Rhubarb Crisp: A Sweet Spring Treat for Seeding Season

As the tractors roll and the days stretch long, spring on the farm is both thrilling and exhausting. Seeding season demands early mornings, late nights, and meals that can travel out to the field or feed a hardworking crew. But amidst the hustle, there’s comfort in simple homemade treats—and nothing says spring quite like rhubarb crisp. If you’ve got a rhubarb patch just starting to flourish (or a neighbor generous enough to share), this recipe is a must-bake. It’s quick, hearty, and hits that sweet-tart spot just right. Perfect with a scoop of ice cream or a splash of cream, this crisp is a nostalgic farm favorite—and one the whole crew will appreciate. ⸻ Farm Kitchen Rhubarb Crisp Recipe Ingredients For the filling: • 4 cups chopped fresh rhubarb • 1 cup white sugar • 1 tablespoon cornstarch • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For the topping: • 1 cup rolled oats • 1 cup all-purpose flour • 1 cup packed brown sugar • 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed • 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional) ⸻ Instructions 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or an 8x8 for a thicker crisp. 3. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, toss rhubarb with sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla. Pour into your baking dish. 4. Make the topping: In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the butter until the mixture is crumbly. 5. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the rhubarb. 6. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. 7. Cool slightly, then serve warm. It’s perfect with ice cream or a drizzle of farm-fresh cream. ⸻ Why It Works for Seeding Time • Make ahead: Bake in the morning and it’s ready for afternoon coffee time or supper dessert. • Feeds a crew: Easy to double and serve in foil pans for quick cleanup. • Field-friendly: Serve in jars or containers with lids for a sweet field treat. • Seasonal & simple: Uses ingredients likely already in your kitchen or garden. ⸻ Farm Wife Tip: If your rhubarb is especially tart, mix in a handful of chopped strawberries or a bit more sugar to balance the flavor. ⸻ In the whirlwind of seeding, it’s the little comforts—like a warm rhubarb crisp fresh from the oven—that keep everyone going. Whether you’re feeding kids, fueling a partner on the tractor, or packing a treat for the field, this recipe brings a taste of spring to the busiest days on the farm.