Rhubarb Bread

Rhubarb Bread is the perfect combination of tart rhubarb and sweet, moist bread, making it a delightful treat for any time of the day. The buttermilk keeps the bread tender, while the cinnamon sugar topping adds a slight crunch that complements the softness of the loaf. Whether enjoyed warm with butter or as a quick snack, this bread is always a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for spring and summer baking, this Rhubarb Bread recipe makes great use of fresh rhubarb from the garden or farmer’s market. It’s an easy and rewarding bake that fills the kitchen with a comforting aroma and makes a wonderful gift or breakfast treat. If you love fruit-filled quick breads, this one will definitely become a favorite!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 1/4 cups brown sugar

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 1 egg

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 cups diced rhubarb

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, mix brown sugar, vegetable oil, egg, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

5. Fold in diced rhubarb and walnuts (if using).

6. Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan.

7. In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the batter.

8. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 240 kcal | Servings: 10 slices

Everything You Need to Know About Rhubarb Bread

Rhubarb Bread is a delightful and underrated quick bread that brings out the natural tanginess of rhubarb while balancing it with a moist, slightly sweet crumb. This recipe is an excellent way to make use of fresh rhubarb, especially during spring and early summer when the vegetable is in peak season. Whether you are an experienced baker or new to homemade breads, this simple and rewarding recipe is bound to become a favorite.

The Story Behind Rhubarb Bread

Rhubarb has been cultivated for centuries, primarily for medicinal purposes in ancient China before it found its way into culinary use. While rhubarb is technically a vegetable, it is most often treated as a fruit in baking and desserts. Its tart flavor makes it a natural fit for sweet treats, where sugar and spices help to create a balanced, vibrant taste. Quick breads like Rhubarb Bread became popular because they do not require yeast or long proofing times, making them an easy and efficient way to enjoy homemade baked goods. The combination of rhubarb and buttermilk in this recipe enhances the bread’s tenderness, while the cinnamon sugar topping adds a delicate crunch.

Why This Recipe is the Best

Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart

• Rhubarb’s natural tartness gives this bread a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other fruit-based breads. The brown sugar in the batter brings a caramel-like sweetness, while the cinnamon sugar topping provides an extra layer of depth.

Moist and Tender Texture

• The addition of buttermilk in the recipe ensures a soft, fluffy crumb. Buttermilk reacts with baking soda to create air pockets, leading to a light and tender texture.

Simple and Quick to Make

• Unlike yeast-based breads, this quick bread requires no kneading or proofing. Simply mix the ingredients, pour them into a loaf pan, and bake—making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.

Versatile and Customizable

• This bread can be easily adapted to personal taste. Add nuts, swap some of the rhubarb for strawberries, or sprinkle in some orange zest for a citrusy twist. The recipe is also great with a crumble topping instead of cinnamon sugar.

A Great Way to Use Fresh Rhubarb

• If you grow rhubarb or find it at a farmers’ market, this recipe is a great way to enjoy it without needing a pie or cobbler. Even if you have extra rhubarb, the bread can be made and frozen for later.

The Benefits of Baking Rhubarb Bread at Home

Healthier than Store-Bought Breads

• Homemade baked goods allow you to control the ingredients, reducing preservatives and artificial flavors often found in store-bought breads.

Naturally High in Fiber

• Rhubarb is a good source of dietary fiber, which supports digestion and promotes gut health. Combined with the fiber in flour and optional nuts, this bread is a wholesome choice.

A Great Way to Reduce Food Waste

• Since rhubarb has a short growing season, baking it into bread is a smart way to use it before it spoils. Additionally, it freezes well, so you can make batches ahead of time.

Brings Warmth and Comfort to Any Occasion

• Baking rhubarb bread fills the home with an irresistible aroma, making it perfect for family breakfasts, brunches, or afternoon coffee breaks. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and neighbors.

Tips for Making the Perfect Rhubarb Bread

Use Fresh, In-Season Rhubarb

• For the best flavor, choose rhubarb stalks that are firm and vibrant red. Avoid wilted or overly fibrous stalks.

Toss Rhubarb in a Little Sugar Before Adding

• This trick helps soften the rhubarb slightly and brings out its natural juices, ensuring it distributes evenly in the batter.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

• Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough bread. Stir the ingredients until just combined for a light and tender crumb.

Let the Bread Cool Before Slicing

• It can be tempting to cut into the bread right away, but letting it cool completely helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Ways to Enjoy Rhubarb Bread

• Warm with Butter: A slice of warm rhubarb bread with a pat of butter is a classic, comforting choice.
• With a Cup of Coffee or Tea: The tangy-sweet flavor pairs beautifully with your favorite hot beverage.
• Toasted with Cream Cheese: For an extra indulgent twist, try spreading cream cheese on a toasted slice.
• As a Dessert with Ice Cream: Serve a slice with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delightful treat.
• Made into French Toast: Leftover rhubarb bread can be transformed into a delicious breakfast by dipping slices in an egg mixture and pan-frying them.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhubarb Bread

Do I Need to Peel Rhubarb Before Using It?

• No, you don’t need to peel rhubarb unless the stalks are very thick and fibrous. Simply wash and chop it before adding it to the batter.

Can I Use Frozen Rhubarb?

• Yes! If using frozen rhubarb, let it thaw and drain excess liquid before adding it to the batter to prevent excess moisture.

How Long Does Rhubarb Bread Last?

• Rhubarb bread stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I Make This Bread Gluten-Free?

• Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for a gluten-free version of this bread.

What’s the Best Way to Store Rhubarb Bread?

• Wrap the bread in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. If freezing, slice it first so you can thaw individual pieces as needed.

Conclusion

Rhubarb Bread is a must-try for anyone who loves homemade baked goods with a unique twist. Its balance of sweet and tart flavors, soft texture, and ease of preparation make it one of the best quick bread recipes to have in your collection. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven, toasted with a bit of butter, or saved for a cozy breakfast, this bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. If you haven’t tried baking with rhubarb yet, this is the perfect recipe to start with!