Last updated on May 31, 2025
There’s something truly special about Grandma’s Rhubarb Crisp. This delightful dessert is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a warm hug from the past, bringing back fond memories of family gatherings and lazy summer afternoons. If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of a comforting topping, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into how to make this classic dish that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
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Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Rhubarb Crisp
Grandma’s Rhubarb Crisp is the perfect blend of tart and sweet. The bright, tangy flavor of rhubarb pairs beautifully with a delectable crumbly topping. What’s more? It’s incredibly easy to make and uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive family celebrations. Not only does this dish give you a taste of nostalgia, but it also makes your home smell amazing while baking.
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Grandma’s Rhubarb Crisp
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Grandma’s Rhubarb Crisp is a timeless, comforting dessert featuring tart rhubarb and a buttery, oat-streusel topping. It’s easy to make and perfect for spring or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 cups rhubarb, cut into 3/4 inch pieces
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup flour (for topping)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- Optional Add-Ons:
- Chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the rhubarb with white sugar, 1/4 cup flour, and cinnamon. Spread evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, combine 1 cup flour, brown sugar, oats, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly. Stir in any optional add-ons if using.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the rhubarb mixture.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Let cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh rhubarb for the best texture and tartness.
- You can add strawberries to the rhubarb for a twist on the classic.
- This crisp keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: rhubarb crisp, grandma’s rhubarb dessert, old-fashioned rhubarb crisp, easy fruit crisp, rhubarb oats crumble
Ingredients You’ll Need for Grandma’s Rhubarb Crisp
To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Essential Ingredients
- 8 cups rhubarb, cut into 3/4 inch pieces
- Fresh rhubarb gives the dish its unique tart flavor. Make sure to use firm, bright stalks for the best results.
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- This sugar balances out the tartness of the rhubarb.
- 1/4 cup flour
- This helps to slightly thicken the rhubarb juice as it cooks.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Adds a warm flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- 1 cup flour (for topping)
- A second amount of flour that gives the topping its structure.
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- This adds a deeper sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor to the topping.
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- Provides a hearty texture for the topping.
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- This binds the topping together and adds a rich flavor.



