This delightful Rhubarb Strawberry Cake is perfect for summer celebrations. It's a sweet and sour combination that offers an exciting spin on traditional cakes. The nutmeg and cinnamon add a soothing warmth to the fresh fruits, while the crumbly oat mixture provides an enticing texture. It's a recipe that's sure to impress your guests and provide a tantalizing treat for your taste-buds.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe, like flour, sugar, butter, and spices, can probably be found in your pantry. However, you might need to head to the supermarket for rhubarb and fresh strawberries. Rhubarb is a plant with long, greenish-pink stalks, which are often used in cake and pie recipes. It has a very tart flavor that is wonderfully balanced by the sweetness of the strawberries. Make sure to only use the stalks of the rhubarb plant as the leaves are toxic.
Rhubarb Strawberry Cake Ingredients
All purpose flour: A versatile kind of flour that's used widely in baking.
Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to the cake due to its molasses content.
Quick cooking oats: They add a lovely texture to the topping and absorb the juices of the fruit to become flavorful.
Ground cinnamon: A spice that adds warmth and complexity to the cake.
Ground nutmeg: Another spice that contributes a sweet, nutty flavor.
Butter: Provides richness and helps in the browning process.
Rhubarb: Offers a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
Fresh strawberries: Adds natural sweetness and a juicy texture.
White sugar: Used in the sauce to balance the tartness of the fruits.
Cornstarch: A thickening agent for the sauce.
Water: Needed for the sauce.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors in the cake.
One reader, Bron Nobles says:
This rhubarb strawberry cake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet strawberries and tangy rhubarb creates a burst of flavor in every bite. The crumbly topping adds a delightful crunch. It's a hit with my family and friends, and it's now a regular on our dessert menu.
Techniques for Making Rhubarb Strawberry Cake
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F: This step is essential to ensure that the oven is at the correct temperature for baking the cake.
Combine flour, packed brown sugar, quick-cooking oats, cinnamon, and nutmeg: Mixing these dry ingredients together creates the base for the cake and adds flavor and texture.
Cut in the butter until the mixture is crumbly: This technique involves blending the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, which adds richness and texture to the cake.
Spoon the rhubarb and strawberries into the baking pan: Evenly distribute the fruit mixture over the crust layer to ensure a balanced distribution of flavors in the cake.
Combine sugar, cornstarch, water, and vanilla in a saucepan: This step involves creating a sweet and thick sauce to pour over the fruit, adding moisture and sweetness to the cake.
Bring the sugar mixture to a boil over medium heat and cook and stir for 2 minutes: This technique thickens the sauce and ensures that the cornstarch is fully cooked, resulting in a glossy, flavorful topping for the cake.
Pour the sugar mixture over the fruit: Evenly distribute the sweetened sauce over the fruit to ensure a balanced sweetness throughout the cake.
Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the fruit: Evenly distribute the remaining crumb mixture over the fruit to create a textured topping for the cake.
Bake at 350 degrees F for 1 hour: This step involves baking the cake until it is golden brown and the fruit is tender, resulting in a delicious dessert.
Serve with vanilla ice cream: This final step adds a creamy and indulgent element to the dessert, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
How To Make Rhubarb Strawberry Cake
A buttery crumb is filled with fresh seasonal bounty in this rhubarb strawberry cake recipe. This summer treat is also spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cupall purpose flour
- 1cupbrown sugar,packed
- ¾cupquick cooking oats
- 1tspground cinnamon
- ½tspground nutmeg
- ½cupbutter
- 4cupsrhubarb,chopped
- 2cupsfresh strawberries,halved
- 1cupwhite sugar
- 2tbspcornstarch
- 1cupwater
- 1tspvanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
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In a bowl combine flour, packed brown sugar, quick-cooking oats, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cut in the butter until the mixture is crumbly. Press half of the mixture into an ungreased 9-inch round baking pan.
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Combine chopped rhubarb and strawberries; spoon into baking pan.
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In a saucepan combine sugar, cornstarch, water, and vanilla. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook and stir for 2 minutes. Pour mixture over fruit. Sprinkle fruit with the remaining crumb mixture.
