Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup cold salted butter
- 16 ounces softened cream cheese
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh chopped rhubarb
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix the flour and powdered sugar, cut in cold salted butter until crumbly, and press the mixture evenly into the pan.
- Bake the crust about 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth, then add eggs and vanilla and mix just until combined.
- Toss chopped rhubarb with lemon juice and gently fold into the cream cheese mixture.
- Pour the filling over the warm crust and bake 30–35 minutes until the center is set but still slightly soft.
- Let the squares cool completely, then refrigerate at least 2 hours before slicing.
Notes
Use cream cheese softened to room temperature for a smooth filling., Avoid overmixing eggs to maintain a creamy texture., Chop rhubarb into small pieces for even flavor and easier eating., Slice with a sharp knife, wiping it clean after each cut for neat edges., Always line pan with parchment paper for easy removal and to keep bars intact., Substitute fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries; drain thawed frozen fruit well to prevent sogginess., Try different crusts like graham cracker or almond meal for variation., Reduce sugar for less sweetness, noting texture changes may occur., Add crumbly streusel topping or swirl in fruit jam for extra flavor and appearance., Store bars in airtight container in fridge up to 4 days; freeze individual squares up to 2 months., To serve, let bars come to room temperature or warm briefly in microwave or oven.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: Approximately 280 calories per serving (estimate)
- Fat: 15 grams per serving (estimate)
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams per serving (estimate)
- Protein: 7 grams per serving (estimate)