Experience the magic of rhubarb in this moist rhubarb cake with streusel that is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert combines the tartness of rhubarb with a sweet, tender cake that delights the senses. Whether served at a celebration or enjoyed as an afternoon treat, this cake stands out with its unique flavors and textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of tangy rhubarb and sweet cake creates a perfect balance that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delightful dessert.
- Versatile Dessert: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner, this moist rhubarb cake suits any occasion.
- Streusel Topping: The buttery streusel adds a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the cake perfectly.
- Freezes Well: Make extra and freeze for later enjoyment; it retains its flavor and moisture even after thawing.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your moist rhubarb cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- 9-inch round cake pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure your cake turns out just right every time.
- Whisk: Helps incorporate air into batter, leading to a light texture in your moist rhubarb cake.
- Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down sides of bowls and folding in ingredients gently.
Ingredients
Experience the magic of rhubarb in this moist cake with streusel that is sure to become a family favorite.
For the Cake
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened, room temperature)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 1 1/2 cup rhubarb (cut into small pieces)
For the Streusel Topping
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 Tbsp. powdered sugar
How to Make Moist Rhubarb Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your moist rhubarb cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour and baking powder.
2. In another bowl, cream together 1/2 cup softened butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and buttermilk until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until incorporated.
6. Fold in the chopped rhubarb carefully to maintain its shape.
Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping
In a separate bowl:
1. Mix together 3/4 cup flour, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar until crumbly.
2. Set aside while you prepare to bake.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan:
1. Evenly distribute the streusel topping over the batter.
2. Bake in your preheated oven for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
3. Allow cooling slightly before serving dusted with powdered sugar if desired.
Enjoy your freshly baked moist rhubarb cake with friends or family!
How to Serve Moist Rhubarb Cake
This moist rhubarb cake is delightful on its own, but it can be even more enjoyable with some creative serving ideas. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
With Fresh Whipped Cream
- Adding fresh whipped cream enhances the moist texture and provides a light, airy contrast to the cake.
A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
- Serve a slice of moist rhubarb cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious warm-and-cold combination that everyone loves.
Paired with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy your rhubarb cake alongside a cup of coffee or tea. The flavors complement each other perfectly, making for an ideal afternoon treat.
Topped with Powdered Sugar
- A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal, making the cake look even more inviting.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve slices with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for added freshness and vibrant flavor.
How to Perfect Moist Rhubarb Cake
To achieve the best results when baking this moist rhubarb cake, consider these helpful tips.
Use Fresh Rhubarb: Fresh rhubarb gives the best flavor and texture. If using frozen rhubarb, ensure it is thoroughly thawed and drained.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and better rise.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a moist one.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached for perfect moisture.
Store Properly: Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its moisture.
Best Side Dishes for Moist Rhubarb Cake
Pairing side dishes with your moist rhubarb cake can enhance its flavors and make for a delightful meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can provide a nice balance and add brightness to your dessert table.
Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese that pair well with fruity desserts.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the slice adds decadence and richness.
Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option, try coconut whipped cream, which pairs wonderfully with the tartness of rhubarb.
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce brings sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake.
Almonds or Nuts: Chopped toasted almonds or walnuts add crunch and depth to every bite.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves as a garnish not only add color but also introduce a refreshing herbaceous note that contrasts nicely with the cake’s flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Moist Rhubarb Cake, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
Using Cold Ingredients: Always ensure that your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps the batter mix more evenly, resulting in a fluffier cake.
Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the desired moistness in your rhubarb cake.
Not Prepping the Rhubarb: Make sure to chop your rhubarb into small, even pieces. This ensures even distribution throughout the cake and avoids large tangy bites.
Skipping Streusel Topping: The streusel adds a delightful crunch and sweetness. Don’t skip it; it’s an essential part of what makes this cake so delicious.
Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven for accurate baking. An oven that’s too hot or too cold can ruin the texture of your Moist Rhubarb Cake.
Ignoring Freshness of Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and flour. Using stale ingredients can lead to poor rise and flavor in your cake.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Moist Rhubarb Cake in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Moist Rhubarb Cake
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.
Reheating Moist Rhubarb Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cake in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid on for about 5 minutes to warm slices gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Moist Rhubarb Cake that may help you along the way.
Can I use frozen rhubarb for Moist Rhubarb Cake?
Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb. Just thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the batter.
How do I know when my Moist Rhubarb Cake is done?
You can check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached but not wet batter.
Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace rhubarb with fruits like apples or strawberries for different flavors while maintaining moisture.
What makes this cake so moist?
The combination of butter, buttermilk, and fresh rhubarb contributes to its moist texture, ensuring each slice is soft and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Moist Rhubarb Cake is perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors that everyone will love. It’s versatile too—feel free to customize with spices like cinnamon or add nuts for extra crunch. Give it a try; you won’t regret it!
Moist Rhubarb Cake
Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Moist Rhubarb Cake, a perfect blend of sweet and tart that is sure to impress your family and friends. This easy-to-make dessert features tender chunks of rhubarb nestled in a fluffy cake batter, topped with a crunchy streusel for added texture. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as an afternoon treat, this cake will quickly become a cherished recipe in your home. With its vibrant taste and comforting aroma, it’s the ideal way to celebrate seasonal rhubarb. Enjoy warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 cups rhubarb (chopped)
- For the Streusel: 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In one bowl, combine flour and baking powder. In another bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one by one, then mix in vanilla and buttermilk.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients into the wet mix until just incorporated.
- Gently fold in chopped rhubarb.
- For the streusel topping, mix flour, melted butter, and sugar until crumbly.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle streusel on top, and bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
