What Does Rhubarb Do in Baking?

Rhubarb is a versatile ingredient that can add a unique flavor to your baking. With its tart and tangy taste, it can be a perfect addition to any dessert, from pies to cakes to muffins. Rhubarb is often used in combination with sweet ingredients such as sugar and strawberries to balance out its tartness.

But what exactly does rhubarb do in baking? In this article, we’ll explore the role of rhubarb in baked goods and how you can use it to take your baking to the next level.

Why Use Rhubarb in Baking?

Rhubarb is an ingredient that is widely used in baking. Its unique taste and texture can add a new dimension to your desserts. Rhubarb is not only delicious but also healthy. It is a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, making it an ideal ingredient for people who want to eat healthily.

The Benefits of Rhubarb in Baked Goods

Here are some benefits of using rhubarb in your baked goods:

1. Adds a unique flavor: Rhubarb has a tart and tangy taste that can balance out the sweetness in your desserts.
2. Adds texture: When cooked, rhubarb becomes soft and tender, which can add a new texture to your baked goods.
3. Adds color: The bright red and pink hues of rhubarb can add a pop of color to your desserts.
4. Provides health benefits: Rhubarb is a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, making it a healthy addition to your baking.

Techniques for Using Rhubarb in Baking

Here are some techniques for using rhubarb in your baking:

1. Stewing: Stewed rhubarb is a popular way to use rhubarb in baking. To stew rhubarb, chop it into small pieces, and cook it on the stovetop with sugar and water until it becomes tender.
2. Baking: Rhubarb can be used in pies, cakes, and muffins. To use rhubarb in baking, chop it into small pieces and mix it with other ingredients in the recipe.
3. Freezing: If you have an abundance of rhubarb, you can freeze it for later use. To freeze rhubarb, wash and chop it into small pieces and place it in a freezer bag.

Common Baked Goods That Use Rhubarb

Here are some common baked goods that use rhubarb:

1. Rhubarb pie: Rhubarb pie is a classic dessert that uses stewed rhubarb as a filling.
2. Rhubarb crisp: Rhubarb crisp is a dessert that uses chopped rhubarb as a filling and a crumbly topping.
3. Rhubarb cake: Rhubarb cake is a moist and flavorful cake that uses chopped rhubarb in the batter.