Rhubarb Crumble is a classic British dessert made with tart rhubarb baked under a sweet, buttery crumble topping.
It’s warm, comforting, and super easy to make—perfect for spring and early summer when rhubarb is in season.
This is my go-to recipe when rhubarb season hits, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
It’s sweet, tart, and topped with the kind of golden crumble that makes you go back for seconds.
Why People Love It?
- No fancy tools or steps—just mix, sprinkle, bake, and enjoy.
- Great way to use up garden rhubarb.
- It’s sweet, tart, buttery, and comforting all in one bite.
How To Make Rhubarb Crumble?
Recipe Overview
This rhubarb crumble recipe is a simple and satisfying way to use fresh rhubarb. With a buttery oat topping and a tangy-sweet filling, it’s a no-fuss dessert that’s perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Dessert
• Difficulty: Easy
• Yield: 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: ~380 kcal
Equipment You’ll Need
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or spoon
• Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
For the filling:
• 2 pounds rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 6 cups)
• 1 1/4 cups white sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
•1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
For the crumble topping:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter, cut into cubes
Ingredient Notes
1. Rhubarb: Fresh rhubarb is best, but frozen rhubarb works too—just thaw and drain it well.
2. Flour: Regular all-purpose flour is all you need.
3. Oats: Quick oats give a soft crumble texture, while old-fashioned oats make it heartier.
4. Butter: Use cold butter to get that crumbly topping. I like cutting it in with my hands for better texture.
5. Sugar: White sugar sweetens the rhubarb layer, and brown sugar gives the topping a rich flavor.
Instructions
1. Prep the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.
2. Make the rhubarb layer: In a mixing bowl, toss together the diced rhubarb, white sugar, and 3 tablespoons of flour. Spread this evenly in the baking dish.
3. Make the crumble topping: In another bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and oats. Add in the cold butter and work it in with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Assemble: Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the rhubarb layer.
5. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the rhubarb is bubbling around the edges.
6. Cool slightly before serving: Let it sit for 10 minutes before digging in so the filling can thicken a bit.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
• Calories: ~380
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 36g
Tips and Variations
1. Add strawberries: Swap out 1 cup of rhubarb for strawberries to make a strawberry rhubarb crumble.
2. Make it nutty: Add chopped pecans or almonds to the crumble topping.
3. Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.
4. Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours.
5. Storage: Leftovers keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Serving Suggestions
1. With Custard: A warm slice with custard is always a hit.
2. With Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream on top melts into the crumble and makes it extra good.
3. With Whipped Cream: A little whipped cream adds a nice touch.
FAQ
How Do I Make A Rhubarb Crumble?
Start by layering sweetened rhubarb in a baking dish and top it with a buttery flour-oat mixture. Bake until golden and bubbly.
Is Rhubarb Sweet Or Sour?
Rhubarb is naturally very sour. That’s why it’s usually paired with sugar or sweeter fruits like strawberries.
What Is The Meaning Of Rhubarb Crumble?
It’s a classic dessert made of cooked rhubarb with a crumbly topping of flour, oats, butter, and sugar. It’s rustic, simple, and full of old-fashioned flavor.
Can I Use Frozen Rhubarb?
Yes, just thaw and drain it well before using.
What’s The Difference Between Rhubarb Crumble And Crisp?
They’re very similar, but crisps often include nuts or more oats in the topping.
Final Thoughts
I always look forward to rhubarb season just to make this rhubarb crumble. It’s easy, no mixer needed, and everyone loves it.
Give it a try and let me know how it goes! Got a question or a tip of your own? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear from you.
Rhubarb Crumble
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 2 pounds rhubarb cut into 1-inch pieces (about 6 cups)
- 1 1/4 cups white sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- •1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
For the crumble topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour divided
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 8 tablespoons 1 stick butter, cut into cubes
Instructions
- Prep the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.
- Make the rhubarb layer: In a mixing bowl, toss together the diced rhubarb, white sugar, and 3 tablespoons of flour. Spread this evenly in the baking dish.
- Make the crumble topping: In another bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and oats. Add in the cold butter and work it in with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble: Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the rhubarb layer.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the rhubarb is bubbling around the edges.
- Cool slightly before serving: Let it sit for 10 minutes before digging in so the filling can thicken a bit.
