Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake is a delightful treat that beautifully balances the sweetness of cake with the tartness of fresh rhubarb. This classic dessert is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, bringing a taste of Norway to your table. With its tender, buttery base and sweet crumb topping, it’s sure to impress family and friends at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery cake and tangy rhubarb creates a delightful flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serve it at room temperature with coffee—perfect for any setting.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Utilizing fresh rhubarb makes this cake a wonderful option for spring and summer gatherings.
• Great for Sharing: With 8 servings, it’s an ideal dessert to bring to potlucks or family get-togethers.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking, gather your kitchen tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish (9-inch round or square)
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without spillage.
• Baking dish: A good-quality dish ensures even baking and easy removal of the cake.
• Pastry cutter or fork: These tools help achieve the right texture in your crumb mixture by cutting butter into flour effectively.

Ingredients

A classic Norwegian dessert featuring a tender, buttery cake topped with tart rhubarb and a sweet crumb topping. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
– 2 cups (250g) fresh rhubarb, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (for topping)
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the flour, 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the cold butter cubes.
3. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3: Combine with Milk

Reserve 1/2 cup of the crumb mixture for later topping. To the remaining mixture:
1. Add the milk gradually.
2. Stir until just combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. Evenly arrange the chopped rhubarb on top of the batter.

Step 5: Add Topping

In a small bowl:
1. Mix the reserved crumb mixture with 1/2 cup sugar and cinnamon (if using).
2. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the rhubarb layer.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow your Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

Serving Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake can enhance its delightful flavors and make it a standout dish at any gathering. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dessert.

Pair with Fresh Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the tartness of the rhubarb.

Top with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream on a warm slice creates a delightful contrast between hot and cold, enhancing every bite.

Serve with a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• A simple sprinkle of powdered sugar elevates the cake’s appearance, adding an elegant touch that’s perfect for special occasions.

Accompany with Fresh Berries

• Fresh strawberries or blueberries can add a burst of flavor and color, making your dessert look even more appetizing.

Enjoy with Greek Yogurt

• For a healthier option, serve slices topped with plain Greek yogurt for added creaminess and protein.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A light drizzle of caramel sauce brings extra sweetness and richness that pairs beautifully with the tart rhubarb.

How to Perfect Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

Perfecting your Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake involves attention to detail in both preparation and baking. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out lovely every time.

• Use fresh rhubarb – Fresh rhubarb will provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid using frozen rhubarb as it can become mushy after baking.
• Chill the butter – Cold butter helps create a flaky texture in the cake. Ensure your butter is cubed and chilled before mixing.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Mix until just combined to keep the cake tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Adjust baking time – Ovens vary; check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time to prevent overbaking.
• Let it cool slightly – Allowing the cake to cool for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to slice.

Best Side Dishes for Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake can enhance its overall appeal. Here are some delightful options that complement this classic dessert.

1. Crisp Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Cheese Platter – A selection of sharp cheeses provides a savory contrast that pairs nicely with the tartness of rhubarb.
3. Roasted Nuts – Warm roasted nuts like almonds or hazelnuts add crunch and richness as a great accompaniment to dessert.
4. Herbed Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks infused with herbs make for an excellent snack alongside slices of cake.
5. Fruit Compote – A warm fruit compote offers additional fruit flavors that harmonize well with rhubarb.
6. Vanilla Pudding – Creamy vanilla pudding enhances each slice’s flavor while adding another layer of sweetness.
7. Coffee or Tea – Serving coffee or tea alongside the cake provides comforting warmth, perfect for enjoying this classic dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking an Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake can be delightful, but some common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using warm butter: Warm or melted butter can lead to a dense cake. Always use cold, cubed butter for a light and fluffy texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can develop gluten, making the cake tough. Stir just until combined for the best results.
• Not measuring rhubarb correctly: Too much rhubarb can make the cake soggy. Ensure you measure 2 cups of chopped rhubarb for perfect balance.
• Skipping the cooling time: Serving the cake immediately can result in a crumbly texture. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing for better structure.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different; starting to check for doneness around 30 minutes is key to avoid overbaking or underbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Short-term storage: The cake can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Container type: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

• Long-term storage: Freeze the cake for up to 3 months.
• Wrapping method: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to heat evenly for about 5-8 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake unique?

This cake is known for its tender buttery base paired with tart rhubarb and sweet crumb topping, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.

Can I use frozen rhubarb in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute fresh rhubarb with frozen. Just thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the batter.

How do I know when my Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake is done?

The cake is ready when it turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Start checking around 35 minutes.

What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

You can customize this recipe by adding nuts, using different fruits like strawberries, or swapping some all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added texture.

Final Thoughts

The Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake is a perfect blend of tartness from rhubarb and sweetness from sugar, making it an ideal dessert for spring and summer gatherings. Its versatility allows you to experiment with various fruits and toppings, making it a staple recipe worth trying. Enjoy this delicious treat with friends and family!

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Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

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Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of fresh rhubarb with a tender, buttery cake and a sweet crumb topping. This classic recipe is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, offering a taste of Norway that will impress your family and friends. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Whether served with vanilla ice cream or paired with coffee, this cake brings comfort and joy to any occasion.

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
3. Reserve some crumb mixture for topping. Add milk to the remaining mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Spread batter into the prepared dish and arrange chopped rhubarb on top.
5. Mix reserved crumb with sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle over rhubarb.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Norwegian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Use fresh rhubarb for the best flavor; frozen can be used but may alter texture. Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake tender. Experiment by adding nuts or swapping fruits for different flavors.