How to Make Rhubarb Crumble: A Classic British Dessert

 

Rhubarb crumble is one of Britain’s most beloved comfort desserts. With its tart rhubarb filling and golden, buttery crumble topping, it strikes the perfect balance between sweet and sharp. Whether served with custard, cream, or ice cream, this simple pudding is a true taste of British home cooking.

--- published by foodie Parmod.

🍓 What Is Rhubarb Crumble?

Rhubarb crumble is a traditional British dessert made by topping stewed rhubarb with a crumbly mixture of flour, sugar, and butter. Once baked, the crumble topping turns golden and crisp, contrasting beautifully with the soft, tangy fruit underneath.

This dessert is a staple of Sunday roasts, school dinners, and family gatherings across the UK. It’s particularly popular when rhubarb is in season, typically from April to July.

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🧁 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the filling:

600g fresh rhubarb, trimmed and chopped

100g caster sugar

Zest of ½ an orange (optional for extra flavour)

For the crumble topping:

150g plain flour

100g unsalted butter (cold and cubed)

75g demerara or light brown sugar

A pinch of ground cinnamon or ginger (optional)

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Rhubarb Crumble

Step 1: Prepare the Rhubarb

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan) / 375°F / Gas Mark 5.

2. Place the chopped rhubarb into a medium saucepan.

3. Add the caster sugar and orange zest (if using).

4. Cook gently over low heat for 5–8 minutes until the rhubarb begins to soften slightly and releases its juices.

5. Pour the stewed rhubarb into a baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping

1. In a mixing bowl, rub the flour and cold butter together using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

2. Stir in the brown sugar and a pinch of spice, if using.

3. Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the rhubarb, making sure to cover the fruit completely.

Step 3: Bake the Crumble

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven.

2. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling around the edges.

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🍽 Serving Suggestions

With Custard: A classic British choice. Hot crumble and cold custard are a match made in heaven.

With Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the tart rhubarb.

With Cream: A drizzle of double cream keeps things simple but indulgent.

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💡 Tips for the Perfect Rhubarb Crumble

Use cold butter for the best crumbly texture.

Don’t overcook the rhubarb on the hob — it should be soft but not mushy.

Add oats or chopped nuts to the topping for extra crunch.

Make it ahead of time — reheat gently in the oven before serving.

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🌿 A Brief History of Rhubarb in British Cooking

Rhubarb has been used in Britain since the 17th century, originally for medicinal purposes. By the Victorian era, it had become a staple in desserts and preserves. Today, rhubarb is a cherished part of British food culture, especially in springtime baking.

The crumble itself became popular during the Second World War as a more economical alternative to pies. It has remained a favourite ever since — thanks to its simplicity, versatility, and unbeatable flavour.

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✅ Conclusion

Rhubarb crumble is everything a comforting pudding should be — warm, sweet, slightly tart, and incredibly moreish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a timeless dessert that brings back fond memories and brings people together around the table.

Whether you’re baking for a Sunday dinner, a spring garden party, or just a quiet night in, this easy rhubarb crumble recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot.

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.

Want more classic British puddings? Explore our recipes for Spotted Dick, Jam Roly-Poly, and Treacle Tart to build your perfect pudding repertoire.