Rhubarb Apple Crisp

This Rhubarb Apple Crisp recipe is best served warm and paired with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.  

Rhubarb Apple Crisp is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of apples, and then topped with a crunchy oatmeal mixture. 

I like to make this recipe each spring with the fresh rhubarb that is plentiful in our garden.  This delicious dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting dessert. 

I will explain how to properly harvest rhubarb, walk you through a step-by-step recipe for making the apple rhubarb crisp recipe, and making suggestions on what to serve alongside this delectable treat. 

Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or with your favorite toppings, this crisp is sure to become a favorite in your household.  It is a favorite in my family.

Rhubarb Apple Crisp is the perfect start of summer dessert to make for your family and friends!  A little sweet and a little tart, along with a little crunch from the oat topping all pairs well together.  

Watch the Video to Make the Crisp Recipe

If you learn better from watching a video to make a recipe, then you will want to check this out below. I will show you how I harvest my own rhubarb and how to put the whole baked dessert together.

How to Properly Harvest Rhubarb

Harvesting rhubarb correctly is crucial to ensure the plant’s health and the quality of the stalks you use in your recipes.

Rhubarb is one of these plants that when it is planted and taken care of, it will keep on coming back year after year and is usually the first thing that pops in the garden come springtime.  Here’s a quick guide on how to do it:

1. Timing: The best time to harvest rhubarb is in the spring and early summer. The stalks should be firm and reach a length of 10-15 inches.
2. Choosing Stalks: Look for crisp stalks that are brightly colored. The leaves should be fully developed, as immature leaves indicate that the stalks are not ready for harvest.
3. Harvesting Technique: Grasp the stalk close to the base and pull it gently but firmly away from the plant. If the stalk resists, you can use a knife to cut it cleanly at the base. Avoid cutting too many stalks from a single plant; leave at least one-third of the plant intact to ensure it continues to thrive.
4. Safety Note: Only the stalks of rhubarb are edible. The leaves contain oxalic acid and are toxic if ingested, so be sure to discard them immediately. 
5. Wash Thoroughly:  Make sure to wash the stalks with cold water to remove all the dirt.  There is nothing worse than biting into the crisp recipe and chewing sand!

Tip: Do not use rhubarb leaves because they contain poisonous substances which can be harmful to humans. You can compost rhubarb leaves because the oxalic acid is broken down and diluted during the decomposition process.

Does Rhubarb need to be Peeled for this Rhubarb Apple Crisp?  

Bigger Rhubarb stalks will sometimes get stringy so treat them like you would a celery stalk.  I prefer smaller stalks, so I don’t have to peel away the stringy skin. 

How to Make Rhubarb Apple Crisp

Gather all the ingredients needed to make your crisp recipe. You want to use fresh rhubarb that is free of blemish’s, is crisp, and tender.

Harvest, wash, and dice the rhubarb into small pieces. Peel your apples, remove the core, and slice into thin pieces. Place the prepared fruit into a baking pan. The pan should be two thirds full of the fruit.

Add the sugar and the corn starch to the fruit and toss to completely coat. Prepare the crumb topping and spread an even layer on top of the fruit mixture.

How to Bake the Crisp Recipe

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Once the oven is hot, place the pan on the oven rack. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes until the crisp is bubbling around the edges and in the center.

You want the fruit to be tender cooked and not crisp. When the rhubarb apple crisp is done, remove from the oven.

What to Serve with Rhubarb Apple Crisp

Rhubarb Apple Crisp is versatile and pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Here are a few suggestions:

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement to the warm, fruity crisp.
• Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a delightful contrast to the rich crisp.
• Custard Sauce: A drizzle of warm custard sauce can enhance the flavors and provide an extra layer of indulgence.
• Fresh Berries: Add a handful of fresh berries for a burst of color and extra flavor.
• Greek Yogurt: For a healthier option, serve your crisp with a dollop of Greek yogurt.