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Bake at 350 degrees F for 1 hour. Wonderful when served with vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition
- Calories: 277.83kcal
- Fat: 8.64g
- Saturated Fat: 5.04g
- Trans Fat: 0.31g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.24g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.66g
- Carbohydrates: 48.20g
- Fiber: 2.70g
- Sugar: 30.13g
- Protein: 3.37g
- Cholesterol: 20.34mg
- Sodium: 7.85mg
- Calcium: 61.32mg
- Potassium: 229.34mg
- Iron: 1.26mg
- Vitamin A: 67.02µg
- Vitamin C: 18.16mg
Helpful Technique for Making Rhubarb Strawberry Cake
When preparing the rhubarb for this recipe, make sure to remove the leaves as they are toxic and should not be consumed. Also, when cutting the strawberries, try to keep them all roughly the same size to ensure even cooking. If the strawberries are too large, they may not cook thoroughly, resulting in a less desirable texture in your cake.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Cake Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop the rhubarb and strawberries the night before and store them in the refrigerator to save time on the day of baking.
Use pre-made crust: Consider using a pre-made pie crust to cut down on prep time and simplify the baking process.
Multi-task: While the cake is baking, use that time to prepare other dishes or clean up the kitchen to maximize efficiency.
Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather and organize all the ingredients and utensils needed for the recipe to streamline the cooking process.
Invest in quality tools: Quality kitchen tools such as a sharp knife and efficient mixing bowls can significantly speed up the cooking process and make it more enjoyable.
Follow a schedule: Create a cooking schedule and prioritize tasks to ensure that everything is completed in a timely manner without feeling rushed.
Substitute Ingredients For Rhubarb Strawberry Cake Recipe
all purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all purpose flour: This substitute is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies, and it can be used in a 1:1 ratio as a direct replacement for regular all-purpose flour.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a 1:1 replacement for brown sugar, and it adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the recipe.
quick cooking oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can be used as a gluten-free alternative to oats, providing a similar texture and nutty flavor to the dish.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with apple pie spice: Apple pie spice is a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, which can add a warm and aromatic flavor to the recipe.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with ground cloves: Ground cloves can be used as a substitute for nutmeg, providing a warm and slightly pungent flavor to the dish.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, adding a subtle coconut flavor to the cake.
rhubarb - Substitute with apples: Apples can be used as a substitute for rhubarb, providing a sweet and slightly tart flavor to the cake.
fresh strawberries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries can be used as a substitute for strawberries, offering a similar tartness and vibrant color to the cake.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of white sugar, adding a distinct floral sweetness to the cake.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a substitute for cornstarch to thicken the fruit filling, providing a similar thickening effect.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can be used to add a nutty and fragrant flavor to the cake, replacing the vanilla extract.
Presentation Ideas for Rhubarb Strawberry Cake
Elevate the plating: When presenting the rhubarb strawberry cake, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use delicate edible flowers and mint leaves to add a pop of color and freshness to the plate.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Enhance the visual appeal of the dish by incorporating a drizzle of strawberry coulis or rhubarb syrup on the plate. This not only adds a touch of sophistication but also complements the flavors of the cake.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Opt for sophisticated dessert plates or cake stands to showcase the rhubarb strawberry cake. The choice of serving ware can elevate the overall presentation and create a memorable dining experience.
Garnish with precision: Pay attention to the placement of the rhubarb and strawberry slices on the plate. Precision in garnishing demonstrates attention to detail and adds a professional touch to the presentation.
Create a harmonious composition: Balance the elements on the plate to create a visually appealing composition. Consider the placement of the cake, fruit, and garnishes to ensure a harmonious and balanced presentation.
Add a touch of elegance with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with a sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving to add a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Rhubarb Strawberry Cake
- Oven: An essential appliance for baking and cooking dishes that require dry heat.
- Baking pan: A shallow, rectangular metal pan used for baking cakes, brownies, and other baked goods.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and a lid, used for making sauces, boiling liquids, and cooking grains.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients together, often available in various sizes.
- Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending and mixing ingredients together, incorporating air into the mixture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential tools for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
- Knife: A sharp utensil used for slicing, chopping, and preparing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients, protecting countertops from damage.
- Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
- Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
- Sieve: A fine mesh tool used for sifting dry ingredients and straining liquids.
- Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending and mixing ingredients together, incorporating air into the mixture.
Storing and Freezing Rhubarb Strawberry Cake
Allow the rhubarb strawberry cake to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
To store the cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label the package with the date and contents. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When ready to serve, thaw the frozen cake in the refrigerator overnight. Remove the wrapping and let it come to room temperature before serving.
If you prefer a warm cake, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, avoid freezing the cake multiple times. If you only need a portion of the cake, consider cutting it into slices before freezing, so you can thaw only what you need.
How To Reheat Leftover Rhubarb Strawberry Cake
The best way to reheat leftover rhubarb strawberry cake is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the cake from drying out while it reheats. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is heated through and the crumb topping is crisp again.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can reheat individual slices of the cake in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until it's warmed to your liking. Be careful not to overheat the cake, as it may become rubbery or dry.
For a tasty twist, try warming up a slice of the cake in a skillet with a bit of butter. Melt a small amount of butter in the skillet over medium heat, then place the cake slice in the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the cake is heated through and the edges are slightly caramelized. This method will give your leftover cake a delightful buttery flavor and a crispy exterior.
If you want to maintain the cake's moisture, you can also reheat it using a steamer. Place the cake in a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water, making sure the water doesn't touch the bottom of the basket. Cover the steamer and let the cake heat through for 5-7 minutes. This gentle reheating method will help keep the cake moist and soft.
Lastly, if you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover rhubarb strawberry cake. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice of cake in the basket. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cake is heated through and the top is slightly crisp. This method is quick and will give your cake a nice texture without drying it out.
Interesting Fact About Rhubarb Strawberry Cake
Rhubarb strawberry cake is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of strawberries. It's a perfect way to enjoy these seasonal fruits in a delicious and comforting cake.
Is Making Rhubarb Strawberry Cake at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this rhubarb strawberry cake recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients. Rhubarb and strawberries can be pricey when out of season, potentially impacting the recipe's affordability. However, the use of basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, and oats may balance the overall cost. Considering the potential need for vanilla extract and butter, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people could range from $15 to $20. As for the verdict, this delightful dessert earns a solid 8 for its flavor, versatility, and the joy it brings to the table.
Is This Cake Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This rhubarb strawberry cake recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The recipe contains a significant amount of sugar, with 1 cup of brown sugar and 1 cup of white sugar, which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues when consumed in excess. Additionally, the recipe uses butter, which is high in saturated fat and can raise cholesterol levels.
On the positive side, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients:
- Rhubarb and strawberries are good sources of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants
- Oats provide fiber and can help lower cholesterol levels
- Cinnamon and nutmeg have anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of sugar by using a sugar substitute or cutting the sugar by half
- Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
- Use a healthier fat source, such as coconut oil or olive oil, instead of butter
- Increase the amount of fruit and reduce the amount of crumb topping to lower the overall calorie and sugar content
- Serve the cake with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of ice cream for a protein boost and fewer calories
By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the delightful flavors of rhubarb and strawberry in a more nutritious way.
Editor's Opinion on This Rhubarb Strawberry Cake Recipe
The combination of rhubarb and strawberries in this cake recipe creates a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. The crumbly oat topping adds a wonderful texture and depth to the dish. However, I would suggest reducing the amount of sugar in the fruit mixture to allow the natural sweetness of the strawberries and rhubarb to shine through. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful way to showcase seasonal fruits in a simple and delicious dessert.
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Why trust this Rhubarb Strawberry Cake Recipe:
This recipe is a delightful combination of fresh rhubarb and strawberries, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. The use of cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the dish. The crumbly topping made with brown sugar and oats provides a satisfying crunch. The addition of vanilla extract enhances the overall aroma and taste. The careful layering and baking process ensures a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the thoughtful preparation to deliver a delectable dessert experience.
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