Name: Rhubarb Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 20
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup milk; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1½ cups brown sugar; ⅔ cup Vegetable Oil; 1 egg; 2½ cups all purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp Baking Soda; 1½ cups rhubarb; ½ cup Walnuts; ¼ cup brown sugar; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tbsp butter

Dive into the world of baking with this delicious rhubarb bread recipe. This recipe takes a classic bread to a whole new level with the tartness of rhubarb and the crunchiness of walnuts, making it a perfect complement to your morning coffee or afternoon tea.

Photos of Rhubarb Bread Recipe

The key ingredient, rhubarb, might not be commonly found in every kitchen. Therefore, if you are shopping at the supermarket, make sure to look for fresh and firm stalks of rhubarb. It's usually located in the produce section, near other fresh fruits and vegetables.

Ingredients for Delicious Rhubarb Bread

Milk: Adds moisture to the bread.

Lemon juice: Works with the milk to act as a buttermilk substitute.

Vanilla extract: Provides a sweet, creamy aroma that balances the tartness of the rhubarb.

Brown sugar: Gives the bread a deep, caramel-like sweetness.

Vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.

Egg: Binds the ingredients together and helps the bread rise.

All purpose flour: Creates the structure of the bread.

Salt: Enhances the other flavors in the bread.

Baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent.

Rhubarb: Adds a unique tangy flavor and texture to the bread.

Walnuts: Provides a delightful crunch.

Cinnamon: Adds a warm and spicy flavor.

Butter: Used for making the cinnamon-sugar topping.

One reader, Cordelie John says:

This rhubarb bread recipe is a game-changer! The bread turned out moist and flavorful, and the combination of rhubarb and walnuts was a delightful surprise. The cinnamon sugar topping added the perfect touch of sweetness. I highly recommend trying this recipe - it's a definite crowd-pleaser!

Cordelie John

Techniques Required for Making Delicious Rhubarb Bread

How to prepare the milk mixture: Stir together the milk, lemon juice, and vanilla in a small bowl and let it stand for 10 minutes. This will create a buttermilk-like mixture that adds moisture and tanginess to the bread.

How to fold in rhubarb and nuts: Gently incorporate the rhubarb and walnuts into the batter using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed without overmixing. This will help to evenly distribute the flavors and textures throughout the bread.

How to sprinkle the topping: Combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter in a small bowl, then sprinkle this mixture over the unbaked loaves. This will create a sweet and crunchy topping that adds a delightful contrast in texture and flavor to the bread.

How to serve the bread: Serve the rhubarb bread warm to enjoy its delicious flavors and aromas to the fullest. This bread is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but can also be reheated gently before serving.

Upgrade your usual loaves of bread with this soft, sweet, and tangy rhubarb bread recipe. Its light and delicate flavors come from combining fresh rhubarb with milk, vanilla, sugar, flour, eggs, lemon juice, and chopped walnuts. This mixture of sweet, tart, and nutty makes for a great tasting loaf of bread.

In case you didn’t know, rhubarb is basically a vegetable that’s commonly mistaken for a fruit. It has a long and reddish stalk with leaves that are dangerous to eat since it contains a lot of oxalic acid. So remember to only use the reddish stalks to make this rhubarb walnut bread! Whether you’re using fresh or frozen rhubarb, make sure that it’s prepared and chopped the right way. The naturally sour taste of the rhubarb is usually paired with sweets to make baked goods such as strawberry rhubarb crisp.

I personally love the way this rhubarb loaf cake tastes. It’s a quick bread recipe that has the perfect balance of sweet and tart which I find absolutely appetizing, and delightful to eat. It even tasted better with the crumble topping that I included. After making the rhubarb bread base, I finished it off with a cinnamon sugar crumble topping.

The streusel topping is made from melted butter that’s mixed with cinnamon and brown sugar. When combined, these ingredients would form a crumb-like texture that’s perfect for sprinkling over the rhubarb bread batter. It’s very quick and simple to make so don’t even think about skipping out on this delicious crumb topping! You’re going to miss out on a wonderful pairing of soft and crunchy.

I sprinkled a generous amount of this sweet crumble topping on the top, and then let it bake. In just less than an hour, it was done and ready to serve. I had a blast sharing it with my family and friends. It’s the perfect summertime bread to eat and pair with sweet fruits like bananas, strawberries or apples.

How To Make Rhubarb Bread

Soft and delightful, every slice of this rhubarb bread is packed with walnuts and a brush of cinnamon and brown sugar topping, for a delectable sweet treat!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Rhubarb Bread:

1cupmilk
1tbsplemon juice
1tspvanilla extract
1½cupsbrown sugar
⅔cupvegetable oil
1egg
2½cupsall purpose flour
1tspsalt
1tspbaking soda
1½cupsrhubarb,chopped
½cupwalnuts,chopped

For Cinnamon Streusel Topping:

¼cupbrown sugar
½tspground cinnamon
1tbspbutter,melted

Instructions

Rhubarb Bread:

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans, and line them with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, stir together the milk, lemon juice, and vanilla. Let stand for 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix together 1½ cups of brown sugar, oil, and egg. Combine the flour, salt, and baking soda, stir into sugar mixture alternately with the milk mixture just until combined.
Fold in rhubarb and nuts. Pour the batter into prepared loaf pans.

