Rhubarb Bread

Rhubarb bread is one of those delightful surprises that brings a burst of freshness and unique flavor to your table. At first glance, rhubarb might seem like an unusual ingredient for baking, but when you dive into the world of rhubarb bread, you’ll discover a treat that perfectly balances sweet and tart, making it a favorite for many home bakers.

Why We Love This Rhubarb Bread Recipe

There are countless reasons to cherish this rhubarb bread recipe. First and foremost, it offers a perfect balance of flavors. The tartness of rhubarb melds beautifully with the sweetness of sugar and the brightness of orange juice and zest. This combination results in a bread that’s not overwhelmingly sweet, making it an ideal companion for coffee or tea.

Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this flavorful bread in no time. The comforting smell that wafts through your kitchen as it bakes is an added bonus. Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile; you can enjoy it warm from the oven or at room temperature on its own or with a spread of butter or cream cheese. Each bite provides a delightful taste experience that draws you back for more.

Ingredients for Rhubarb Bread

Making rhubarb bread requires just a few ingredients, most of which you may already have in your pantry. Here’s what you will need:

• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh-squeezed for best flavor)
• 1/4 cup oil (vegetable or canola works well)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (from the fresh orange)
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups rhubarb (chopped into small pieces)

These ingredients come together to create a moist, aromatic bread that is both satisfying and refreshing!

How to Make Rhubarb Bread

Now that you have gathered your ingredients, it’s time to bring this delicious rhubarb bread to life. The process is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these steps:

Preheat the Oven: First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Don’t forget to prepare your loaf pan by spraying it generously with a nonstick cooking spray to ensure the bread comes out easily.

Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of sugar, 2 eggs, 1/4 cup of oil, 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice, and 1 tablespoon of orange zest. Use a whisk to ensure everything is mixed well, creating a smooth mixture that will give your bread a delightful flavor.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together 2 1/4 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir these ingredients until evenly combined. This step is crucial because it ensures that the baking powder and cinnamon distribute evenly through the bread.

Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture into the bowl of wet ingredients. Stir just until combined—do not overmix, as this could lead to a denser bread.

Add the Rhubarb: Gently fold in the 2 cups of chopped rhubarb. Make sure the rhubarb is evenly distributed throughout the batter, as this will provide that wonderful tart flavor in every bite.

Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes; if the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil.

Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes. Carefully remove it from the pan and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, slice and serve!

Following these steps, you’ll create a loaf of rhubarb bread that infuses your kitchen with delightful scents and promises an enjoyable baking experience.

How to Serve Rhubarb Bread

Serving rhubarb bread can be tailored to your liking. Here are some ideas to enhance your serving experience:

Breakfast Treat: Serve slices of warm rhubarb bread alongside a cup of your favorite morning beverage, whether it be coffee, tea, or a refreshing juice. The unique flavor makes it an excellent addition to your breakfast table.

Snack Time: Perfect as an afternoon snack, slice up the bread and serve it with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream cheese. The creaminess pairs wonderfully with the tangy flavor of the rhubarb.

Dessert Option: Enjoy it as a light dessert after dinner. You can even heat a slice in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey for a delightful combination that balances the bread’s tartness.

Share with Friends: Rhubarb bread makes a great gift for neighbors and friends. Wrap a loaf nicely in cellophane and add a ribbon for a simple yet thoughtful present that showcases your baking skills.

By presenting your rhubarb bread in various ways, you transform it from a simple loaf into a versatile addition to any meal or occasion.

Expert Tips: Rhubarb Bread

For the best results and an even more delicious rhubarb bread, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Rhubarb: Whenever possible, use fresh rhubarb rather than frozen. Fresh rhubarb has a better texture and flavor, which can elevate your bread significantly.
• Mind the Size of Rhubarb Chunks: Chop your rhubarb into small, even pieces. This ensures that they blend well into the batter and bake evenly throughout the loaf.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir until just combined. Overmixing can create a tougher texture that is less enjoyable.
• Zest Properly: Make sure to zest only the outer layer of the orange peel. The white part underneath (the pith) can be bitter and may affect the flavor profile of your bread.
• Check for Doneness: Everyone’s oven is slightly different. To ensure your bread is perfectly baked, do a toothpick test towards the end of the baking time. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven.

Using these tips, you can elevate your baking game and create a loaf of rhubarb bread that is perfect every time.

How to Store Rhubarb Bread

Storing your rhubarb bread properly helps maintain its flavor and freshness. After allowing the bread to cool completely, follow these storage tips:

• At Room Temperature: You can keep the bread at room temperature for about 2-3 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
• In the Refrigerator: If you need it to last longer, consider storing it in the refrigerator. However, this may alter the texture a bit. Wrap it tightly and consume it within a week for the best taste.
• Freezing: For long-term storage, rhubarb bread freezes well. Slice the bread and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.

By following these storage methods, you can enjoy your rhubarb bread days or even weeks after baking.

Variations of Rhubarb Bread

While the classic rhubarb bread recipe is delicious on its own, you might want to mix things up with some fun variations. Here are a few ideas to consider:

• Nutty Addition: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to enhance the texture and flavor. The crunchiness of the nuts contrasts beautifully with the softness of the bread.
• Spiced Up Version: Add 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg or cardamom to the dry ingredients for an extra layer of warm spices. This twist brings even more complexity to the bread’s flavor profile.
• Fruit Fusion: Consider adding 1 cup of diced apples or pears along with the rhubarb. This adds sweetness and moisture, creating a lovely combination that tantalizes the palate.
• Glazed Top: For a sweet finish, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a little orange juice on top of the cooled bread. This adds a lovely shine and a sweet flavor.

Feel free to experiment with these variations or come up with your own creative additions. The flexibility of this recipe allows you to personalize your rhubarb bread in ways that suit your taste preferences.

FAQ

What makes rhubarb bread unique?

Rhubarb bread is distinctive because it combines the tartness of rhubarb with sweet and aromatic ingredients like orange juice and zest. This balance of flavors creates a refreshing, moist bread that stands out from typical sweet breads.

Can I use frozen rhubarb in this recipe?

While fresh rhubarb is preferred for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen rhubarb as a substitute. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding it to the batter to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.

How do I know when my rhubarb bread is done baking?

To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. It is done if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Remember that overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking.