Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce

Name: Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 4 cups rhubarb, diced; 2 cups milk; 6 tablespoons butter, melted; 1 stick butter (1/2 cup); 1 cup sugar; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans); 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cake or sauce)

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Last updated on June 24, 2025

If you’re looking for a delightful and comforting dessert that perfectly balances the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of cake, then look no further! Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce is a mouth-watering treat that will leave your taste buds dancing. This recipe is not just about baking; it’s an experience that connects you with the seasonality of ingredients and creates memories around the dining table. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a sweet slice during your quiet afternoon, this cake is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce

Rhubarb Cake is a sensational blend of flavors and textures. The moist cake, infused with tangy rhubarb, creates a beautiful contrast when paired with the warm, buttery sauce. The combination is irresistible! Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

Tart Meets Sweet: The rhubarb’s natural tartness complements the sweetness of the cake and the rich butter sauce, making each bite a delightful balance of flavors.
Easy to Make: The steps to prepare this cake are straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced bakers.
Versatile Serving: You can serve this cake warm, at room temperature, or even chilled. It’s perfect for any occasion, can be dressed up or down, and is sure to please all ages.
Nostalgic Comfort Food: There’s something cozy about a slice of rhubarb cake that reminds many people of home and family gatherings.
Great for Meal Prep: This cake stores well, meaning you can bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce:

Before diving into the baking process, it’s important to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients:

4 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the backbone of the cake.
2 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness.
4 teaspoons baking powder: Essential for the cake to rise.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor.
4 cups rhubarb, diced: The star of the show, providing a tangy contrast.
2 cups milk: Adds moisture and richness.
6 tablespoons butter, melted: Provides fat that ensures a tender crumb.

Ingredients for the Butter Sauce:

1 stick butter (1/2 cup): For a rich, buttery flavor.
1 cup sugar: Sweetens the sauce.
3/4 cup heavy cream: Adds creaminess and depth to the sauce.

Optional Add-Ons:

While the basic recipe is fantastic as it is, you might consider these add-ons to elevate your rhubarb cake:

Nuts (like walnuts or pecans): Add crunch and flavor when mixed into the batter.
Spices (such as cinnamon or nutmeg): Spice up the cake for an even warmer taste.
Vanilla extract: A teaspoon adds a lovely aromatic note to both the cake and sauce.

How to Make Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce Step by Step:

Now that you have your ingredients gathered, it’s time to start baking! Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that your cake will bake evenly, giving it that perfect rise and texture.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Make sure these ingredients are well combined to prevent any clumping and ensure even distribution in your cake batter.

Step 3: Add Rhubarb and Wet Ingredients

Next, add:

4 cups diced rhubarb
2 cups milk
6 tablespoons melted butter

Gently stir the mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful to stir just until everything is combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

Step 4: Pour Batter into the Baking Pan

Lightly grease a 9 x 13 inch baking pan. Pour the cake batter evenly into the pan, smoothing out the top with the back of a spoon or spatula.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Place your cake in the preheated oven and let it bake for 45 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready!

Step 6: Cool Down

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Butter Sauce

While your cake is cooling, you can prepare the butter sauce. In a heavy saucepan, combine:

1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup heavy cream

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Let it boil for 1 minute.

Step 8: Finish the Sauce

After boiling, remove the sauce from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly while you slice the cake.

Step 9: Serve

To serve, cut the cake into generous pieces. Drizzle a warm butter sauce over each slice. The cake pairs beautifully with the rich, buttery sauce!

Step 10: Reheat the Sauce

If your sauce cools too much, don’t worry! You can gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce

To take your Rhubarb Cake to the next level, consider the following serving suggestions:

Serve Warm: Enjoy the cake and butter sauce warm for a comforting treat on a chilly day.
Pair with Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream works wonders with warm rhubarb cake, adding a creamy texture and balancing the flavors.
Garnish with Fresh Mint: A sprig of fresh mint adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the rich sauce.
Top with Whipped Cream: For an extra indulgence, top each slice with a dollop of homemade whipped cream.
Drizzle with Extra Sauce: Don’t hold back—generously drizzle extra butter sauce on top of your cake for that delicious, gooey goodness!

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce

To help you achieve the best possible outcome with your Rhubarb Cake, here are some expert tips:

Choose Fresh Rhubarb: Make sure to use fresh rhubarb that’s firm and vibrant. Wilting or soft rhubarb can indicate that it’s past its best.
Measure Accurately: Baking is a science. Be precise with your measurements to ensure the right texture and flavor.
Avoid Overmixing: Once you add the wet ingredients to the dry, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
Check Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary. Always check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.
Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allowing your cake to cool completely helps it set, making slicing cleaner and easier.

Easy Variations for Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce

While the classic Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce is a hit, you can easily switch things up with these fun variations:

Rhubarb Strawberry Cake: Add a cup of diced strawberries to the batter for a fruity twist. The sweet strawberries complement the tart rhubarb perfectly.
Rhubarb Almond Cake: Incorporate almond extract and sliced almonds into the batter for a nutty flavor that elevates the cake.
Coconut-Rhubarb Cake: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical flair. The coconut pairs beautifully with the tartness of the rhubarb.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Leavening Alternatives: For a twist, experiment with different leavening agents like baking soda and vinegar for a different texture.

Storage Tips to Store Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce

If you happen to have leftover Rhubarb Cake, here are some smart storage tips to keep it fresh and delicious:

Room Temperature: Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, transfer any remaining cake to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezing: If you have leftover cake, you can freeze it. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Sauce Storage: Store leftover butter sauce in a separate airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Serve Cold or Reheated: Enjoy the cake cold from the fridge or warm it up for a cozy treat.

Conclusion

Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary adventure that brings the warmth of home cooking to your kitchen. With its perfect blend of flavors and simple preparation, it’s a cake that everyone will love. Whether you share it with friends and family or savor a slice on your own, this dessert promises to deliver joy in every bite. Baking does not have to be complicated, and with this straightforward recipe, you’ll find yourself creating delicious memories time and again. So, get ready to bake, share, and indulge in this incredible Rhubarb Cake!

FAQs About Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce

Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?

Yes, frozen rhubarb can be used! Just thaw it and drain any excess liquid before adding it to your batter.

How do I know if my rhubarb is good to use?

Fresh rhubarb should be firm, crisp, and have a vibrant color. Avoid any that are limp or have brown spots.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. The butter sauce can also be made ahead and reheated.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk as a substitute for heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.

How do I make the cake less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of sugar in the batter by one-half cup to adjust the sweetness level to your liking.

Crafting the perfect Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce is a delightful journey that welcomes you into the world of home baking with open arms. The recipe is forgiving, allowing you to experiment and find the right balance that fits your taste. Happy baking!

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Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce

Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce

Description

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition