Description
These delightful bars combine a buttery shortbread crust, a tangy rhubarb layer, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a sweet crumble topping. Perfect for spring and summer desserts.
Ingredients
- For the crust: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- For the rhubarb layer: 3 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- For the cheesecake layer: 8 oz cream cheese, softened, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the crumble topping: 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed, 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry blender or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
- Make the rhubarb layer: In a separate bowl, toss the rhubarb with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Spread evenly over the crust.
- Make the cheesecake layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla, and beat until just combined. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the rhubarb layer, spreading gently to cover.
- Make the crumble topping: In a small bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, and oats. Cut in the butter until crumbly. Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the crumble is golden and the cheesecake is set (the center may jiggle slightly). Cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
- Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste. For extra zing, add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to the crumble topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Dessert
- Cuisine: American