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Classic Rhubarb Crisp with Crunchy Oat Topping

A spoonful of bright red, gooey rhubarb crisp filling and golden crumble topping being lifted from a white ramekin.

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This recipe bridges the gap between inspiration and accomplishment, giving you a simple, comforting dessert with tart rhubarb filling and a perfectly crunchy oat topping. It is designed for the home cook who wants reliable results without complex steps.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb fresh rhubarb, chopped into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on rhubarb tartness)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for topping)
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, and vanilla extract. Toss gently until the rhubarb is evenly coated.
  3. Pour the rhubarb mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
  4. In a separate bowl, prepare the topping. Combine the 1/2 cup flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients together.
  5. Cut the cold butter cubes into the dry topping mixture using a pastry blender or your fingertips. Work the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. Do not overmix.
  6. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the rhubarb filling in the baking dish. Press lightly, but do not pack it down.
  7. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the rhubarb filling is bubbling thickly around the edges.
  8. Remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set.
  9. Serve warm, perhaps with vanilla ice cream for a classic taste of home.

Notes

  • If you want a slightly more complex flavor, substitute 1/4 cup of the granulated sugar in the filling with maple syrup.
  • For an extra crunchy topping, add 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping mixture before cutting in the butter.
  • This dessert is excellent for showcasing fresh spring fruit, and it freezes well after baking.

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