Deliciously Moist Rhubarb Bread Recipe You’ll Love to Bake

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I still remember the first time I baked this classic rhubarb bread—it was the kind of day where the scent of spring lingered in the air, and my kitchen was filled with the joyful chatter of family. As I chopped fresh rhubarb, the vibrant pink stalks practically sang with the promise of sweetness and tang. This recipe has become a cherished tradition in our home, turning the bountiful gifts of spring into something truly magical.

Bursting with delicious, fruity flavors and studded with crunchy walnuts, this rhubarb bread is a comforting quick bake that fills the house with a warm, inviting aroma. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, it’s the ideal recipe for anyone bored with fast food that craves something homemade and heartwarming. Join me as I guide you through creating this delightful loaf, where each bite transports you to a sunny spring day, even if it’s raining outside.

Table of Contents

Why is Rhubarb Bread so popular?

Irresistible Flavor is what elevates rhubarb bread to a crowd favorite. Its unique combination of sweet and tangy flavors creates a delightful taste experience that keeps you coming back for more. With each slice, the tender crumb melts in your mouth, revealing juicy chunks of rhubarb and satisfying walnut crunch. This quick bread is not just a treat for the taste buds; it's also a fantastic way to use up fresh spring rhubarb.

Perfectly Versatile, this delightful loaf can be enjoyed at any time of day. Pair a slice with your morning coffee, serve it warm as a comforting dessert, or enjoy it as a wholesome afternoon snack. Discover the magic of this seasonal delight and transform your baking routine with classic strawberry-rhubarb bread.

Rhubarb Bread Ingredients

For the Batter

Milk – Provides moisture that keeps the bread tender.
Lemon Juice – Adds tang and activates the milk for a fluffier texture.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor, making each bite delightful.
Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and creates a moist crumb that you’ll love.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps the bread tender while adding moisture to the mix.
Large Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds richness to the loaf.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure, allowing the bread to rise beautifully.
Salt – Enhances flavor, ensuring the sweetness is perfectly balanced.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for a light, fluffy bread.
Chopped Rhubarb – The star ingredient that gives this classic rhubarb bread its tangy fruitiness.
Chopped Walnuts – Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to the bread.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth, complementing the tartness of the rhubarb.

For the Topping

Butter (melted) – Used in the topping for added richness and flavor.
Additional Brown Sugar – Creates a sweet, caramelized topping that enhances every bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Rhubarb Bread

Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that the bread cooks evenly and thoroughly. While the oven heats up, take the time to lightly grease two 9x5-inch loaf pans to prevent sticking. The right preparation will yield beautifully baked loaves!
Combine Milk and Lemon Juice In a small bowl, stir together the milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This step is important because the acidity of the lemon juice activates the milk, creating a creamy mixture that contributes to the fluffiness of the bread.
Mix Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of brown sugar, vegetable oil, and the egg. Beat them together until smooth and well-blended. This mixture will add sweetness and moisture to your bread. The oil keeps the bread tender, while the egg helps bind the ingredients, providing richness.
Combine Ingredients Gradually add the flour, salt, and baking soda to the sugar mixture, alternating with the milk mixture, just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the texture light and fluffy. You'll see a beautiful batter forming, and the slight lumps are perfectly fine; they contribute to the wonderful crumb.
Fold in Rhubarb and Walnuts Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb and walnuts into the batter. This step ensures that the delicious fruit and nut pieces are evenly distributed throughout the bread, creating bites full of flavor and texture. You will love the vibrant color from the rhubarb peeking through!
Pour the Batter Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. This even distribution is essential for uniform baking. As you work, you can already imagine the tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen shortly.
Prepare the Topping In a small bowl, combine the remaining ¼ cup of brown sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the unbaked loaves. This tasty topping creates a caramelized crust that adds flavor and a delightful crunch.
Bake the Bread Place the loaf pans in the preheated oven and bake for 40-60 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The exterior should be golden-brown, and your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma, signaling that something delicious is about to be served. Enjoy your baking!

Substitutions

Can't find a few of these ingredients? No problem! They can easily be replaced with the suggestions below:

Milk: Replace it with almond milk or oat milk. (Use the same measurement for a dairy-free option.)
Lemon Juice: Replace it with apple cider vinegar. (Use 1 tablespoon; it will also activate the milk.)
Vanilla Extract: Replace it with maple syrup. (Use 1 tablespoon for a subtle sweetness.)
Vegetable Oil: Replace it with coconut oil. (Melted coconut oil works beautifully for moisture.)
Chopped Walnuts: Replace it with chopped pecans or sunflower seeds. (Same quantity for a nut-free option.)

Turn It Into A Party!

Turn your gathering into a delightful celebration with Rhubarb Bread! Its sweet-tangy flavor and chewy walnuts make it the perfect crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Serve slices on platters alongside chips and crackers for a chic twist! I can't wait for you to experience the joy of sharing this delicious treat with friends and family! 😉 A few tips if serving for a crowd:

Serve Warm: Warm the bread before serving for that inviting aroma and comforting feel! (A quick 10-15 minutes in the oven at 250°F (120°C) will do wonders!)
Make-Ahead Magic: Bake a day in advance and store the loaves wrapped in foil. (You can even freeze them for up to 3 months—just thaw and warm them up before your party!)
Seasonal Variations: Experiment with flavors by adding fresh strawberries or blueberries to the batter! (This adds a fun pop of color and taste, making it an even more festive treat!)

