Rhubarb Coffee Cake is a perfect blend of sweet and tart, offering a refreshing contrast in flavor. This cake brings together the natural tartness of rhubarb with a sweet, buttery crumb topping that makes it an irresistible treat.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 eggs
1 ¼ cups sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sour cream
2 ½ cups fresh rhubarb, chopped (can use frozen, defrosted)

For the Crumble Topping:

1 cup white granulated sugar
¼ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup unsalted butter
1 tablespoon cinnamon

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, combine eggs, sugar, baking soda, salt, flour, and sour cream. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth, about 1 minute.
Add Rhubarb: Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb using a spoon or spatula.
Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
Make the Crumble Topping: In a medium bowl, mix together sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Cut in the butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Add Topping: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the batter in the pan.
Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (1 slice):

Calories: 295 kcal
Carbohydrates: 60g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 39mg
Sodium: 228mg
Potassium: 138mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 38g
Vitamin A: 235 IU
Vitamin C: 2 mg
Calcium: 62 mg
Iron: 1 mg

The Appeal of Rhubarb in Baking

Rhubarb is a unique vegetable often mistaken for a fruit, and its distinct tangy flavor can brighten up many types of baked goods, including pies, crumbles, and cakes. It’s also an ingredient that is often in season during the spring and early summer, making it a perfect addition to many seasonal recipes. However, rhubarb is not just for pies. It pairs wonderfully with other ingredients in baking, such as cinnamon, sugar, and butter, which is why it makes such a great addition to coffee cake.

The slightly tart flavor of rhubarb contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cake and the buttery crumble topping, adding complexity to the overall taste. Rhubarb’s high water content ensures that the cake remains moist, and when baked, it softens beautifully, blending seamlessly with the batter. The result is a cake that is light, fluffy, and full of flavor.

The Versatility of Coffee Cakes

Coffee cakes are an incredibly versatile type of cake, and they have become a staple at many gatherings, whether it’s for breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or even as a dessert. The name “coffee cake” may suggest that it’s meant to pair perfectly with coffee, but in reality, coffee cakes come in a variety of forms. They can be made with different fruits, nuts, and even chocolate, providing endless variations for every taste. The beauty of coffee cakes lies in their adaptability, allowing bakers to experiment with different flavors and textures.

Rhubarb coffee cake is a perfect example of how this classic dessert can be elevated with fresh, seasonal ingredients. By incorporating rhubarb, you’re adding a delightful tartness that complements the traditional sweetness of a coffee cake. This cake can be served in numerous ways: it’s great for a cozy breakfast with a cup of tea, or as a dessert at a family dinner.

Why You Should Try Rhubarb Coffee Cake

There are several reasons why you should give rhubarb coffee cake a try. First, the combination of rhubarb and cinnamon is a flavor pairing that can’t be beaten. The sweet, cinnamon-infused crumble topping contrasts wonderfully with the tartness of the rhubarb, creating a cake that has both depth and complexity. Secondly, rhubarb is rich in nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, which makes it a healthy addition to your baking repertoire.

Moreover, rhubarb is incredibly easy to work with in baking. It requires very little preparation – just chopping it into small pieces and incorporating it into the batter. While fresh rhubarb is widely available during the spring and summer months, frozen rhubarb can be a good option if you want to enjoy this coffee cake all year long. Using frozen rhubarb doesn’t compromise the taste or texture of the cake, so you can enjoy this dessert no matter the season.

Another reason to try rhubarb coffee cake is that it’s simple yet impressive. While the recipe may not require advanced baking skills, the end result is a beautiful, homemade cake that will wow your guests. The crumble topping gives it a professional finish, and the soft, moist cake underneath is perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. Plus, the rhubarb gives it a slightly unique twist compared to other traditional coffee cake recipes.

Health Benefits of Rhubarb

Rhubarb is often celebrated for its health benefits. This vegetable is low in calories, making it a great option for those who are mindful of their calorie intake. Additionally, it is high in fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and helps to regulate blood sugar levels. The high fiber content also contributes to the cake’s moist texture. Rhubarb is also packed with antioxidants, which are essential for fighting free radicals in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Furthermore, rhubarb is a great source of vitamin K, which plays a crucial role in bone health, blood clotting, and overall cell growth. It also contains a good amount of vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and promotes skin health. While baking with rhubarb may slightly reduce its vitamin C content, it still retains many of its nutritional benefits.

Perfect Pairings for Rhubarb Coffee Cake

Rhubarb coffee cake is delicious on its own, but there are several ways to elevate the experience by pairing it with other items. If you want to enjoy it for breakfast or brunch, serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait. The sweetness of the fruit salad and the creaminess of the yogurt will balance the tartness of the rhubarb and provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake.

For a cozy afternoon snack, pair the rhubarb coffee cake with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a cappuccino. The warm beverage will enhance the flavor of the cake and create the perfect comforting atmosphere. If you’re serving this cake as a dessert after dinner, consider pairing it with a light dessert wine or a glass of chilled prosecco. The effervescence of the prosecco will cut through the richness of the cake and cleanse the palate.

How to Store Rhubarb Coffee Cake

One of the best things about rhubarb coffee cake is that it keeps well for several days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or entertaining. To store the cake, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh for a longer period, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days.

If you prefer to enjoy the cake later, you can also freeze it. Simply wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Rhubarb coffee cake is a wonderful dessert that brings together the best of spring and summer flavors. The tartness of rhubarb, combined with the sweetness of the cake and the buttery crumble topping, creates a mouthwatering treat that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out in the kitchen, this cake is easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. With its simple ingredients and versatile nature, rhubarb coffee cake is a dessert that will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

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