Rhubarb Crumble
Ingredients
- 2 pounds rhubarb – trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150g)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (16g)
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (210g)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter – cold, cut into small cubes
- custard – for serving

Instructions
- 1.
Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Set a 2-quart baking dish on a rimmed baking sheet.
- 2.
In a large bowl, combine the rhubarb, 0.75 cups granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Toss until the rhubarb is evenly coated, then spread the mixture in the baking dish.
- 3.
In another bowl, add the all-purpose flour. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter and rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs with some pea-sized clumps.
- 4.
Stir the remaining 0.5 cups granulated sugar into the crumb mixture until evenly distributed.
- 5.
Scatter the crumble evenly over the rhubarb without packing it down.
- 6.
Bake until the topping is deep golden and the fruit is bubbling at the edges, 40–45 minutes. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
- 7.
Let the crumble rest for 10 minutes to set the juices. Serve warm with custard (for serving).
Rhubarb crumble is a warmly comforting baked dessert featuring tart rhubarb under a buttery, sandy blanket of sweet crumbs. The filling turns jammy and bright as it bakes, while the topping crisps to a golden, nubbly crust that contrasts the soft fruit. It’s simple to assemble, deeply aromatic straight from the oven, and especially satisfying served warm with cool cream or custard.
This dish is a British staple, emerging as a thrifty alternative to pies during the rationing years of the Second World War. Over time it became a beloved home-cooking classic, adaptable to the seasons and often made with backyard or allotment rhubarb in spring. Today, it remains a fixture in pubs, school dinners, and family tables, commonly paired with custard or cream and celebrated for its straightforward, no-fuss appeal.
