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Tangy Rhubarb Custard Bars with Crunchy Saltine Crust

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These tangy rhubarb custard bars feature a surprising crunchy saltine cracker crust paired with a smooth, creamy custard filling. Perfect for spring and summer, they offer a bright, fresh flavor with a comforting twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups crushed saltine crackers (about 60 crackers)
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Crush saltine crackers finely using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and rolling with a rolling pin.
  3. Mix crushed saltines with melted butter and 1/3 cup sugar until combined.
  4. Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan.
  5. Bake the crust for 10 minutes or until golden and fragrant. Avoid overbaking to prevent bitterness.
  6. While the crust bakes, chop rhubarb into 1/2-inch pieces.
  7. In a large bowl, whisk together rhubarb, 1 1/2 cups sugar, eggs, flour, vanilla extract, and salt until incorporated.
  8. Pour the filling over the hot crust immediately after removing it from the oven.
  9. Bake for 45-50 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until the custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
  10. Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Chill for best results.

Notes

Use fresh rhubarb for best texture and flavor. Pre-bake the crust to prevent sogginess. Chill bars before slicing for cleaner cuts. Bars freeze well; thaw overnight in the fridge. For gluten-free, substitute gluten-free crackers and flour. For dairy-free, use plant-based butter alternatives. Vegan adaptation possible by replacing butter and eggs with vegan substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: rhubarb bars, custard bars, saltine crust, tangy dessert, spring dessert, easy dessert, homemade bars

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/tangy-rhubarb-custard-bars-recipe-easy-homemade-crunchy-saltine-crust/