The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (2024)

Table of Contents

Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake Vegan Strawberry-Rhubarb Oat Squares Strawberry-Rhubarb Sangria Spring Rhubarb Salad Roasted Vanilla and Rosemary Rhubarb with Sugared Pistachios Pink Rhubarb-Lemon Syrup Lattice-Topped Rhubarb Pie Creamy Rhubarb Potato Salad Rhubarb Ice Cream Rhubarb-Apple Crisp Rhubarb-Vanilla Mille Feuille Rhubarb-Buttermilk Tea Cake Rhubarb Coffee Cake Classic Rhubarb Custard Pie Strawberry-Rhubarb Pie Strawberry-Rhubarb Sangria Jellies Rhubarb Muffins Stewed Rhubarb Rhubarb Hand Pies Rhubarb Cranachan Rhubarb Crisp Buttermilk Pannacotta With Poached Rhubarb Spring Salad With Rhubarb Vinaigrette Raspberry-Rhubarb Compote Crispy Duck With Tangy Rhubarb Sauce Rhubarb Curd Strawberry-Rhubarb Granita Rhubarb Sour Pickled Rhubarb Raspberry-Rhubarb Pavlova Cupcakes Rhubarb semifreddo Roasted Halibut With Rhubarb-Bacon Jam Things To Know About Rhubarb Don't Eat Rhubarb Leaves How to Freeze Rhubarb Watch: How To Make Stewed Rhubarb (Also Known As Poached Rhubarb) GET CHATELAINE IN YOUR INBOX! FAQs References

Recipe Collections

From mini hand pies to muffins and a classic crisp, there are endless ways to use rhubarb.

ByChatelaine

Updated March 14, 2024

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (1)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Spring is truly here when those signature pink stalks hit the grocery aisles. Get the most out of the short rhubarb season by starting early, preserving the extras (read more on how to freeze rhubarb below) and making as many tasty desserts and savoury mains featuring this spring vegetable as possible (yes, it's a vegetable, even though it's often used like a fruit). Get inspired with our favourite rhubarb recipes, and read more about rhubarb here, including how to store it:

Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake

Why hide that glorious colour under piles of pastry? Turn dessert upside down so the ruby rhubarb crowns an easy butter cake instead.Get this rhubarb upside-down cake recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (2)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Vegan Strawberry-Rhubarb Oat Squares

With an irresistible oat crust and fruity, vibrant centre, these plant-based bars are a sure sign of summer. Get this Vegan Strawberry-Rhubarb Oat Squares recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (3)

(Photography by Erik Putz. Food styling by Eshun Mott. Prop styling by Emily Howes. Art direction by Aimee Nish*toba)

Advertisem*nt

Strawberry-Rhubarb Sangria

When the sun shines bright, it's time for a little sangria action. This one is spiked with fruity rhubarb and strawberries. Get this strawberry-rhubarb sangria recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (4)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Spring Rhubarb Salad

A fresh and easy salad packed with colour for the season. Get this spring rhubarb salad recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (5)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Roasted Vanilla and Rosemary Rhubarb with Sugared Pistachios

You know that spring has arrived when rhubarb starts popping up at the market or in your garden patch. This easy dessert from recipe developer Haley Polinsky, with its heady vanilla and rosemary bite, is a show-stopping way to celebrate it. Get this braised rhubarb recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (6)

Pink Rhubarb-Lemon Syrup

Make a delicious, fresh pop with this syrup and soda water. (Or add some gin for a more adult beverage.) Plus, variations for homemade ginger ale; lemon-mint; and cream soda syrups. Get this pink rhubarb-lemon syrup recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (7)

Advertisem*nt

Lattice-Topped Rhubarb Pie

Delight your taste buds with a recipe (shown at the top of this post!) that makes spring’s first produce the star of the show. Plus, our step-by-step instructions make it easy to make a beautiful pie, even if it's your first time. Get this lattice-topped rhubarb pie recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (8)

Creamy Rhubarb Potato Salad

If you're breaking out your grill this spring, complement your BBQed meat with a classic potato salad studded with crunchy rhubarb and gherkins. Hot tip: to get flavour-packed potatoes, mix them with the dressing while they’re piping hot. Get this creamy rhubarb potato salad recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (9)

(Photo: Erik Putz)

Rhubarb Ice Cream

No ice-cream maker required. All you need is:Rhubarb + sweetened condensed milk + 35% cream. Get this rhubarb ice cream recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (10)

(Photo: Erik Putz)

Advertisem*nt

Rhubarb-Apple Crisp

Rhubarb-apple crisp is the spring version of your favourite fall recipe. Get this rhubarb-apple crisp recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (11)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Rhubarb-Vanilla Mille Feuille

Rhubarb adds a pop of colour to this classic French dessert that only needs 5 ingredients. Get this rhubarb-vanilla mille feuille recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (12)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Rhubarb-Buttermilk Tea Cake

