Name: Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 65 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup Brown Sugar; 1/3 cup Vegetable Oil; 1 piece Egg; 1/2 cup Buttermilk; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1 teaspoon Vanilla; 1 1/2 cups Flour; 1 cup Rhubarb diced; 1/2 cup White Chocolate Chips; 2 tablespoons Sugar; 1 tablespoon Butter melted; 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon

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Every time I take a bite of this Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen during the spring. The air was rich with the scent of fresh rhubarb, mingling with the warm aroma of baking bread. There was something magical about those moments, as we would gather around the table, laughter filling the air, and this delightful bread was the centerpiece. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of the season, bringing together the tangy flavor of rhubarb with the comfort of buttermilk, resulting in a loaf that’s both tender and flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a perfect breakfast treat or a sweet snack throughout the day, this bread captures the essence of spring in every slice.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 20 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
65 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
190 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Cutting Board, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan

Why This Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread Is So Good

A True Spring Delight

There’s a reason why I cherish this Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread. Rhubarb is one of those ingredients that brings a unique tang and freshness, making it a star of the spring season. Its vibrant color and tartness create a contrast that shines through the sweet, moist bread. You’ll find that every bite is a delightful surprise, especially when paired with white chocolate chips, which add a creamy sweetness that balances the tartness beautifully.

Versatile and Easy

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a breakfast treat slathered with butter or as a delightful dessert paired with a cup of tea. The simplicity of this bread makes it approachable for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, it allows for creativity—consider adding your favorite nuts or spices to personalize it further.

A Nostalgic Twist

For me, this Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread carries nostalgia. It reminds me of family gatherings where we would share stories over slices of this soft, flavorful loaf. It’s a recipe that has been passed down, with each generation adding their flair while respecting the traditional elements. This bread doesn’t just fill your stomach; it fills your heart with memories.

Healthier Indulgence

Another reason to love this bread is its healthful nature. Using buttermilk provides moisture without making it overly rich, allowing you to indulge a little without the guilt. Plus, rhubarb is often praised for its nutritional benefits, including being low in calories and high in fiber. This means you can feel good about sharing it with loved ones.

Perfect for Sharing

This bread is perfect for gatherings or as a gift for friends. Its beautiful appearance and delightful taste make it an excellent choice for brunches or potlucks. You can even slice it up and wrap it as a homemade gift. Everyone will be asking for the recipe, and you’ll have the joy of sharing a piece of your springtime experience.

Everything You Need for Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread

Gathering the right ingredients is a crucial part of creating the perfect Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the right texture and flavor. Fresh rhubarb is the star, while buttermilk adds moisture and richness. Together, they create a delightful balance that will have everyone coming back for more.

3/4 cup Brown Sugar: This provides the necessary sweetness to complement the tartness of the rhubarb.
1/3 cup Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
1 Egg: Acts as a binder and adds richness to the bread.
1/2 cup Buttermilk: Essential for moisture and a slight tang that enhances flavor.
1/2 tsp Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
1/2 tsp Baking Soda: Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
1/4 tsp Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
1 tsp Vanilla: Brings everything together with a hint of aromatic sweetness.
1 1/2 cups Flour: The foundation of the bread, providing structure.
1 cup Rhubarb, diced: The star of the dish, offering tartness and vibrant color.
1/2 cup White Chocolate Chips: Sweet bursts that enhance the overall flavor of the bread.
2 Tbsp Sugar: Used for the topping, adding a sweet crunch.
1 Tbsp Butter, melted: Adds flavor to the topping.
1/4 tsp Cinnamon: Used again in the topping to mirror the flavors of the bread.

How to Cook Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread

Making Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Follow these simple steps to create a loaf that’s sure to impress!

Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is perfect for ensuring even baking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine all of your bread ingredients. This includes brown sugar, vegetable oil, egg, buttermilk, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, vanilla, flour, diced rhubarb, and white chocolate chips. Stir until everything is well combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
Generously grease a bread pan to prevent sticking. This will help your loaf come out easily once baked.
Pour the batter into the greased pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. It should be even and level.
In a small bowl, combine the topping ingredients: sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly and sprinkle it generously over the batter.
Carefully place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
After cooling, carefully remove the bread from the pan and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This step is essential for the texture and flavor to develop fully.
Once cooled, slice the bread and enjoy it as is, or toast it for an added crunch. It’s delicious with butter or on its own!

Things Worth Knowing

Check for Doneness: Always test your bread with a toothpick inserted into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s done. If it has batter on it, give it more time.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh rhubarb makes a world of difference in flavor. Avoid using wilted or overly soft rhubarb.
Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Don’t Rush Cooling: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This helps maintain its structure and prevents it from becoming gummy.

How to Switch It Up

There are many exciting ways to switch up your Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread experience. Here are some ideas to consider:

Storage: Wrap any leftover bread in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for a few days or refrigerated for longer freshness.
Freezing: You can freeze slices of the bread. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be thawed at room temperature or toasted straight from the freezer.
Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for a delicious dessert option.
Variations: Experiment with adding different fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a twist on the classic recipe. You could also substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestion: Try serving warm, straight from the oven, topped with a bit of butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Serving Options for Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread

When it comes to serving Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread, the options are endless. This delicious loaf is versatile enough for various occasions.

Breakfast: Enjoy it warm with butter and a cup of coffee to kick start your morning.
Brunch: It’s perfect for brunches—slice it and serve alongside a refreshing fruit salad.
Snack Time: Keep it handy as an afternoon snack, either plain or with a light spread of cream cheese.
Gift Idea: Wrap slices as a thoughtful gift for friends or family. Everyone appreciates homemade treats!
Occasions: This bread is great for any gathering, including holiday brunches or casual get-togethers.
Seasonal Serving: Serve it during spring or summer when rhubarb is in season for peak flavor.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb in this Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the batter. This will help maintain the consistency of the bread and prevent it from becoming too watery.

To store leftover Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread, wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It can stay at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for about a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices for later enjoyment.

This bread is wonderfully versatile! You can enjoy it plain, with a smear of butter, or even cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. Whether you serve it for breakfast or as a snack, it’s bound to please everyone.

Absolutely! If you want to make the Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread healthier, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will add some extra fiber and nutrients without compromising the flavor much. Just be aware that it may alter the texture slightly, making it denser.

Conclusion

The Buttermilk Rhubarb Bread is truly a delightful recipe that captures the essence of spring with its vibrant flavors and nostalgic charm. It’s easy to make and perfect for various occasions, making it an ideal choice for breakfast or dessert. I encourage you to give it a try and share it with your loved ones—you won’t regret it!