This creamy, cool Layered Rhubarb Pudding Dessert is a potluck favorite featuring layers of buttery sweet graham cracker crust, tart rhubarb, marshmallows, and a thick layer of light vanilla pudding and whipped cream. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it an irresistible treat for any gathering.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust Layer
- 1 1/2 cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs (about 1 sleeve of graham crackers)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
Rhubarb Layer
- 4 cups fresh or frozen rhubarb, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 (3-ounce) box strawberry jello
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
Pudding Layer
- 2 (3.4-ounce) boxes vanilla instant pudding
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Directions
Graham Cracker Crust Layer
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix with a fork until combined, then set aside 1/4 cup of the crumb mixture for later.
- Press the remaining crumb mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes until set.
Rhubarb Filling Layer
- In a large saucepan, combine the rhubarb, sugar, and cornstarch; toss to combine. Add the water, then cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the rhubarb softens and the filling thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the package of strawberry jello until dissolved.
- Pour over the graham cracker crust, then sprinkle with the marshmallows. Refrigerate until chilled, about 1 hour.
Pudding Layer
- In a large bowl, whisk the cold milk and vanilla pudding mix together for 2 minutes until it starts to set.
- In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream with the powdered sugar using a hand mixer until soft peaks form.
- Fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture, then spread over the chilled rhubarb layer.
- Sprinkle with the reserved graham cracker crumb mixture.
- Chill for at least 2 hours to firm up, then slice and serve.
Nutritional Facts
Per serving:
- Calories: 208 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 24 mg
- Sodium: 148 mg
- Potassium: 119 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 26 g
- Vitamin A: 303 IU
- Vitamin C: 2 mg
- Calcium: 64 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
History and Origin of Rhubarb Desserts
Rhubarb, often mistaken for a fruit, is actually a vegetable. Despite its vegetable roots, it is commonly used as a fruit in desserts due to its naturally sweet-tart flavor profile. Rhubarb has been used in cooking for centuries, originating from China, where it was initially valued for its medicinal properties. It wasn’t until the 18th century that rhubarb began to be cultivated for culinary use in Europe and North America.
In the United States, rhubarb has a rich tradition in pies and other sweet dishes, particularly in the Midwest. The combination of rhubarb with sugar in desserts has become a staple in American cuisine. The tartness of rhubarb pairs wonderfully with rich, sweet ingredients like cream, sugar, and vanilla, making it an ideal choice for layered desserts like the Layered Rhubarb Pudding Dessert.
Why Layered Rhubarb Pudding Dessert is a Crowd-Pleaser
One of the standout features of the Layered Rhubarb Pudding Dessert is its balance of flavors and textures. The buttery graham cracker crust provides a crisp, slightly sweet foundation that contrasts perfectly with the tart rhubarb layer. The rhubarb, once cooked and mixed with strawberry jello, turns into a thick, tangy layer that adds depth to the dessert.
On top of this tangy rhubarb layer sits a rich and smooth vanilla pudding, topped with fluffy whipped cream, making each bite a heavenly combination of creamy, sweet, and tart. The dessert is finished off with a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for an added crunch and flavor. This balance of textures – crunchy, creamy, and tangy – is one of the reasons why this dessert is a favorite for so many.
The Importance of Rhubarb in Layered Desserts
Rhubarb is often the unsung hero in desserts, overshadowed by more popular fruits like strawberries or apples. However, when used in the right way, rhubarb adds a unique and refreshing tartness that enhances the flavor profile of a dessert. In the Layered Rhubarb Pudding Dessert, rhubarb acts as the perfect contrast to the sweet elements of the dish.
What makes rhubarb particularly special is that it balances sweetness without overwhelming the other flavors. Unlike fruits that are inherently sweet, rhubarb’s tartness is tempered by sugar, making it the perfect base for desserts like this pudding. The addition of strawberry jello in the rhubarb layer helps to mellow out the tanginess, creating a well-rounded flavor that complements the other components of the dessert.
Creating the Perfect Texture in Layered Desserts
One of the challenges in creating a layered dessert like this one is ensuring that each layer maintains its distinct texture while still melding together harmoniously. The graham cracker crust must be firm enough to support the rest of the layers, while the rhubarb filling should have a slightly thicker consistency to avoid being too runny.
The pudding layer plays a pivotal role in this dessert as it provides a smooth and velvety texture that contrasts against the crunch of the crust and the tanginess of the rhubarb. Whipping the cream separately ensures it remains light and airy, which adds a fluffy texture to the dessert that balances the denser layers beneath.
How to Prepare the Rhubarb Layer
The key to preparing the rhubarb layer is to cook it gently, allowing it to break down without becoming too mushy. When cooked with sugar and cornstarch, the rhubarb releases its natural juices, which thicken into a jam-like consistency. The addition of strawberry jello provides a burst of flavor and helps set the filling, ensuring that it doesn’t slide around when the dessert is sliced.
When preparing rhubarb for this dessert, it’s important to keep in mind that fresh rhubarb works best, although frozen rhubarb can also be used if fresh isn’t available. The rhubarb should be chopped into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and consistency in the final layer. Overcooking rhubarb can cause it to become too soft, so it’s crucial to monitor the cooking process carefully.
Tips for Success in Making Layered Rhubarb Pudding Dessert
-
Use Fresh Rhubarb: While frozen rhubarb can be used in a pinch, fresh rhubarb provides the best texture and flavor. Look for stalks that are firm and have vibrant color. Avoid using rhubarb with any signs of wilting or discoloration.
-
Allow Layers to Set: Each layer of the dessert should be allowed to set properly before adding the next. This ensures that the layers maintain their shape and don’t blend together. Allow the graham cracker crust to cool completely before adding the rhubarb layer, and let the rhubarb layer chill before spreading the pudding.
-
Whip the Cream to Soft Peaks: The whipped cream layer is essential for adding a light and airy texture to the dessert. Be sure to whip the cream just until soft peaks form – over-whipping can lead to a grainy texture.
-
Chill Before Serving: After assembling the dessert, it’s crucial to allow it to chill in the refrigerator for several hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the layers to firm up and the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more cohesive dessert.
The Versatility of Layered Rhubarb Pudding Dessert
While the classic version of this dessert is delicious as is, there are several ways to personalize it. For example, the rhubarb layer can be flavored with different types of fruit jello, such as orange or raspberry, to create new flavor profiles. Additionally, for those who prefer a more decadent dessert, you can experiment with different types of pudding or even add a layer of cream cheese for extra richness.
For a more seasonal variation, try incorporating other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries into the rhubarb filling. The tartness of rhubarb pairs exceptionally well with a variety of fruits, and the dessert will still maintain its delicious balance of flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Layered Rhubarb Pudding Dessert can be served on its own or paired with other dishes for a well-rounded meal. This dessert is perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or any gathering that calls for a refreshing and indulgent treat. It also makes a lovely addition to holiday spreads, especially during spring when rhubarb is in season.
For a more festive presentation, garnish the dessert with additional whipped cream, fresh mint leaves, or even a few extra rhubarb stalks sliced thinly for a decorative touch. The vibrant colors of the rhubarb filling and whipped cream make this dessert as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Conclusion
Layered Rhubarb Pudding Dessert is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dessert that is both comforting and refreshing. With its balance of tart rhubarb, creamy pudding, and buttery graham cracker crust, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just as a treat for family and friends, it’s a versatile and delightful dish that will be enjoyed by all.