This Rhubarb Breakfast Cake combines the tartness of fresh rhubarb with the soft, moist crumb of a perfect cake, topped with a sweet, crunchy brown sugar finish. The tangy sweetness makes it an ideal treat to enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Whether you’re serving it as a breakfast cake, brunch treat, or an afternoon snack, this cake brings a delightful balance of textures and flavors. The added walnuts provide a nice crunch, but they can easily be omitted if you prefer a smoother texture. Perfect for those who love a sweet-and-tangy twist on their morning routine!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups rhubarb, chopped
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 cup sugar
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2 large eggs
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup walnuts (optional)
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1/4 cup brown sugar for topping
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
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In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
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In a large bowl, beat together the sugar, eggs, sour cream, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until well combined.
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Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb and walnuts if using.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with brown sugar.
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Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Kcal: 245 kcal | Servings: 9 servings
The Ultimate Rhubarb Breakfast Cake: A Perfect Morning Treat
Rhubarb is a beloved ingredient that signifies the arrival of spring in many kitchens. Its tartness, when paired with the right flavors, can create truly irresistible baked goods. One such delightful treat is the Rhubarb Breakfast Cake, a recipe that brings together the tangy bite of fresh rhubarb with a soft, moist cake base. It’s the kind of recipe that will fill your home with a sweet, comforting aroma and leave everyone eager to dig in. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee, as a brunch treat, or for a satisfying snack later in the day, this cake will soon become one of your favorites.
Why Rhubarb is Perfect for Breakfast Cakes
Rhubarb has a unique place in the world of baking. Though it’s technically a vegetable, its tartness and bright color make it a perfect complement to desserts, especially when paired with sugar or sweeter fruits. When used in a breakfast cake, rhubarb adds both flavor and texture, providing a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake itself.
The addition of rhubarb in a breakfast cake is not just for its flavor, though. Rhubarb is also packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a great choice for adding a healthful twist to your morning routine. Its fiber content can help you feel full and satisfied, making it a solid choice for those who want to start their day with something nourishing but still indulgent.
The Allure of Rhubarb Breakfast Cake
This cake isn’t overly sweet, which makes it a perfect choice for those who don’t want to start their day with a sugary overload. The rhubarb’s natural tartness balances beautifully with the cake’s soft, moist texture. It’s just sweet enough, with a hint of cinnamon that complements the rhubarb’s bold flavor.
One of the most appealing things about Rhubarb Breakfast Cake is how versatile it is. Whether you’re looking to make a quick weekday breakfast or a special weekend treat, this recipe fits the bill. It’s a great option for those who are hosting brunch or even for a casual get-together with friends. You can serve it as is, or pair it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a more indulgent experience.
Making Rhubarb Cake at Home: Tips and Tricks
Baking this cake at home is incredibly simple, but a few tips can help you achieve the best results. Here are some key things to keep in mind when making Rhubarb Breakfast Cake:
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Choosing the Right Rhubarb: Always opt for fresh rhubarb when making this cake. Fresh rhubarb has vibrant, pink stems that bring both color and flavor to the dish. Avoid rhubarb that is overly wilted or has a dull color, as it may have lost its freshness and flavor.
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Prep Your Rhubarb: Rhubarb stalks should be washed thoroughly, trimmed at both ends, and cut into small pieces. You don’t need to peel rhubarb for baking, but be sure to remove any leaves as they contain oxalic acid, which can be toxic.
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Adjusting Sweetness: The tartness of rhubarb varies depending on the season and the specific plant. If you’re using very tart rhubarb, you might want to increase the amount of sugar in the recipe or add a bit more brown sugar on top for an extra sweet crunch.
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Make it Moist: One of the hallmarks of a great breakfast cake is its moist texture. Using sour cream or yogurt in the batter helps to keep the cake moist and tender. These ingredients also contribute to a slight tanginess, which pairs perfectly with the rhubarb.
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Topping for Texture: A simple sprinkling of brown sugar on top of the cake before baking creates a beautiful caramelized crust. It adds texture and a bit of extra sweetness, which perfectly balances the tart rhubarb.
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Let it Cool: While it’s tempting to dive into a warm slice straight out of the oven, letting the cake cool slightly before serving will give the flavors time to meld and the texture to settle.
Health Benefits of Rhubarb
Rhubarb isn’t just a delicious addition to cakes and pies it’s also a healthful ingredient that offers several benefits. For starters, rhubarb is an excellent source of vitamin K, which is important for bone health. It’s also high in fiber, which supports digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Additionally, rhubarb is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against free radical damage and support overall health. With its low calorie count and high nutrient density, rhubarb can be part of a balanced diet that supports your well-being while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
Variations of Rhubarb Breakfast Cake
While the traditional Rhubarb Breakfast Cake is delightful on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to consider:
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Add Other Fruits: While rhubarb is the star of the show, you can easily add other fruits to the cake for additional flavor. Strawberries, raspberries, or even blueberries would complement the tartness of the rhubarb and add natural sweetness.
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Make it Vegan: If you’re following a vegan diet, you can easily substitute the eggs and dairy with plant-based alternatives. Use flax eggs or chia eggs as an egg replacer, and swap the sour cream and butter for non-dairy versions like coconut yogurt and vegan butter.
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Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version of the cake, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the other ingredients you use are also gluten-free, particularly the baking powder and soda.
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Add Nuts or Seeds: For a bit of extra crunch and nutrition, sprinkle chopped walnuts, almonds, or chia seeds into the batter or on top of the cake before baking.
Why You’ll Love Rhubarb Breakfast Cake
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this Rhubarb Breakfast Cake is a foolproof recipe that yields delicious results every time. Its balanced flavor profile and moist texture make it the perfect breakfast treat or an afternoon snack to enjoy with a cup of tea. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation ensure that this cake can be made on a whim and shared with family or friends.
The combination of the tart rhubarb and sweet cake is undeniably delicious, and it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite when rhubarb is in its prime. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of day, making it a perfect addition to your baking repertoire.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Rhubarb Breakfast Cake is the ideal way to enjoy this seasonal fruit. It’s simple to make, delicious, and versatile enough to cater to various dietary preferences. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this cake is sure to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen.
This cake is more than just a treat; it’s a celebration of spring’s vibrant flavors and the joy of sharing homemade goodness with those you love. With its perfect balance of tart rhubarb and moist cake, it’s a recipe that will have you coming back for more.