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Perfect Brown Sugar Rhubarb Cake

brown sugar rhubarb cake - featured image

A cozy, easy-to-make brown sugar rhubarb cake perfect for farmhouse mornings, balancing tart rhubarb with caramel-like sweetness and a tender crumb.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar (preferably dark brown sugar)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt as substitute)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
  5. Stir in sour cream until the batter is creamy and slightly thick.
  6. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients just until combined, avoiding overmixing.
  7. Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb, being careful not to break up the pieces.
  8. Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Optionally, sprinkle a little brown sugar on top for a caramelized crust.
  9. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and edges are golden brown.
  10. Cool completely on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs and butter for best texture. Fold ingredients gently to avoid toughening the cake. If rhubarb is very tart, toss with a tablespoon of sugar before folding in. Watch baking time closely to avoid dryness. For crunch, add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans before baking. Frozen rhubarb must be thawed and drained well to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

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