This Easy Rhubarb Dessert with Jello is a delightful combination of tangy rhubarb and sweet cherry or strawberry gelatin, layered over a tender crust and topped with a buttery crumble. Perfect for spring gatherings or as a sweet treat to enjoy year-round, this dessert can be served warm with a scoop of ice cream or cooled and cut into bars. Its vibrant color and balanced flavors are sure to please both rhubarb enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 heaping tablespoon sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoons butter
1/8 teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)
1 large egg
1 tablespoon milk (you may need 1 more)

For the Filling:

3 cups rhubarb (approximately 1 pound), sliced or chopped
1 small box (3 ounces) cherry or strawberry Jello

For the Topping:

1 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour

Directions

Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with shortening or butter.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 heaping tablespoon sugar, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/8 teaspoon salt.
- Cut in 2 tablespoons butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add 1 large egg and 1 tablespoon milk; mix until a dough forms. If the mixture is too dry, add an additional tablespoon of milk.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
Add the Filling:
- Evenly distribute the sliced rhubarb over the crust.
- Sprinkle the dry Jello mix over the rhubarb layer.
Prepare the Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup butter, and 1/2 cup all-purpose flour. Mix until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the rhubarb and Jello layer.
Bake the Dessert:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack.
- Serve warm with ice cream or allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (assuming 8 servings):

Calories: 375 kcal
Carbohydrates: 57 g
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Cholesterol: 59 mg
Sodium: 188 mg
Potassium: 228 mg
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 36 g
Vitamin A: 520 IU
Vitamin C: 3.6 mg
Calcium: 77 mg
Iron: 1.3 mg

History and Origin of Rhubarb in Desserts

Rhubarb has been used for culinary purposes for centuries, but it gained popularity in the 19th century when it began to be incorporated into pies, jams, and other desserts. Native to Asia, rhubarb was initially used for medicinal purposes in ancient times due to its high content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The first recorded use of rhubarb in cooking dates back to the 1700s in Europe, where it was commonly used in savory dishes and jams.

The tradition of using rhubarb in sweet dishes likely started as people discovered its ability to balance rich, sugary desserts with its tart, sour flavor. In the United States, rhubarb became popular in the 19th century, particularly in the Midwest, where it grew abundantly. Today, rhubarb is often used in pies, crisps, cobblers, and other baked goods, with rhubarb pie being a quintessential American dessert.

The addition of Jello to rhubarb desserts is a more modern twist. The convenience of Jello, which sets easily and is available in a variety of fruity flavors, makes it a perfect pairing with rhubarb in baked goods. The gelatin layers in this dessert not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to a beautiful, vibrant color that is visually appealing.

Why This Rhubarb Dessert Is So Special

What sets this rhubarb dessert apart is its combination of textures and flavors. The crust provides a sturdy base that holds the layers together, giving the dessert structure. The rhubarb filling is tart and slightly tangy, balanced by the sweetness of the gelatin. The topping, with its crumbly buttery texture, contrasts beautifully with the soft, baked layers below. This dessert offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures in every bite.

Another standout feature of this dessert is its versatility. It can be served warm, making it an excellent option for cooler months or as a comforting dessert after a hearty meal. Alternatively, it can be chilled and cut into bars, making it a refreshing treat for warmer weather and picnics. Either way, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

This recipe also offers flexibility in terms of flavor. While the classic version uses cherry or strawberry Jello, you can experiment with other flavors of gelatin to suit your taste preferences. Raspberry, orange, or lemon gelatin would all pair well with the tartness of rhubarb. The beauty of this dessert is that it’s customizable to your liking while maintaining the perfect balance between the tangy rhubarb and sweet gelatin.

Health Benefits of Rhubarb

While rhubarb is often used in desserts, it’s also packed with nutrients that can benefit your health. Rhubarb is low in calories but high in fiber, making it a great choice for those looking to improve their digestion. It’s also rich in antioxidants, which help fight oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Rhubarb contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium.

One of the most significant health benefits of rhubarb is its ability to support digestive health. Rhubarb is a natural source of dietary fiber, which helps to promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation. The fiber in rhubarb also supports a healthy gut microbiome, which is important for overall health.

Rhubarb also has anti-inflammatory properties due to its high levels of antioxidants. Inflammation is linked to a variety of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. The antioxidants in rhubarb, such as anthocyanins, may help reduce inflammation and protect the body from disease.

Pairing Rhubarb Dessert with Other Dishes

Rhubarb dessert with Jello can be served as a standalone treat or paired with other dishes for a more elaborate meal. When serving this dessert, consider pairing it with a light salad or grilled meats for a balanced meal. The tartness of the rhubarb works well with savory flavors, and it can serve as a refreshing contrast to heavier, richer dishes.

For example, a grilled chicken salad with fresh herbs and a citrus vinaigrette would pair nicely with the sweetness and tang of the rhubarb dessert. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the dessert, creating a well-rounded meal.

If you’re hosting a dinner party or gathering, you could also serve this dessert alongside other classic American favorites like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. The key is to balance the sweetness of the dessert with the savory elements of your meal.

Creative Variations of Rhubarb Dessert

This rhubarb dessert with Jello can be customized in several ways to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas to try:

Add Other Fruits: You can mix other fruits with the rhubarb to create a more complex flavor profile. For example, add strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries to the rhubarb filling for a burst of additional sweetness and color.
Use Different Gelatin Flavors: As mentioned earlier, you can experiment with different Jello flavors to change the taste of the dessert. Raspberry, orange, or lemon gelatin would all pair well with rhubarb.
Make It Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version of this dessert, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your gelatin is gluten-free as well.
Use a Crumble Topping: Instead of the buttery crumb topping, you can opt for a streusel-style topping made with oats, nuts, and spices for added texture and flavor.
Serve with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: While the dessert is delicious on its own, serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream will take it to the next level.

Conclusion

Rhubarb dessert with Jello is a delightful and easy-to-make treat that combines the natural tartness of rhubarb with the sweet, fruity flavors of gelatin. This dessert is perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual family meals to festive gatherings. It offers a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Not only is this dessert delicious, but it also offers some health benefits due to the nutrients found in rhubarb. Whether you’re enjoying it warm with a scoop of ice cream or served chilled in bars, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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