Moist rhubarb cake with decadent butter sauce is the perfect dessert for any occasion. This delightful treat combines the tartness of fresh rhubarb with a rich, buttery sauce that creates an irresistible flavor explosion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special event, or simply indulging yourself, this cake will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of tangy rhubarb and sweet butter sauce creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm for a cozy evening or chilled as a refreshing summer treat.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or just a delightful weekday dessert.
- Impressive Presentation: The drizzling butter sauce adds an elegant touch that looks stunning on any table.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch square baking pan
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- 9-inch square baking pan: This size ensures even baking and helps the cake rise perfectly.
- Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients helps with organization and efficiency.
- Rubber spatula: A great tool for folding in ingredients without deflating the batter.
Ingredients
Moist rhubarb cake with decadent butter sauce.
For the Cake
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups chopped rhubarb
For the Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Rhubarb Cake Butter Sauce
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking pan. This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly without sticking to the pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This mixture forms the base of your cake.
Step 3: Cream Together Sugar and Butter
In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Beat in one egg and add one teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with 1/2 cup milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Fold in two cups of chopped rhubarb gently to keep it from breaking apart.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Prepare the Butter Sauce
While the cake bakes, combine 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook while stirring until sugar dissolves completely and sauce is smooth. Remove from heat before stirring in one teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, let the cake cool slightly before serving. Drizzle generously with warm butter sauce over each slice for an indulgent treat. Enjoy!
How to Serve Rhubarb Cake Butter Sauce
Serving moist rhubarb cake with a decadent butter sauce can elevate your dessert experience. Whether it’s a family gathering or a special occasion, here are some delightful suggestions to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Warm with Fresh Whipped Cream
- A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the richness of the cake and sauce.
A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
- Serve a warm slice alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast between hot and cold.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle some caramel sauce over the butter sauce before serving.
Garnished with Fresh Mint
- Sprinkling fresh mint leaves on top not only adds color but also a refreshing flavor that brightens the dish.
Accompanied by Berries
- Serve with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity balance that pairs beautifully with rhubarb’s tanginess.
Paired with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoying this dessert with a cup of coffee or tea enhances the flavors and makes it perfect for an afternoon treat.
How to Perfect Rhubarb Cake Butter Sauce
To achieve the best results when making rhubarb cake with butter sauce, consider these helpful tips. They will help you create a dessert that’s both delicious and visually appealing.
Use Fresh Rhubarb: Fresh rhubarb offers better flavor than frozen. Look for vibrant stalks without blemishes.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently fold in ingredients to maintain the cake’s moist texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Avoid overbaking to keep it moist.
Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste, you can reduce sugar in the cake slightly to balance the sweetness of the butter sauce.
Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve while warm. The sauce is most decadent when it’s freshly made.
Best Side Dishes for Rhubarb Cake Butter Sauce
Rhubarb cake pairs well with various side dishes that complement its unique flavor. Here are some sides that can enhance your dessert experience:
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese balances sweetness with savory notes.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and pairs well with rhubarb’s tartness.
Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti provides texture and is perfect for dipping into the buttery sauce.
Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate mousse creates an indulgent contrast, making for an exquisite combination.
Pecan Pie Bars: Nutty pecan pie bars offer additional sweetness and crunch, complementing the soft cake.
Lemon Sorbet: A tangy sorbet cleanses the palate while enhancing the flavors of rhubarb in each bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially when making a moist rhubarb cake with butter sauce. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using old rhubarb: Fresh rhubarb is key for flavor. Check the stalks; they should be firm and vibrant. Old or wilted rhubarb can ruin your cake.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature. This helps them blend better and contributes to a moist texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.
- Not measuring accurately: Use proper measuring tools for flour and sugar. Too much or too little can affect the cake’s structure and taste.
- Skipping the cooling time: Let the cake cool slightly before adding the butter sauce. This prevents the sauce from sinking into the cake and keeps it nicely layered.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover rhubarb cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing Rhubarb Cake Butter Sauce
- Wrap slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. For the butter sauce, store it in an airtight container as well.
Reheating Rhubarb Cake Butter Sauce
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be cautious not to overheat, as this may dry out the cake.
- Stovetop: Warm the butter sauce gently in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?
Yes, frozen rhubarb can be used if thawed first. Drain excess moisture before adding it to your batter.
How do I know when my rhubarb cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready!
What can I serve with Rhubarb Cake Butter Sauce?
This moist rhubarb cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added richness.
How long does Rhubarb Cake Butter Sauce last?
In the refrigerator, leftovers will last up to three days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce is a delightful dessert that combines tangy flavors with a rich buttery finish. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding nuts or spices according to your preference. We encourage you to try this recipe as it’s perfect for any occasion!
SEO Information
Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce
Indulge in the delightful combination of tangy rhubarb and rich butter sauce with this moist Rhubarb Cake. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert features a tender cake enveloped in a decadent buttery drizzle that elevates every bite. Made with fresh ingredients and simple techniques, it’s an ideal choice for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Serve it warm with whipped cream or chilled with ice cream, and watch as it becomes the star of your dessert table. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or enjoying a cozy night in, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy your sweet cravings.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened, divided)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (divided)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups chopped rhubarb
- For the butter sauce: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together remaining sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and add vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients alternating with milk; fold in chopped rhubarb gently.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While baking, prepare the butter sauce by melting remaining butter with sugar and heavy cream over medium heat until smooth; stir in remaining vanilla extract.
- Allow cake to cool slightly before serving; drizzle warm butter sauce over each slice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 298
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 54mg
Keywords: Use fresh rhubarb for the best flavor. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a moist texture. For variations, try adding nuts or spices like cinnamon.
