3 Ingredient Rhubarb Squares Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that’s incredibly easy but packs a punch of flavor, you’ll fall head over heels for these 3 Ingredient Rhubarb Squares. With just a box of cake mix, butter, and fresh rhubarb, this recipe transforms simple kitchen staples into golden, sweet-tart bars that are impossible to resist. Whether for a last-minute get-together or a cozy afternoon treat, these squares bring out the very best in rhubarb with absolutely minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines thanks to its simplicity, proving you don’t need a dozen pantry staples to make something special! Every ingredient here plays a starring role in creating the dreamy balance of buttery crust and juicy rhubarb that makes these squares unforgettable.

• Yellow or white cake mix: This is your shortcut to a perfectly sweet, tender crust without any measuring or sifting required.
• Unsalted butter, melted: The richness of real butter brings lush flavor and melds the cake mix into a delightful buttery dough.
• Chopped rhubarb: Bursting with tartness and vibrant color, rhubarb is the hero of the dish, balancing the sweetness for a fresh, lively bite.

How to Make 3 Ingredient Rhubarb Squares

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan, or, if you like super-easy cleanup, line it with parchment paper. This step helps you remove the squares effortlessly later and guarantees nothing sticks behind.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a roomy mixing bowl, combine the entire box of cake mix with the melted butter. Use a fork or clean fingers to blend the two together until the mixture looks crumbly but still moist. Don’t worry if it’s a little shaggy—these bits will bake into a golden, satisfying crust with just the right amount of chew.

Step 3: Press and Top with Rhubarb

Transfer the crumbly dough to your prepared pan. Using your hands or the back of a spoon, press it evenly to form the base. Next, sprinkle the chopped rhubarb evenly over the surface. Gently press the rhubarb into the dough so the pieces nestle into the crust—this ensures every bite is loaded with juicy tang.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The top should be turning golden and the rhubarb tender with little juices bubbling at the edges. Once baked, be patient and let the pan cool completely before slicing. This wait helps the squares firm up, so cutting and serving them is a breeze.

How to Serve 3 Ingredient Rhubarb Squares

Garnishes

For an extra spark of sweetness and contrast, try dusting your 3 Ingredient Rhubarb Squares with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar, a dollop of softly whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you like a touch of fresh color, scatter a few mint leaves or thinly sliced strawberries over the top for that bakery-fresh look.

Side Dishes

These squares are lovely all on their own, but they also play nicely with a fresh fruit salad, tangy yogurt, or a mug of tea for a well-rounded dessert spread. If you’re aiming to impress, serve alongside a platter of mixed berries or an assortment of cookies for a beautifully inviting dessert tray.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your 3 Ingredient Rhubarb Squares into classic bars, or use a round biscuit cutter for dainty circles that are perfect for parties. Stack squares on a cake stand for a rustic look, or place each piece in a parchment cupcake liner to give everyone a fuss-free, grab-and-go treat at picnics or potlucks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to five days—the crust stays satisfying and the rhubarb remains pleasantly tart!

Freezing

If you’d like to save some for a rainy day, these squares freeze beautifully. Place cooled bars in a single layer between pieces of parchment in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll last for up to three months, making it easy to pull out a treat whenever you need a rhubarb fix.

Reheating

To enjoy chilled squares, just thaw and dig in! For a warm-from-the-oven experience, pop a square into the microwave for about 15 seconds. The crust softens just a bit, and the rhubarb becomes wonderfully fragrant all over again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen rhubarb instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen rhubarb works just fine. There’s no need to thaw completely—just toss it on the crust as directed, and add a couple extra minutes to the baking time if needed. Drain any excess liquid to keep the crust crisp.

Is it possible to use a gluten-free cake mix?

Absolutely! Your 3 Ingredient Rhubarb Squares will turn out just as mouthwatering with a gluten-free cake mix. The rest of the process and texture remain the same, so everyone can indulge.

Can I make these squares ahead of time?

You sure can. In fact, the flavors meld together even more after an overnight rest. Just bake, cool, cover, and refrigerate up to a day ahead for effortless entertaining or snack planning.

Do I need to peel the rhubarb before using?

No peeling is necessary unless the stalks are especially tough or fibrous. Young rhubarb is typically tender and adds gorgeous color. Give stalks a rinse, trim the ends, and slice away!

Can I add extras like nuts or coconut?

Definitely! Sprinkle chopped pecans, almonds, or coconut flakes over the rhubarb layer before baking for extra crunch and flavor. The beauty of 3 Ingredient Rhubarb Squares is how versatile they are—feel free to make them your own.

Final Thoughts

With their brilliant tang, buttery crust, and come-together-in-a-flash method, these 3 Ingredient Rhubarb Squares are the kind of treat that wins hearts and disappears fast. If you’ve ever wanted a foolproof rhubarb dessert that delights everyone, look no further. Give these a try and share the joy—just don’t be surprised if they’re all gone before you know it!

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