Strawberry Rhubarb Bars are a delicious combination of tangy rhubarb and sweet strawberries layered between a buttery crust and a creamy topping. This recipe highlights the classic pairing of strawberries and rhubarb, making it a favorite dessert for spring and summer gatherings. The crisp crust, fruity filling, and luscious cream topping make these bars irresistible.

Strawberry Rhubarb Bars

The strawberry-rhubarb combination is such a great one, I can’t get enough of it in the spring. We make a great Strawberry Rhubarb jam every year that doesn’t even make it through the summer most years. Something about homemade jam just makes my kids (and the adults in the house too) go a little jam-crazy.

What is funny though is that even though rhubarb has been a common ingredient that’s been readily available to me my whole entire life, I’ve never really had it outside of a jam.

We get together with the family almost every week for a giant family dinner that is regularly 17+ strong when it is all said and done. It is one of my favorite parts of the week, and we always find ways to try out new things and whip out some old favorites for feeding such a large crew.

Strawberry Rhubarb Bars are a classic dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of strawberries, all layered over a buttery crust and topped with a rich cream layer. These bars are perfect for showcasing seasonal fruit and offer a refreshing twist to traditional fruit desserts. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a crowd-pleaser and a must-try for any dessert enthusiast.

Try our Homemade Hostess Cupcakes!

Strawberry Rhubarb Bar shopping list

Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here’s the list of items you’ll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

• Flour
• Salted Butter
• Granulated Sugar
• Diced Rhubarb
• Chopped Strawberries
• Flour
• Sugar
• Milk
• Large Eggs
• Powdered Sugar
• Cream Cheese, softened
• Heavy Whipping Cream
• Vanilla

Have some Strawberry Shortcake!

How to make Strawberry Rhubarb Bars

 This recipe is unique because it is actually baked twice! First, you bake the crust, and then you bake the filling AND the crust. A few tips to make sure YOUR dessert is the best it can be:

• Make sure your cream cheese is room temperature! If you don’t, it’ll end up lumpy and no one likes that!
• Don’t over-bake the crust! Remember it is going to bake again.
• COOL the baked things completely before topping it with the cream cheese topping.

These bars are made with a shortbread crust, which is one of my very favorite things IN the world.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Combine flour, butter, and sugar until well blended. Pat the mixture into a prepared 9×13-inch pan. Bake for 15 minutes and let it cool for 15 minutes.
2. Make the Filling: Mix together diced rhubarb, chopped strawberries, flour, sugar, milk, and eggs. Pour the mixture over the cooled crust. Bake for 40 minutes at 350°F. Let it cool completely.
3. Prepare the Topping: Combine powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, and vanilla. Spread this mixture over the cooled fruit layer.
4. Chill: Keep the bars chilled until ready to serve to ensure the topping sets properly.
5. Serve: Cut into bars and enjoy the combination of flavors and textures.

Have a Strawberry Lemon Drop!

FAQ

How should I store Strawberry Rhubarb Bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness.

Can I reheat these bars?

Reheating is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the cream topping. Serve chilled for the best experience.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the bars a day in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until you are ready to serve.

What variations or substitutions can I try?

You can substitute the strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

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More great strawberry recipes to love!

Strawberry Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette

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Strawberry Vodka Sparkler

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