Rhubarb Cookies

by

Indulge in the perfect balance of tangy rhubarb and sweet brown sugar with our irresistible Rhubarb Cookies recipe. These delightful treats are not only easy to make but are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. With a soft, chewy texture and a creamy cream cheese frosting, these cookies are a must-try for any baking enthusiast. Follow along with our simple step-by-step guide to create your own batch of Rhubarb Cookies today!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup softened butter
  • 1 ½ cups brown sugar
  • 2 eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ¾ cups quick-cooking oatmeal
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 ½ cups finely diced rhubarb
  • 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
  • 4 tablespoons softened butter
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1-3 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, quick-cooking oatmeal, salt, cinnamon, and baking soda.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
  6. Gently fold in the finely diced rhubarb until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  7. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly browned around the edges.
  9. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Cream Cheese Frosting Directions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat together the room temperature cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is smooth and well combined.
  3. If needed, add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency for spreading.
  4. Once the cookies have cooled completely, generously frost each cookie with the cream cheese frosting.

Serving and Storage Tips

Once you’ve baked up a batch of these delightful Rhubarb Cookies, here are some tips to ensure they’re served at their best and stored for future enjoyment:

Serving Suggestions:

  1. Freshly Frosted: These cookies are best enjoyed freshly frosted when the cream cheese frosting is at its creamiest. Serve them alongside a glass of cold milk for a classic pairing.
  2. Afternoon Tea Delight: Elevate your afternoon tea or coffee break by serving these cookies as a sweet accompaniment. Their tangy flavor pairs perfectly with a hot beverage.
  3. Dessert Buffet Favorite: Impress guests at your next gathering by adding these cookies to your dessert buffet. They offer a refreshing change from traditional cookies and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Storage Tips:

  1. Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
  2. Refrigeration: If you’ve frosted the cookies and have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator to preserve the cream cheese frosting. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.
  3. Freezing: To extend their shelf life, you can also freeze both unfrosted and frosted cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen cookies overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Variations :

Looking to add a creative twist to your Rhubarb Cookies? Here are some delightful variations to customize this classic recipe and tantalize your taste buds:

1. Citrus Zest Infusion: Add a burst of citrus flavor by incorporating the zest of a lemon, orange, or lime into the cookie dough. The bright, tangy notes will complement the tartness of the rhubarb beautifully.

2. Nutty Crunch: For added texture and flavor, fold in a half cup of chopped nuts such as pecans, almonds, or walnuts into the cookie dough. The nuttiness will provide a satisfying crunch to every bite.

3. Spiced Sensation: Enhance the warmth and depth of flavor by increasing the cinnamon in the recipe or adding a dash of ground nutmeg, cloves, or ginger. These aromatic spices will elevate the overall taste profile of the cookies.

4. Chocolate Indulgence: For chocolate lovers, mix in a half cup of chocolate chips or chunks into the dough for a decadent treat. The combination of sweet chocolate and tangy rhubarb creates an irresistible flavor contrast.

5. Berry Bonanza: Incorporate additional fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries along with the rhubarb for a burst of sweetness and vibrant color. These juicy berries will add complexity to the cookie’s flavor profile.

6. Maple Glaze Drizzle: Instead of cream cheese frosting, opt for a maple glaze by combining powdered sugar with maple syrup until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies for a sweet and maple-infused finish.

7. Almond Essence Elegance: Add a touch of sophistication by incorporating almond extract into the cookie dough. The subtle almond flavor will complement the tartness of the rhubarb and add a hint of floral sweetness.

8. Savory Surprise: For a unique twist, experiment with savory elements such as a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking or a pinch of black pepper in the dough. The savory notes will balance out the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor profile.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use frozen rhubarb instead of fresh? Yes, frozen rhubarb can be used in this recipe. However, be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid before incorporating it into the cookie dough.
  2. Can I omit the cream cheese frosting? Absolutely! While the cream cheese frosting adds a deliciously creamy finish, these cookies are just as tasty without it. You can enjoy them plain or dusted with powdered sugar if preferred.
  3. Can I substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a portion or all of the all-purpose flour in this recipe. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour may yield a slightly denser texture.
  4. How do I store leftover cream cheese frosted cookies? Store leftover cream cheese frosted cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
  5. Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time and freeze it? Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time, shape it into balls, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
  6. How do I know when the cookies are done baking? The cookies are done baking when they are lightly browned around the edges and set in the middle. They may still appear slightly soft, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
  7. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe? Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences. However, keep in mind that reducing the sugar may affect the texture and sweetness of the cookies.
  8. Can I add other fruits besides rhubarb? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits such as apples, pears, or peaches in place of or in addition to the rhubarb for a unique twist on the recipe.
  9. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking? To prevent excessive spreading, make sure your butter is not too soft and that your dough is thoroughly chilled before baking. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the cookie sheet and ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature.
  10. Are these cookies suitable for special dietary needs? While this recipe contains dairy and gluten-containing ingredients, you can explore alternative options such as dairy-free butter, gluten-free flour blends, and dairy-free cream cheese to accommodate special dietary needs. Always check ingredient labels for allergens and dietary restrictions.

With these creative variations, you can elevate your Rhubarb Cookies to new heights and tailor them to suit your personal taste preferences. Whether you’re craving a citrusy zest, a nutty crunch, or a chocolate indulgence, there’s a variation for every palate to enjoy. Get creative in the kitchen and discover your favorite twist on this classic recipe!