Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread is a moist, flavorful quick bread that showcases the tartness of fresh rhubarb balanced with the richness of buttermilk and sour cream. This easy-to-make loaf is perfect for spring and summer baking, offering a delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Its simplicity and versatility make it a seasonal favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 cups rhubarb, diced

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Grease a loaf pan.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, egg, sour cream, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Set aside.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until almost combined.
6. Fold in the diced rhubarb until evenly distributed.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the bread in the pan for 15 minutes.
10. Remove from the pan and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (1 slice, yields 12 servings):

• Calories: 258
• Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 39mg
• Sodium: 335mg
• Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 14g
• Protein: 5g

The Versatility of Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread

One of the most appealing aspects of this bread is its versatility. It can be enjoyed as part of a leisurely weekend breakfast, served at a brunch gathering, or sliced for a mid-afternoon snack with tea or coffee. The tangy-sweet flavor makes it a crowd-pleaser, and its moist texture ensures it doesn’t dry out quickly, making it perfect for sharing.

The bread can also be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Some may choose to add nuts such as chopped walnuts or pecans, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger could easily be incorporated to enhance the warmth of the bread. The beauty of this recipe is that it allows for creative variation while maintaining its core flavors of rhubarb and buttermilk.

Rhubarb: The Star Ingredient

Rhubarb is an often-underutilized vegetable that shines in this bread recipe. Known for its vibrant red stalks, rhubarb has a distinct tart flavor, which is why it pairs so well with the sweetness of the sugar in the bread. While rhubarb is technically a vegetable, it is most commonly treated as a fruit in culinary applications due to its flavor profile.

In addition to its tartness, rhubarb has several health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. Rhubarb also contains fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Its high water content helps keep the bread moist, which is a key factor in ensuring the loaf stays tender for several days.

When preparing rhubarb for this recipe, it is important to use only the tender stalks, as the leaves of the rhubarb plant are toxic and should not be consumed. The stalks, however, are safe and delicious when cooked. The diced rhubarb in this bread recipe softens as it bakes, infusing the bread with its unique flavor while adding a pleasant texture.

The Role of Buttermilk in Baking

Buttermilk is an essential ingredient in many baked goods, and in this recipe, it plays a pivotal role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Buttermilk is a fermented dairy product with a tangy, acidic flavor, which helps tenderize the gluten in the flour. This leads to a softer, more delicate crumb that is moist but not overly dense.

Buttermilk also helps activate baking soda, which is a key leavening agent in this bread. The acid in the buttermilk reacts with the alkaline baking soda, causing the batter to rise and become light and airy. Without this combination of buttermilk and baking soda, the bread might not achieve its characteristic lift and softness.

In addition to its leavening power, buttermilk adds a mild tang to the bread that complements the sweetness of the sugar and the tartness of the rhubarb. This balance of flavors is what makes Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread so satisfying and delicious.

The Importance of Sour Cream

Sour cream is another crucial ingredient in this recipe, contributing to the bread’s moist texture and rich flavor. Like buttermilk, sour cream adds a mild tanginess that enhances the overall flavor of the bread. However, sour cream also has a slightly thicker consistency, which helps to keep the bread moist even after it has cooled.

In baking, sour cream also acts as a tenderizing agent, ensuring that the crumb remains soft and light. The fat content in sour cream helps to improve the texture of the bread, making it more indulgent and satisfying. As with buttermilk, sour cream adds complexity to the flavor profile of the bread without overpowering the other ingredients.

Making the Most of Seasonal Ingredients

Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread is an excellent way to make use of rhubarb during its peak season. Rhubarb typically appears in early spring and lasts into the early summer months. During this time, the stalks are at their most tender and flavorful, making them perfect for baking. This bread recipe allows you to enjoy the fleeting season of rhubarb in a way that preserves its freshness and tangy flavor.

If fresh rhubarb is not available, frozen rhubarb can be used as a substitute. While fresh rhubarb is preferred for its vibrant color and texture, frozen rhubarb can be just as effective in baking. Simply thaw the rhubarb and drain any excess moisture before incorporating it into the batter.

For those who grow their own rhubarb or have access to local farms, this bread recipe offers a perfect way to showcase the fruits (or vegetables) of the season. The vibrant red stalks of rhubarb are visually striking and create a beautiful contrast against the golden crumb of the bread.

How to Serve Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread

Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread is a versatile treat that can be served in a variety of ways. It can be enjoyed plain, allowing the flavors of the rhubarb and buttermilk to shine through. Alternatively, it can be served with a dollop of whipped cream, a smear of butter, or a drizzle of honey for added richness. A slice of this bread also pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of freshly squeezed juice.

For a special occasion or gathering, you can serve the bread alongside other baked goods, such as muffins or scones, creating a delightful spread for a brunch or afternoon tea. The bread can also be sliced and served with fresh fruit, yogurt, or even ice cream for a more indulgent treat.

Storage and Shelf Life

One of the great things about Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread is that it stays fresh for several days after baking. To keep the bread moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can be stored for up to 3-4 days, depending on the humidity in your environment.

Conclusion

Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread is a delightful recipe that brings together the tartness of rhubarb and the richness of buttermilk in a simple yet elegant way. Whether you’re looking for a new breakfast treat, a snack to enjoy with a cup of tea, or a dessert to share with friends and family, this bread is sure to impress. Its moist, tender crumb and balanced flavor make it a perfect addition to any occasion, especially during the spring and summer months when rhubarb is in season.