Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

Norwegian Rhubarb Cake 🍓🍰

This Norwegian Rhubarb Cake is a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, featuring tender chunks of rhubarb baked into a soft, buttery cake. Perfect for spring or summer when rhubarb is in season, this simple yet elegant dessert is sure to become a favorite. With its vibrant flavor and light dusting of powdered sugar, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious rhubarb cake step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Sweet & Tart : The natural tanginess of rhubarb pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cake.
2. Simple Ingredients : Made with pantry staples and fresh rhubarb—easy to whip up at home.
3. Versatile : Serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with whipped cream or ice cream.
4. Crowd-Pleasing : A hit at brunches, tea parties, or family gatherings.
5. Seasonal Treat : Celebrate rhubarb season with this classic Scandinavian-inspired cake.

Ingredients

(Serves 8–10)

• 2 cups rhubarb , chopped (about 1/2-inch pieces )
• 1 cup granulated sugar , divided (1/4 cup for rhubarb, 3/4 cup for batter )
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter , softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Powdered sugar , for dusting (optional )

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Macerate the Rhubarb

1. In a medium mixing bowl, toss the chopped rhubarb with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar . Let it sit for about 15 minutes to macerate and release some juices.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and the remaining 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes ).

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

1. Beat in the eggs , one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour , baking powder , salt , and ground cinnamon .

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Do not overmix.

Step 7: Fold in the Rhubarb

1. Gently fold the macerated rhubarb into the batter, ensuring it’s evenly distributed but being careful not to crush the rhubarb pieces.

Step 8: Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Dust

1. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes , then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Rhubarb : Look for firm, bright red or pink stalks for the best flavor and appearance. Avoid green rhubarb, which can be more tart.
2. Don’t Overmix : Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake light and tender.
3. Add Toppings : Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of honey for extra indulgence.
4. Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days .
5. Freeze for Later : Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Perfect Pairings

This Norwegian Rhubarb Cake pairs beautifully with:

• Whipped Cream : A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch.
• Vanilla Ice Cream : Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
• Coffee or Tea : Pair with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Fresh Berries : Top with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for added color and flavor.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water or Prosecco for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 10 servings)

• Calories : ~220 kcal
• Protein : ~3g
• Carbohydrates : ~35g
• Fat : ~9g
• Fiber : ~1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Norwegian Rhubarb Cake is a celebration of seasonal rhubarb, combining its signature tartness with a buttery, cinnamon-spiced cake. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or as part of a Scandinavian-inspired spread, this recipe delivers big on flavor and nostalgia. The combination of juicy rhubarb and sweet, tender cake creates a dessert that’s both comforting and exciting.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the toppings, adjust the sweetness, or pair it with different accompaniments to make it your own. So grab your rhubarb, mix up that batter, and get ready to enjoy a cake that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.