Rhubarb Custard Bars Shortbread Crust (Printable Version)

Buttery shortbread, tangy rhubarb, and silky custard bake into bright, sliceable springtime bars.

# List of Ingredients:

→ For the Shortbread Crust

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
04 - 1/4 tsp salt

→ For the Rhubarb Layer

05 - 3 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
06 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar

→ For the Custard Filling

07 - 3 large eggs
08 - 1 cup granulated sugar
09 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
10 - 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
11 - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
12 - Pinch of salt

→ For Garnish (optional)

13 - Powdered sugar for dusting

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan and line with parchment paper.
02 - In a bowl, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt; mix until a soft dough forms.
03 - Press dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until lightly golden at the edges.
04 - While crust bakes, toss chopped rhubarb with sugar and set aside.
05 - In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until well combined. Add flour, cream, vanilla extract, and salt; whisk until smooth.
06 - Remove the crust from oven. Evenly spread the sugared rhubarb over the hot crust. Pour custard filling over the rhubarb.
07 - Return pan to the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until custard is set and lightly golden.
08 - Cool completely in the pan. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Cut into bars and serve.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The shortbread base stays golden and rich even under the moist layers, creating the dreamiest texture contrast.
  • Each bite balances sweet, tangy, and creamy—one of those rare desserts that feels just right for spring gatherings or cozy solo afternoons.
02 -
  • If you skip the parchment, you’ll curse yourself trying to pry out that first bar—the rhubarb gets beautifully sticky.
  • Letting the bars cool fully (even overnight) makes them slice cleanly and taste even more magical.
03 -
  • Don’t overmix the custard—treat it gently for the silkiest result.
  • For even bars, use a hot knife to cut (wipe between slices for the cleanest edges).
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