Crunchy pecans and tangy rhubarb make this moist banana breadalternative addictively good.Get this rhubarb-buttermilk tea cake recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (13)

(Photo: Roberto Caruso)

Advertisem*nt

Rhubarb Coffee Cake

Rhubarb coffee cake with a streusel topping is a tasty spring treat. Get this rhubarb coffee cake recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (14)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Classic Rhubarb Custard Pie

Rhubarb is the star of the show in this classic custard pie. Get this classic rhubarb custard pie recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (15)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Strawberry-Rhubarb Pie

A sweet and savoury pie that will leave you wanting more.Get this strawberry-rhubarb pie recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (16)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Advertisem*nt

Strawberry-Rhubarb Sangria Jellies

The perfect party-starter! Hand these cute sangria jellies out at your next barbecue for a fun and fizzy co*cktail option. Get this strawberry-rhubarb sangria jellies recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (17)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Rhubarb Muffins

We’ve never been more excited to break out the muffin tin. Get this rhubarb muffin recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (18)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Stewed Rhubarb

Laced with real vanilla and cooked with sugar to a syrupy finish, this soft and sweet rhubarb is incredibly quick to make. Serve over ice cream or with a dollop of whipped cream. Get this stewed rhubarb recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (19)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Advertisem*nt

Rhubarb Hand Pies

These golden mini pies have sugary sparkle on the outside, and fruity fillingon the inside. Kitchen Tip: It’s best to make the rhubarb filling just before making the hand pies, to prevent the rhubarb from watering out.Get this rhubarb hand pies recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (20)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Rhubarb Cranachan

Our take on a traditional Scottish dessert! Whipped cream, whiskey, poached rhubarb and a sweet crispy oat topping make this cranachan irresistible. Get this rhubarb cranachan recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (21)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Rhubarb Crisp

A golden crunch on top, and sweet-tart rhubarb perfection on the bottom. Serve with vanilla ice cream. Get this rhubarb crisp recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (22)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Advertisem*nt

Buttermilk Pannacotta With Poached Rhubarb

This Italian-inspired spring treat is the silkiest, sweetest spring dessert (watch out—you’ll be making it again and again). Get this buttermilk pannacotta with poached rhubarb recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (23)

Photo, Erik Putz.

Spring Salad With Rhubarb Vinaigrette

Delight your taste buds with a fresh salad, topped with a vinaigrette that adds a sweet-tart kick.Get this spring salad with rhubarb vinaigrette recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (24)

(Photo: Erik Putz)

Raspberry-Rhubarb Compote

Serve this compote over yogurt at breakfast, or over a cream scoop of vanilla ice cream after dinner. Get this raspberry-rhubarb compote recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (25)

(Photo: Sian Richards)

Advertisem*nt

Crispy Duck With Tangy Rhubarb Sauce

A sweet-and-tangy sauce tops juicy duck breast for a perfect melding of flavours. Serve with ginger and garlic beans and wild rice pilaf.Get this crispy duck with tangy rhubarb sauce recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (26)

(Photo: Erik Putz)

Rhubarb Curd

This genius idea was inspired by lemon curd—just sub in rhubarb. Spread it on pancakes, top on oatmeal, spoon it into little meringues, fold it into whipped cream—or eat it from the jar. Get this rhubarb curd recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (27)

(Photo: Sian Richards)

Strawberry-Rhubarb Granita

Whip up this Mediterranean frozen-fruit dessert, like a sorbet, only with a more crystalline texture. Get this strawberry-rhubarb granita recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (28)

(Photo: Michael Graydon)

Advertisem*nt

Rhubarb Sour

This rosy sipper bringsrhubarb’s kick to any happy hour.Get this rhubarb sour recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (29)

(Photo: Erik Putz)

Pickled Rhubarb

A savoury alternative that will leave you tickled pink. Delicious served with roast chicken or fish. It’s also perfect for cheese boards. Get this pickled rhubarb recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (30)

(Photo: Roberto Caruso)

Raspberry-Rhubarb Pavlova Cupcakes

Another afternoon tea favourite, these pretty cupcakesare as delicious as they are delightful.Get thisraspberry-rhubarb pavlova cupcakes recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (31)

(Photography: Michael Graydon)

Advertisem*nt

Rhubarb semifreddo

The classic combo of strawberries and rhubarb gets an Italian twist of citrus, for a cool and refreshing dessert you’ll be making well into summer.Get this rhubarb semifreddo recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (32)

(Photo: Erik Putz)

Roasted Halibut With Rhubarb-Bacon Jam

Roasted asparagus and a savoury rhubarb sauce make dinner a quick, healthy and colourful ode to spring.Get this roasted halibut with rhubarb-bacon jam recipe.

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (33)

(Photo: Erik Putz)

Things To Know About Rhubarb

Don't Eat Rhubarb Leaves

Safety alert! Rhubarb leaves are high in oxalic acid, which can be poisonous. Simply chop them off, discard and the rest of the stalk is then ready to use.

How to Freeze Rhubarb

If you're lucky enough to have rhubarb growing in your garden,chances are youhave more rhubarb than you can use. Thankfully, frozen rhubarbwill keep well for up to a year. To freeze, discard the leaves, chop stalks into 1-inch piecesand fillzip-top bags with 2 cup portions (easier for future use).

Related:How To Start Your Own Garden—Even If Your Yard Is Tiny

Watch: How To Make Stewed Rhubarb (Also Known As Poached Rhubarb)

GET CHATELAINE IN YOUR INBOX!

Subscribe to our newsletters for our very best stories, recipes, style and shopping tips, horoscopes and special offers.

FILED UNDER:

Recipesbakingcakespies

The 32 Best Rhubarb Recipes For Spring - Chatelaine (2024)

FAQs

How do you get the most Flavour out of rhubarb? ›

Not only does rhubarb need sweetness to temper its tart flavor, the sugar helps break down the fibrous, stringy stalks. A good starting point is to use a scant 1 cup granulated sugar for 4 cups of chopped rhubarb. Adjust according to your preferences.

How much of the stem of rhubarb should I use? ›

Never take more than about a third of the stalks at one time. Stop harvesting rhubarb before midsummer and let the plant continue to grow.

View Details ›

How to make rhubarb sweeter? ›

It also can rely on some of nature's best sweeteners—honey and orange juice—to bring it to its sweetest, most flavorful heights.

What is the best thing to do with rhubarb? ›

Rhubarb is a truly special ingredient. With its vivid pink colour and distinctively tangy taste, it can be stewed, poached, roasted and puréed in a range of dishes as well as drinks. Use it in a comforting crumble, a classic syllabub, a fruity chutney or a zingy kebab sauce – the possibilities are endless.

Get More Info ›

What are the tips and tricks for rhubarb? ›

Avoid ground that gets waterlogged, as plants are liable to rot. If your soil is heavy, plant in raised beds or large containers. Although rhubarb is very hardy, it's best not to plant it in a site prone to late frosts, as the young stems may be damaged. Alternatively, choose a later-cropping variety.

Keep Reading ›

How to take the tartness out of rhubarb? ›

Solution: Soak the rhubarb in water to reduce the acid, simmer in orange juice and sugar (and don't stir too much) to retain texture and color, and layer with lightly whipped, sweetened cream for ideal flavor and texture and an attractive, unusual presentation.

When not to eat rhubarb? ›

Rhubarb is good to eat in spring or early summer months, so before late July, to be exact. However, during the late summer months, rhubarb stalks tend to become more fibrous and start to lose their characteristic natural flavor. So, it's better not to eat rhubarb in the late summer.

When should you not pick rhubarb? ›

The harvest season for rhubarb lasts until the end of June. Until then, pick as many stalks as you wish. After harvest, allow the plant to keep all of its leaves, to build its reserves of energy for the next year. A common myth is that the entire plant becomes toxic later in the summer.

Get More Info Here ›

Why do you put a bucket over rhubarb? ›

Forcing rhubarb – covering the crowns to prevent light reaching them – will encourage the plants to make early growth. These pale, forced stalks can be harvested for use in cooking when they are 20-30cm long and are a useful crop when there is little else in store from the garden.

Get More Info ›

Why harvest rhubarb at night? ›

For those who haven't yet had the pleasure, home-grown rhubarb is quite delicious and it's those stems grown in darkness that are the most desirable of all. Growing plants in the dark, often with the addition of a little warmth, is known as 'forcing'. It's a simple way of tricking nature into early growth.

Are coffee grounds good for rhubarb? ›

Incorporating coffee grounds into the soil around rhubarb plants can improve soil structure, promote microbial activity, and enhance overall plant health. Also, coffee grounds can help deter certain pests, such as slugs and snails, which may damage rhubarb foliage.

Tell Me More ›

Does rhubarb like Epsom salts? ›

The rhubarb seems to appreciate it and has had a recent growth spurt. My other herbs don't seem to care and are just being normal. From the internet, I finally looked it up. I learned that using Epsom salts in gardens is not new and farmers learned long ago that magnesium sulfate fed plants become greener.

Get More Info ›

What does rhubarb do to your body? ›

Nutrition. Rhubarb is rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins (which give it its red color) and proanthocyanidins. These antioxidants have anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties, which help protect you from many health-related issues such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

Get More Info ›

What spices go well with rhubarb? ›

This spiced rhubarb crumble recipe is a tasty twist on the classic pudding. Cardamom, orange and cinnamon all lift the flavour while keeping it a classic.