour the hot sauce over the rhubarb.
  • Top with the remaining crumb mixture.

Step 5: Bake

  • Bake at 350°F for 1 hour until golden and bubbly.

Tips

  • Substitute butter for shortening for richer flavor.
  • Add ½ tsp nutmeg or cardamom to the crumb mixture for extra warmth.
  • Mix strawberries with the rhubarb for a sweeter “strawbarb” version.
  • Use brown butter for deeper caramel notes.
  • Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble for crunch.
  • Replace half the oats with chopped coconut for a tropical twist.
  • Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or lightly sweetened whipped cream.
  • Double the topping and bake in a 9×13 pan for a crowd.
  • Use gluten-free oats and flour to make a gluten-free version.
  • Add a pinch of salt to enhance flavor complexity.

Nutrition

Calories: 405kcalCarbohydrates: 72gProtein: 2gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 2gSodium: 14mgPotassium: 233mgFiber: 2gSugar: 53gVitamin A: 63IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 104mgIron: 1mg
Keyword comfort food, handwritten recipe, heirloom recipe, old fashioned, rhubarb dessert, spring baking, vintage recipe
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