Rhubarb Cheesecake Squares

Rhubarb Cheesecake Squares are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. They combine the tartness of rhubarb with the creamy texture of cheesecake, all nestled in a crumbly oat crust. These delicious squares make for an excellent dessert to serve at parties, family gatherings, or just to enjoy at home with a cup of tea or coffee.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Rhubarb Cheesecake Squares is a wonderful way to use fresh rhubarb. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also yields a scrumptious dessert that everyone will love. The layers of creamy cheesecake, sweet-tart rhubarb, and crunchy topping create a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Plus, this dessert can be made in advance, making it perfect for busy days when you want something special without too much effort.

How to Make Rhubarb Cheesecake Squares

To create these delicious Rhubarb Cheesecake Squares, follow these simple steps.

Ingredients:

5 cups chopped rhubarb
3/4 cup sugar
1 tbsp water
3 tsp cornstarch
16 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
1/2 cup icing sugar
1 egg
1 cup butter
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup oats
3/4 cup brown sugar
A pinch of salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper and set it aside.
In a saucepan, mix the chopped rhubarb, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat for about 8 minutes until the rhubarb is tender. Add the cornstarch and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Set it aside to cool.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, icing sugar, and egg together until smooth.
In another large bowl, crumble the butter, flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt together until it resembles coarse crumbs. Press half of this crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Add the chopped walnuts to the remaining crumb mixture.
Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly. Then, pour the cooled rhubarb mixture on top. Finally, sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture with walnuts over the rhubarb, pressing it lightly.
Bake for about 30 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the cheesecake is set.
Allow to cool completely before slicing. Store the squares in the refrigerator.

How to Serve Rhubarb Cheesecake Squares

These Rhubarb Cheesecake Squares are best served chilled. You can enjoy them straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat. For an added touch, top each square with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream before serving. They are perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a sweet pick-me-up after dinner.

How to Store Rhubarb Cheesecake Squares

To keep your Rhubarb Cheesecake Squares fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze individual squares. Just thaw them in the fridge before serving.

Tips to Make Rhubarb Cheesecake Squares

Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
You can adjust the amount of sugar based on your sweetness preference and the tartness of the rhubarb.
If you’re unsure about how tart your rhubarb is, taste a small piece before adding sugar to the mixture.

Variation

Feel free to add different nuts, such as pecans or almonds, for a unique twist. You can also replace the rhubarb with other fruits like strawberries or blueberries to create a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use frozen rhubarb instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb. Just thaw it and drain excess liquid before using it in the recipe.
What can I serve with Rhubarb Cheesecake Squares?
These squares pair well with whipped cream, ice cream, or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
How do I know when the cheesecake is set?
It should be firm to the touch and lightly golden on top. If you gently shake the pan, the center should not jiggle.

Enjoy making and sharing these delightful Rhubarb Cheesecake Squares with friends and family!