Cinnamon Streusel Topping:

In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the unbaked loaves.
Bake in the oven for 40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center of a loaf comes out clean.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 190.21kcal
Fat: 8.88g
Saturated Fat: 1.18g
Trans Fat: 0.08g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.73g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.48g
Carbohydrates: 25.53g
Fiber: 0.63g
Sugar: 13.13g
Protein: 2.39g
Cholesterol: 10.74mg
Sodium: 142.68mg
Calcium: 36.76mg
Potassium: 81.02mg
Iron: 0.89mg
Vitamin A: 14.38µg
Vitamin C: 1.03mg

Technique Tip for Making Delicious Rhubarb Bread

When preparing the rhubarb for this recipe, make sure to remove any leaves and trim the ends. The leaves are toxic and should not be consumed. The stalks should be firm and crisp, similar to celery. If they are limp or soft, they are not fresh and should not be used. Also, if your rhubarb is very tart, you may want to increase the amount of brown sugar slightly to balance the flavors.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Rhubarb Bread

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to avoid wasting time searching for utensils and ingredients.

Multi-task: While the bread is baking, use that time to clean up and prepare other dishes.

Use a food processor: Save time by using a food processor to chop the rhubarb and nuts quickly and efficiently.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that could waste time and ingredients.

Set a timer: Use a timer to keep track of baking and cooking times, allowing you to focus on other tasks.

Preheat the oven: Make sure the oven is preheated before you start preparing the batter to save time.

Clean as you go: Wash dishes and clean spills as you cook to minimize the mess and save time later.

Invest in quality tools: Quality kitchen tools and equipment can make food preparation more efficient.

Read the recipe: Carefully read through the entire recipe before you start to understand the steps and avoid any surprises.

Substitute Ingredients For Rhubarb Bread Recipe

milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a slightly nutty flavor to the bread.
lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can provide the same acidity and tanginess as lemon juice in the recipe.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a healthier alternative with a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor.
vegetable oil - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a lower-fat alternative, adding moisture and a hint of natural sweetness to the bread.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for a nuttier flavor and added nutritional benefits.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans can be used as a substitute for walnuts, providing a similar crunch and nutty flavor to the bread.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative, adding a hint of coconut flavor to the bread.

Presenting Your Delicious Rhubarb Bread

Elevate the plating: When presenting the rhubarb bread, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean lines and minimalistic plating to showcase the beauty of the bread.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Add a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the moist and tender texture of the bread. This will create a delightful contrast and enhance the overall dining experience.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some finely chopped mint or basil on the plate to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the presentation. The vibrant green hues will provide a visually striking element.
Utilize edible flowers: Adorn the plate with delicate edible flowers such as lavender or rose petals to infuse a touch of sophistication and a subtle floral aroma, elevating the overall aesthetic appeal.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use a small squeeze bottle to create artistic drizzles of honey or caramel sauce on the plate, adding an element of finesse and a touch of sweetness to the presentation.
Consider the use of decorative molds: Shape the rhubarb bread into elegant portions using decorative molds to create uniformity and precision in the plating, showcasing attention to detail.
Highlight with a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with a fine sprinkle of powdered sugar to add a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Rhubarb Bread

Mixer: A mixer is a kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping food ingredients. It is commonly used for baking to combine ingredients such as flour, sugar, and eggs to create batter or dough.
Oven: An oven is a kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food. It is essential for baking bread, cakes, and other baked goods.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately measure ingredients such as flour, sugar, and oil for baking. They ensure the precise amount of each ingredient is used in the recipe.
Mixing bowl: Mixing bowls are essential for combining ingredients and mixing batters. They come in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or plastic.
Loaf pans: Loaf pans are used to bake bread and cakes in a loaf shape. They come in different sizes and materials, such as metal or silicone.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet, also known as a cookie sheet, is used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods. It provides a flat surface for even baking.
Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients. It is commonly used to mix wet and dry ingredients together.
Knife: A knife is used for cutting and chopping ingredients such as rhubarb and nuts. It is essential for preparing the ingredients before incorporating them into the recipe.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for cutting and chopping ingredients. It protects the countertop and keeps the knife sharp.
Measuring scale: A measuring scale is used to weigh ingredients accurately, especially for baking where precise measurements are crucial for the success of the recipe.
Small bowl: Small bowls are used for mixing and preparing ingredients such as the cinnamon and butter mixture for sprinkling over the bread before baking.

Storing and Freezing Your Rhubarb Bread

Let the rhubarb bread cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent moisture from building up and making the bread soggy.
To store the bread at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, place the wrapped bread in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To freeze the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer bag. Label the package with the date and contents. Frozen rhubarb bread will keep for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen bread, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
For best results, slice the bread before freezing so you can easily remove and thaw individual portions as needed.
To refresh the bread after thawing, warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
Avoid refreezing previously frozen rhubarb bread, as this can affect its texture and quality.

