Rhubarb crumble
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 50–55 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Servings: 6–8
What is Rhubarb Crumble?
Rhubarb Crumble is a classic British dessert made by topping tart rhubarb with a buttery, golden crumb topping and baking it until bubbling and crisp. The contrast between the sour-sweet filling and crunchy topping makes this an unforgettable dessert — best served warm with custard, cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Whether you grow rhubarb in your garden or grab it fresh from the market, this crumble is a nostalgic, rustic treat that celebrates seasonal produce.
Ingredients
For the Rhubarb Filling:
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1 ½ lbs (680g) fresh rhubarb, chopped into ½-inch pieces
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3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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2 tbsp cornstarch or plain flour
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1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
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Pinch of salt
For the Crumble Topping:
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1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar
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1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
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1/2 cup (40g) rolled oats (optional, for extra texture)
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1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Rhubarb
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped rhubarb, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch (or flour), vanilla (if using), and a pinch of salt.
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Toss everything together until the rhubarb is evenly coated.
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Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized ovenproof dish.
Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping
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In a separate bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, oats (if using), and cinnamon.
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Add the cold, cubed butter.
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Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. A few larger clumps are okay — they make the topping crunchier.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
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Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the rhubarb mixture.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the fruit is bubbling around the edges.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Let the crumble cool for at least 10–15 minutes to allow the juices to thicken. Serve warm with your favorite topping:
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Vanilla ice cream
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Whipped cream
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Custard
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Yogurt (for a lighter option)
Serving Suggestions
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Classic Combo: Serve warm with vanilla custard.
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Cool Treat: A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes a perfect contrast.
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Brunch Option: Serve with a spoon of Greek yogurt for a tart-sweet twist.
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Make it Mini: Bake in ramekins for individual servings at dinner parties.
Storage & Reheating
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Refrigerate: Store covered for up to 4 days in the fridge.
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Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or microwave single servings for 30–60 seconds.
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Freeze: Assemble unbaked crumble and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10 extra minutes.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300–350 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 30g |
| Sodium | 70mg |
Note: Nutritional info may vary based on specific ingredients used.