Alberta Edition | Great Canadian Recipe Series

A Sweet Taste of the Canadian Prairies, for generations, rhubarb has thrived in backyard gardens, farmyards, and cottage properties from coast to coast. Whether tucked beside a fence line or growing in Grandma’s garden, this hardy perennial has become a beloved part of Canadian baking traditions. Today, we’re celebrating this iconic ingredient with these irresistible Great Canadian Rhubarb Crumble Cheesecake Bars.

If there’s one ingredient that signals the arrival of spring across Canada, it’s rhubarb. Part of our Great Canadian Recipe Series,

This recipe combines three classic dessert favorites into one unforgettable treat: a buttery shortbread crust, a rich and creamy cheesecake filling, a sweet-tart rhubarb layer, and a golden oat crumble topping.

The result is a dessert that’s rustic enough for a family gathering yet beautiful enough to serve at a special occasion. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and tangy flavors that make rhubarb one of Canada’s most treasured ingredients.

Whether you’re harvesting rhubarb from your garden or picking up a fresh bundle at the local farmers’ market, these cheesecake bars are the perfect way to celebrate rhubarb season.

Why You’ll Love These Bars

• Features one of Canada’s most beloved spring ingredients
• Rich cheesecake filling paired with tart rhubarb
• Buttery shortbread crust
• Crunchy oat crumble topping
• Perfect make-ahead dessert
• Ideal for potlucks, picnics, and summer gatherings
• Beautifully layered and Pinterest-worthy
• Part of our Great Canadian Recipe Series

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How To Make Great Canadian Rhubarb Crumble Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, and melted butter until crumbly.

Press firmly into the prepared pan.

Bake for 12 minutes.

Allow to cool slightly.

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Step 2: Prepare the Rhubarb Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.

Cook for 5–7 minutes until slightly softened and thickened.

Remove from heat and allow to cool.

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Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer

Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.

Add eggs one at a time.

Mix in vanilla and sour cream.

Pour evenly over the cooled crust.

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Step 4: Add the Rhubarb

Spoon the rhubarb mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.

Gently spread without fully mixing the layers.

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Step 5: Prepare the Crumble

Combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.

Cut in cold butter until coarse crumbs form.

Sprinkle evenly over the rhubarb layer.

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Step 6: Bake

Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the cheesecake is set and the crumble is golden brown.

Cool completely.

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

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Step 7: Slice and Serve

Lift from the pan using parchment paper.

Slice into bars and serve chilled.

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Canadian Cooking Adventures Tips

🍁 Choose Fresh Prairie Rhubarb

The brighter the rhubarb stalks, the more vibrant your finished bars will be.

🍁 Don’t Skip the Crumble

The buttery oat topping adds texture and turns these bars into something truly special.

🍁 Chill Overnight

An overnight chill helps the layers set beautifully and makes slicing easier.

🍁 Use a Hot Knife

For clean bakery-style cuts, run your knife under hot water and wipe dry between slices.

🍁 Make Ahead for Gatherings

These bars are even better the next day, making them perfect for entertaining.

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Why We Love Rhubarb in Canada

Few ingredients are as nostalgic as rhubarb. For many Canadians, rhubarb recipes bring back memories of family gardens, summer baking, and homemade desserts shared around the kitchen table.

These Great Canadian Rhubarb Crumble Cheesecake Bars celebrate that tradition while adding a creamy cheesecake twist that today’s dessert lovers can’t resist.

From the Prairies to the Maritimes, rhubarb remains one of Canada’s most cherished ingredients—and this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy every bite of it.

Happy baking!

Canadian Cooking Adventures
Exploring Canada’s culinary traditions one recipe at a time.