How to Reheat Leftover Rhubarb Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the leftover rhubarb bread in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Heat the bread in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through and the crust is crispy again. This method works best if you want to reheat a whole loaf or a large portion of the bread.
For individual slices, use a toaster or toaster oven. Adjust the settings to your preferred level of crispiness and toast the rhubarb bread slices until they're heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method is quick and easy, perfect for a fast breakfast or snack.
If you prefer a softer texture, use the microwave. Place a damp paper towel over the rhubarb bread slice on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 15-20 seconds, or until the bread is heated through. The damp paper towel will help keep the bread moist and prevent it from drying out in the microwave.
For a crispy exterior and a soft interior, use a skillet or griddle. Melt a small amount of butter in the skillet over medium heat. Place the rhubarb bread slice in the skillet and heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it's heated through and slightly crispy. This method adds a delicious buttery flavor to the bread.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your rhubarb bread. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the bread slices in the basket. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and crispy on the outside. This method is a healthier alternative to using a skillet with butter.

Random Fact About Rhubarb Bread

Rhubarb bread is a delicious and versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a sweet treat or a breakfast option. It is a great way to use up fresh rhubarb and adds a unique flavor to traditional bread recipes.

Is Making Rhubarb Bread at Home Cost-Effective?

This rhubarb bread recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are fairly common and affordable, with the main cost being the rhubarb. The overall verdict for this recipe is an 8. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it a budget-friendly option for a delicious homemade treat.

Is This Rhubarb Bread Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This rhubarb bread recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The high amount of brown sugar and vegetable oil contributes to a significant number of calories and unhealthy fats. Additionally, the recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks the nutritional benefits of whole grain flours. The inclusion of walnuts does provide some healthy fats and protein, but the overall nutritional profile of this bread is not ideal.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar by half and replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Swap out the vegetable oil for a healthier option like coconut oil or olive oil
Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content
Increase the amount of rhubarb to boost the vitamin and mineral content
Add in other healthy ingredients like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or dried fruits for added nutrition and flavor
Reduce the amount of butter used in the topping or omit it altogether

By making these adjustments, you can create a more nutritious version of this rhubarb bread that still satisfies your taste buds. Experiment with different variations and find the perfect balance that works for you and your family.

Editor's Thoughts on This Rhubarb Bread Recipe

The recipe for delicious rhubarb bread is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. The use of rhubarb and walnuts adds a unique texture and depth to the bread, while the cinnamon and brown sugar topping provides a perfect balance of sweetness. The incorporation of lemon juice and vanilla extract enhances the overall aroma and taste. This recipe is a wonderful way to showcase the seasonal flavors of rhubarb and is sure to be a hit with anyone who enjoys a moist and flavorful bread.

Enhance Your Rhubarb Bread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with toasted almonds

Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits tossed in a honey-lime dressing

Alternative Recipes Similar to Rhubarb Bread

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: These savory stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and healthy meal option that is easy to make at home. The combination of ground beef, rice, and seasonings creates a flavorful filling that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy and decadent chicken alfredo pasta dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The rich and velvety sauce paired with tender chicken and al dente pasta will leave you wanting more with every bite.

Refreshing Watermelon Salad: Enjoy a refreshing and light watermelon salad that is the perfect dish for a hot summer day. The sweet and juicy watermelon paired with tangy feta cheese and fresh mint creates a delightful combination of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

Hearty Beef Stew: Warm up with a hearty beef stew that is packed with tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich and flavorful broth. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night at home and will leave you feeling satisfied and content.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Delicious Rhubarb Bread Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. These stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any occasion.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: A creamy and cheesy dip made with spinach, artichokes, and a blend of delicious seasonings. Served warm with crispy tortilla chips or bread slices, this spinach and artichoke dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will disappear in minutes.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Creamy, indulgent, and satisfying, this classic Italian dish features tender chicken and al dente pasta smothered in a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

Beef Stroganoff: Tender strips of beef, savory mushrooms, and tangy sour cream come together in this hearty and flavorful dish. Served over a bed of buttery egg noodles, it's a timeless favorite that never fails to impress.

Why trust this Rhubarb Bread Recipe:

This recipe is a trusted favorite, crafted with care and expertise. The combination of fresh rhubarb and walnuts creates a delightful texture and flavor profile. The use of brown sugar and cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the bread. The incorporation of lemon juice and vanilla extract enhances the overall aroma and taste. Our commitment to quality and detail ensures that this recipe is a reliable choice for anyone seeking a delicious and satisfying baked treat.

Have you tried this rhubarb bread recipe? Let us know how it turned out or share your own favorite recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain the rhubarb before using it in the bread.

Can I substitute the walnuts with a different type of nut?

Absolutely! You can substitute the walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor and texture.

Can I use a different type of oil instead of vegetable oil?

Yes, you can use canola oil or melted coconut oil as a substitute for vegetable oil in this recipe.

Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?

While brown sugar adds a rich flavor to the bread, you can use white sugar as a substitute if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor and color of the bread may be slightly different.

Can I freeze the rhubarb bread?

Yes, you can freeze the rhubarb bread. Once it has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy it again.