How to Store and Freeze Rhubarb Bread

Room Temperature: Store your rhubarb bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its delicious moisture and flavor.

Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate the bread for up to a week. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rhubarb bread by wrapping it in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then placing it in a zip-top freezer bag. It will last for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen rhubarb bread, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Warm individual slices in a toaster or microwave until heated through for a delightful treat!

What to Serve with Rhubarb Bread?

Indulging in a slice of freshly baked rhubarb bread is pure bliss, but pairing it with delightful accompaniments can elevate the experience to new heights.

Fresh Cream Cheese: A dollop of cream cheese adds a smooth, tangy contrast that enhances the bread's fruity notes.
Honey Drizzle: Drizzling honey over warm slices brings a touch of natural sweetness, balancing the rhubarb's tartness beautifully.
Crunchy Granola: Serve a side of crunchy granola for a lovely textural contrast; its nutty flavor complements the bread's walnut bits.
Apple Cinnamon Compote: This warm compote introduces an additional layer of flavor, perfectly harmonizing with the rhubarb's tang.
Iced Tea: A glass of refreshing iced tea, perhaps with a hint of lemon, offers a light and invigorating complement to the rich bread.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent treat, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, delighting in the warm-cold sensation.
Greek Yogurt: A side of Greek yogurt provides a creamy, slightly tart pairing that can enhance the bread's richness.
Spiced Chai: Sip on a warm cup of spiced chai, as its aromatic spices beautifully echo the cinnamon notes in the bread.
Berry Salad: A medley of fresh berries adds brightness and freshness; their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the tangy rhubarb.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic Rhubarb Bread with Walnuts

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature is essential for ensuring that your bread cooks evenly and thoroughly. While the oven heats up, take a moment to lightly grease two 9x5-inch loaf pans. Proper preparation prevents any sticky surprises and guarantees a beautifully baked loaf.
Combine Milk and Lemon Juice

In a small bowl, stir together the milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This crucial step activates the acidity in the lemon juice, resulting in a creamier mixture that helps create a light, fluffy texture in your bread. You'll appreciate the difference in the final product!
Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of brown sugar, vegetable oil, and the egg. Beat them together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. The oil adds moisture, keeping the bread tender, while the egg binds everything together and adds richness. This is where the sweet flavor starts to form!
Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the flour, salt, and baking soda to the sugar mixture, alternating with the milk mixture. This method is important; it ensures that all ingredients come together without being overmixed. Stir just until combined, allowing for a few lumps—these contribute to a delightful crumb in your final bread.
Fold in Rhubarb and Walnuts

Gently fold the chopped rhubarb and walnuts into the batter. This step is key for even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the bread. Each slice should be bursting with tangy rhubarb and crunchy walnuts! As you fold, admire the vibrant pink color of the rhubarb—it signals freshness and flavor!
Pour the Batter

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. This even distribution ensures uniform baking and helps your loaves rise beautifully. Picture the delicious aroma filling your kitchen as they bake—it's hard not to get excited about this step!
Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the remaining ¼ cup of brown sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon. This topping creates a delicious, caramelized crust that adds not only flavor but also texture to your bread. Generously sprinkle it over the unbaked loaves to ensure every bite is a treat!
Bake the Bread

Place the loaf pans in the preheated oven and bake for 40-60 minutes. The key visual cue for doneness? A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. The exterior should be golden-brown, and when you open the oven door, the mouthwatering aroma will be a clear sign that something delightful is ready to emerge! Enjoy every bite!

Rhubarb Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of rhubarb should I use for my Rhubarb Bread?

Absolutely! Look for vibrant, bright pink stalks of rhubarb that are firm and free from dark spots or blemishes. The best rhubarb stalks are tender with a crisp texture, which will enhance the overall flavor of your bread.

How should I store leftover Rhubarb Bread?

For sure! Store your rhubarb bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to retain its moisture and delicious flavor. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze my Rhubarb Bread? What’s the best way?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze your rhubarb bread for future enjoyment! To do this, let the bread cool completely. Then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and place it in a zip-top freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and warm up individual slices in your toaster or microwave until heated through.

What should I do if my Rhubarb Bread is too dry?

If your rhubarb bread turns out a bit dry, it can happen sometimes! You can slice it into pieces and toast it lightly in a toaster or oven, which can help revive its moisture. Additionally, serving it with a dollop of butter or cream cheese can enhance the flavor and moisture content while you savor each slice.

Are there any dietary considerations I should think about when making Rhubarb Bread?

Definitely! If you're baking for someone with allergies, keep in mind that this recipe uses eggs and walnuts, which are common allergens. You can substitute the egg with a flax egg or applesauce for a vegan option, and if nuts are a concern, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch without the allergens. Enjoy baking!

Maya Rowan